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

 
PROCLAMATION 8879--OCT. 1, 2012

Proclamation 8879 of October 1, 2012

National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Every day, far too many Americans are hurt by alcohol and drug abuse.
From diminished achievement in our schools, to greater risks on our
roads and in our communities, to the heartache of lives cut tragically
short, the consequences of substance abuse are profound. Yet, we also
know that they are preventable. This month, we pay tribute to all those
working to prevent substance abuse in our communities, and we rededicate
ourselves to building a safer, drug-free America.
By stopping drug use before it starts, we can prevent the disease of
addiction and create stronger neighborhoods across our country. My
Administration has placed prevention at the heart of our National Drug
Control Strategy, promoting a balanced approach that advances evidence-
based public health and safety reforms. We have invested in outreach
programs that empower young Americans with the facts about substance
abuse, and we have worked to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse
through education, monitoring, proper disposal, and enforcement. We have
also worked to develop a nationwide, community-based prevention system
that joins stakeholders at every level of government with local
organizations that can deliver local solutions.
All of us can play a role in preventing drug and alcohol abuse. As our
children's first teachers, parents and guardians can help by talking to
their kids about the dangers of substance abuse. Alongside them,
coalitions of teachers, faith-based groups, health care providers, law
enforcement officials, and other local leaders are joining together to
address substance abuse in their communities. As we observe National
Substance Abuse Prevention Month, let us join in those vital efforts and
reaffirm our vision for an America where each of us has the fullest
opportunity to live in health and happiness.
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 October 2012 as
National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon all Americans to
engage in appropriate programs and activities to promote comprehensive
substance abuse prevention efforts within their communities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA