[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