[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8774--JAN. 13, 2012

Proclamation 8774 of January 13, 2012

Religious Freedom Day, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For nearly four centuries, men and women have immigrated to America's
shores in pursuit of religious freedom. Hailing from diverse backgrounds
and faiths, countless settlers have shared a simple aspiration--to
practice their beliefs free from prejudice and persecution. In 1786, the
Virginia General Assembly took a bold step toward preserving this
fundamental liberty by passing the Virginia Statute for Religious
Freedom, which brought to life the ideal of religious tolerance from the
texts of the Enlightenment in the laws of state. On Religious Freedom
Day, we celebrate this historic milestone, reflect upon the Statute's
declaration that ``Almighty God hath created the mind free,'' and
reaffirm that the American people will remain forever unshackled in
matters of faith.
Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the Virginia Statute formed the basis for
the First Amendment, which has preserved religious freedom for both
believers and non-believers for over 220 years. As our Nation has grown,
so too has its diversity of faiths, cultures, and traditions; today,
individuals of rich and varied beliefs call America home and seek to
follow their consciences in peace. Our long history of religious
tolerance and pluralism has strengthened our country, helped create a
vibrant civil society, and remained true to the principles enshrined in
our founding documents.
Our Nation is committed to religious liberty not only for all Americans,
but also for individuals around the world. Internationally, we bear
witness to those who live in fear of violence and discrimination because
of their beliefs. My Administration continues to stand with all who are
denied the ability to choose, express, or live their faith freely, and
we remain dedicated to protecting this universal human right and the
vital role it plays in ensuring peace and stability for all nations.
Today, as we reflect on the many ways religious freedom enriches our
country and our lives, let us lend our voice to all people striving to
exercise their innate right to a free mind.
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 January 16, 2012, as
Religious Freedom Day. I call on all Americans to commemorate this day
with events and activities that teach us about this critical foundation
of our Nation's liberty, and show us how we can protect it for future
generations at home and around the world.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of
January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA