[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8300--OCT. 3, 2008

Proclamation 8300 of October 3, 2008
Child Health Day, 2008
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Americans have a duty to promote the health and safety of our children.
On Child Health Day, we affirm that all children are a precious gift,
and we underscore our commitment to helping them realize their full
potential.
Families are the foundation of our society, and parents play the vital
role of providing stability, guidance, and discipline so children can
lead healthy lives. Teachers, caregivers, and mentors can also help
teach children about the importance of making good choices. All
Americans can help our Nation's youth become healthy and respon





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sible adults by encouraging them to avoid risky behaviors such as early
sexual activity, drugs, alcohol, and violence.
My Administration remains dedicated to helping younger generations
achieve their dreams by supporting programs that encourage children to
maintain healthy and active lifestyles. The Helping America';s Youth
initiative, led by First Lady Laura Bush, is helping children make smart
decisions so they can confront challenges and live longer and better
lives. The HealthierUS initiative encourages positive habits and
addresses public health issues facing our Nation's youth, such as
childhood obesity. Through the President's Challenge, we are promoting
personal fitness and encouraging youth to stay active beyond the school
gym. Through these and other efforts, we can make our country stronger
by teaching children the importance of healthy choices.
The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 18, 1928, as amended
(36 U.S.C. 105), has called for the designation of the first Monday in
October as ``Child Health Day'' and has requested the President to issue
a proclamation in observance of this day.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim Monday, October 6, 2008, as Child Health
Day. I call upon families, schools, child health professionals, faith-
based and community organizations, and State and local governments to
reach out to our Nation's young people, encourage them to avoid
dangerous behavior, and help them make the right choices to achieve
their dreams.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
GEORGE W. BUSH