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

    Proclamation 7687 of June 24, 2003

    Black Music Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    For centuries, black artists have created or inspired distinctively
    American musical styles. During Black Music Month, we celebrate the ways
    that African-American music has helped shape American society and
    reflect the character of our Nation, and we recognize the pioneers who
    spearheaded these important musical forms.
    Throughout history, African-American music has shown the social climate
    of the time. From the days of slavery and discrimination, through the
    progress of the Civil Rights movement, to today, black music has told
    the story of the African-American experience. In addition to giving
    voice to black struggles, faith, and joys, African-American music has
    helped also to bring people together. Before our Nation's strides toward
    equal justice, music such as jazz and blues provided a venue in which
    people of all races could be judged by their talent, and not the color
    of their skin.
    The people who sang the earliest African-American music knew the worst
    of human cruelty and earthly injustice. In spirituals, work songs, and
    shouts, we hear the pain of separation and the bitterness of oppression.
    We also hear courage, and the comfort and strength of a faith that
    trusts God to right every wrong and wipe away every tear. These songs
    were used to share stories, spread ideas, preserve history, and
    establish community.
    Early work songs and spirituals laid the creative foundation for the
    development of gospel, blues, and jazz. In black churches throughout the
    south, gospel offered a medium to share the good news. The beauty of
    both gospel and the blues lies in their power to express emotions that
    can be felt as well as heard. The blues were first popularized in
    America by W.C. Handy. A classically trained musician, this ``Father of
    the Blues'' helped to compose and distribute blues music throughout the
    country. His music continues to touch people today.
    In the early 20th century, the progression to jazz took place all over
    the country, from the deep south of New Orleans and the Mississippi
    Delta to northern cities such as Chicago and New York. Black artists
    migrated to Harlem, New York in large numbers, creating a culturally
    diverse hub for black art, writing, and music known as the Harlem
    Renaissance. Harlem became a place of energy and magic, and timeless
    music emerged from this period. The heart of the Harlem Renaissance is
    reflected in the original and authentic music of such influential
    figures as Bessie Smith, Count Basie, and Fletcher Henderson.

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    African Americans continued to influence popular music through the 1940s
    and 50s, with the emergence of rhythm and blues and rock and roll. These
    revolutionary styles built upon various forms of African-American music,
    fusing elements of jazz, blues, and gospel.
    African-American music continues to influence the American music scene
    today with styles such as rap and hip-hop. As we celebrate the many
    creative and inspiring African-American artists whose efforts have
    enhanced our Nation, we recognize their enduring legacy and look to a
    future of continued musical achievement.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2003 as Black Music
    Month. I encourage Americans of all backgrounds to learn more about the
    heritage of black musicians, and to celebrate the remarkable role they
    have played in our history and culture.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day
    of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    seventh.
    GEORGE W. BUSH