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

 
PROCLAMATION 8796--APR. 3, 2012

Proclamation 8796 of April 3, 2012

Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For centuries, the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of character
have driven American progress and enriched our national life. On
Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., we renew our commitment to these


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timeless aspirations, and we rededicate ourselves to fostering in our
sons and daughters inquiring minds and compassionate hearts.
In a global economy where more than half of new jobs will demand higher
education or advanced training, we must do everything we can to equip
our children with the tools for success. Their journey begins early, and
it demands stewardship from throughout the community--from parents and
caregivers who inspire a love of learning to teachers and mentors who
guide our children along the path to achievement. Our Nation's
prosperity grows with theirs, and by ensuring every child has access to
a world class education, we reach for a brighter future for all
Americans.
Yet, we also move forward knowing we cannot secure the promise of
tomorrow through formal education alone. With each generation, our
Nation has confronted questions that tested the quality and character of
our people. We have borne witness to seemingly insurmountable problems
of inequality, oppression, or dire circumstance at home and abroad, and
where we have recognized injustice, the way forward has not always been
clear. Time and again, during moments of trial, Americans have
demonstrated a fundamental commitment to compassion, cooperation, and
goodwill toward others--doing not what is easy, but what is right. These
qualities have come to define us, and as we prepare today's students to
become tomorrow's leaders, let us nourish in them the virtues that have
sustained our country for generations.
On Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., we reflect on the teachings of
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who embodied
that humanitarian spirit. As a tireless advocate for youth around the
world, he inspired millions to lift the cause of education, to practice
kindness and generosity, and to aspire toward their highest ideals. His
enduring legacy lives on in those he touched, and today, we resolve to
carry forward his dedication to service and scholarship.
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 April 3, 2012, as
Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A. I call upon all Americans to observe
this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of April,
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