[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 119, 109th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7907--JUNE 1, 2005

[[Page 3755]]
119 STAT. 3755

Proclamation 7907 of June 1, 2005
Black Music Month, 2005
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
During Black Music Month, we pay tribute to a rich musical tradition and
honor the many contributions African-American musicians, singers, and
composers have made to the culture of our Nation and to the world. This
powerful, moving, and soulful music speaks to every heart, lifting us in
times of sorrow and helping us celebrate in times of joy.
Black music's origins are found in the work songs and spirituals that
bore witness to the cruelty of bondage and the strength of faith. In the
strains of those songs, we hear the voice of hope in the face of
injustice. From those roots, black music has grown into a diverse
collection of styles, and it continues to evolve today. Black music
captures a part of the American spirit and continues to have a profound
impact on our country.
This month is an opportunity to reflect upon the achievements of
African-American artists and to look forward to the future. We remember
Robert Johnson, Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Ray
Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and countless others for their
love of music and their pioneering and passionate spirit. We celebrate
today's musicians who continue to build upon the rich and vital heritage
of black music.
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 2005 as Black Music
Month. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the history of
black music and to enjoy the great contributions of African-American
musicians.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of June,
in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH