    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7693 of July 25, 2003

    Parents' Day, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Children are a daily reminder of the blessings and responsibilities of
    life and a source of joy, pride, and fulfillment. Parents, stepparents,
    adoptive parents, and foster parents have the important responsibility
    of providing for, protecting, nurturing, teaching, and loving their
    children. On Parents' Day, we honor America's mothers and fathers and
    celebrate the values that bind families from one generation to the next
    and help define us as a Nation.
    As a child's first teachers, parents are the most influential and
    effective instructors in a child's life. Through their words, actions,
    and sacrifices, parents are living examples for children. Young boys and
    girls watch their parents closely and imitate their behavior. Parents
    play a critical role in instilling responsibility, integrity, and other
    life lessons that shape the lives of America's future leaders.
    My Administration is committed to supporting our Nation's families. We
    are working with faith-based and community organizations to promote
    healthy marriages, responsible parenting, and education. And we are
    committed to fully funding and supporting the Promoting Safe and Stable
    Families Program, which helps strengthen family bonds, promote adoption,
    and provide help for vulnerable children across our country.
    Volunteer service is one way parents can spend time with their children
    while encouraging them to learn the value of helping others. The USA
    Freedom Corps' ``How I Spent My Summer'' initiative includes volunteer
    opportunities where parents and children can work together to meet the
    needs of their communities. This initiative offers ideas such as
    collecting food for local food banks or school supplies for children in
    need. In addition, families can volunteer at one of our Nation's parks
    or recreation areas creating trails, assisting with archeological digs,
    or building and restoring houses. Teaching by example, parents can help
    their children become responsible citizens.
    Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging endeavors in
    life. On this special day, we recognize the hard work and compassion of
    America's parents and celebrate the mothers and fathers who are positive
    role models for their children. I encourage parents to spend more time
    reading, talking, and volunteering with their children. I also urge
    parents to share the joys and wisdom of parenthood with new families in
    their communities and those planning families for the future.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con

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    stitution and laws of the United States and consistent with Public Law
    103-362, as amended, do hereby proclaim Sunday, July 27, 2003, as
    Parents' Day. I encourage all Americans to express their respect and
    appreciation to parents everywhere for their contributions to their
    children, families, communities, and our Nation. I also call upon
    citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and
    activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of
    July, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    eighth.
    GEORGE W. BUSH