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

    PROCLAMATION 8541--JULY 16, 2010

    Proclamation 8541 of July 16, 2010
    Captive Nations Week, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    In 1959, President Eisenhower issued the first Captive Nations
    Proclamation in solidarity with those living without personal or
    political autonomy behind the Iron Curtain. Since that time, once-
    captive nations have broken free to establish civil liberties, open
    markets, and allow their people access to information. However, even as
    more nations have embraced self-governance and basic human rights, there
    remain regimes that use violence, threats, and isolation to suppress the
    aspirations of their people.

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    The Cold War is over, but its history holds lessons for us today. In the
    face of cynicism and stifled opportunity, the world saw daring
    individuals who held fast to the idea that the world can change and
    walls could come down. Their courageous struggles and ultimate success--
    and the enduring conviction of all who keep the light of freedom alive--
    remind us that human destiny will be what we make of it.
    The journey towards worldwide freedom and democracy sought in 1959
    remains unfinished. Today, we still observe the profound differences
    between governments that reflect the will of their people, and those
    that sustain power by force; between nations striving for equal justice
    and rule of law, and those that deny their citizens freedom of religion,
    expression, and peaceful assembly; and between states that are open and
    accountable, and those that restrict the flow of ideas and information.
    The United States has a special responsibility to bear witness to those
    whose voices are silenced, and to stand alongside those who yearn to
    exercise their universal human rights.
    In partnership with like-minded governments, we must reinforce
    multilateral institutions and international partnerships that safeguard
    human rights and democratic values. We must empower embattled civil
    societies and help their people connect with one another and the global
    community through new technologies. And, with faith in the future, we
    must always stand with the courageous advocates, organizations, and
    ordinary citizens around the world who fearlessly fight for limitless
    opportunity and unfettered freedom.
    The Congress, by Joint Resolution, approved July 17, 1959 (73 Stat.
    212), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation
    designating the third week of July of each year as ``Captive Nations
    Week.''
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim July 18 through July 24, 2010, as Captive
    Nations Week. I call upon the people of the United States to reaffirm
    our deep commitment to all those working for human rights and dignity
    around the globe.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of
    July, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence
    of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA