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

 
PROCLAMATION 8550--AUG. 31, 2010

Proclamation 8550 of August 31, 2010
National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2010
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Each day brings new opportunities for personal growth, renewal, and
transformation to millions of Americans who have chosen to forge a path
toward recovery from addiction to drugs or alcohol. While addic-

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tion can destroy self-confidence, family ties, and friendships, recovery
can restore the promise of a brighter tomorrow. During National Alcohol
and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, we express support for those living
healthy and productive lives in long-term recovery, we applaud those
working to help struggling Americans break the cycle of abuse, and we
encourage those in need to seek help.
This year's theme, ``Join the Voices for Recovery: Now More Than
Ever!,'' calls us to an urgent mission--to save lives from the hazards
of addiction. As we make quality and affordable health care more
accessible to all Americans, we also resolve to build a healthier Nation
by increasing access to treatment and recovery programs in our health
care system. To help achieve this goal, the Affordable Care Act supports
services available to address addiction. Together, we can reduce the
harmful consequences of untreated addiction, such as violence, failure
in school, job loss, child abuse, crimes, and death. I encourage all
Americans to visit RecoveryMonth.gov for more resources and information.
The journey to recovery requires great fortitude and a supportive
network. As we celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery
Month, we also express our appreciation for the family members, mutual
aid groups, peer support programs, health professionals, and community
leaders that provide compassion, care, and hope. Across America, we must
spread the word that substance abuse is preventable, that addiction is
treatable, and that recovery is possible.
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 September 2010 as
National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. I call upon all
Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies,
and activities, and to celebrate the lives freed from addiction to
illicit drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
August, 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