    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8516--MAY 7, 2010

    Proclamation 8516 of May 7, 2010
    National Women's Health Week, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    In recent decades, our Nation has made extraordinary progress in
    promoting women's health issues. However, far too many women remain
    underserved and we must continue working to ensure all women can access
    medical services, receive fair treatment, and make healthy choices.
    During National Women's Health Week, we recommit to breaking existing
    barriers and improving the health of American women for generations to
    come.
    Many American women face significant obstacles in caring for themselves
    and their families. That is why my Administration fought tirelessly to
    pass the Affordable Care Act, which I recently signed into law. This
    landmark legislation gives Americans greater control over their health
    care decisions and access to affordable and equitable insur-

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    ance. It lowers costs for women and prohibits insurance companies from
    overcharging because of gender or denying coverage due to a pre-existing
    condition. The Affordable Care Act also requires that new health care
    plans cover preventive care, routine screenings, and regular checkups,
    as well as basic pediatric services for children. These services are
    vital to maintaining individual well-being, and empower women when
    making choices for themselves and their families. Visit HealthReform.gov
    to learn more about how the Affordable Care Act benefits Americans
    across the country.
    We have taken steps to provide access to high-quality, affordable health
    care, but individuals must also lead healthy lives and set a good
    example for their children. From scheduling regular medical examinations
    to applying sunscreen, simple, everyday activities can make a positive
    impact on the lives of women. Regular exercise, coupled with a
    nutritious diet, helps prevent heart disease, obesity, and other chronic
    conditions. Visit WomensHealth.gov and GirlsHealth.gov for more
    information and resources on women's health issues. I also encourage
    Americans to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Administration/EOP/CWG to learn
    about the White House Council on Women and Girls--a body I created to
    bring women's issues to the forefront, and to emphasize women's roles as
    full partners in shaping and implementing our Nation's policies.
    The health of American women and girls is not just a women's issue; all
    Americans have a vested interest. Women are the foundation of many
    families, and by encouraging their wellness, we also promote the
    vitality of our children and our communities. By standing firm in our
    commitment to improve women's health, we can give our daughters and
    granddaughters--and all Americans--a brighter future.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9-15, 2010, as
    National Women's Health Week. I encourage all Americans to celebrate the
    progress we have made in protecting women's health and promote
    prevention, awareness, and educational activities that improve the
    health of all women.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May,
    in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the
    United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA