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

Proclamation 7724 of October 18, 2003
 
National Character Counts Week, 2003

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Many of our society's most cherished values, such as equal treatment for
fellow citizens and respect for the law, depend in practice on
individual character. During National Character Counts Week, we
recognize the importance that good character has played in our history,
celebrate the great character exhibited by our citizens, and reaffirm
our commitment to promoting the values that will ensure a better future
for all.
Throughout history, we see numerous examples of character in action.
Great social reformers like Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and
Susan B. Anthony demonstrated courage and resolve when they stood firm
in the face of injustice and acted to right societal wrongs. Similarly,
leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt, were able to guide
our Nation through critical periods because of their strong personal
convictions and sense of moral clarity. Today, these and other heroes of
history inspire us to pursue virtue and character in our own lives.
Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we have seen the
great character of our Nation in the hearts and souls of our citizens
and soldiers, and in countless acts of kindness, generosity, and
sacrifice. To sustain this spirit and continue to improve our society,
we must promote a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in
our Nation. Through the USA Freedom Corps, my Administration is offering
opportunities for citizens to give back to their communities, helping
millions of Americans meet vital needs as active and engaged citizens in
our democratic society.
The development of character and citizenship has always been a primary
goal of America's schools. Today, it is more important than ever that we
educate our young people to be knowledgeable, compassionate, and
involved citizens of a free society. Since 2002, 47 State education
agencies and local school districts have received grants to implement
character education programs. These grants help schools work with

[[Page 3105]]
117 STAT. 3105

students, parents, and community organizations to effectively teach
universal values such as respect, honesty, and tolerance.
This week, I urge all Americans to join me in promoting good character
in America. By teaching these values to our children and living by these
values in our own lives, we can build a future of hope, compassion, and
opportunity for all.
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 October 19 through October
25, 2003, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public
officials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all the people
of the United States to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies,
activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of
October, 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