[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8990--MAY 31, 2013

Proclamation 8990 of May 31, 2013

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
For centuries, the United States and nations in the Caribbean have grown
alongside each other as partners in progress. Separated by sea but
united by a yearning for independence, our countries won the right to
chart their own destinies after generations of colonial rule. Time and
again, we have led the way to a brighter future together--from lifting
the stains of slavery and segregation to widening the circle of
opportunity for our sons and daughters.
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate those
enduring achievements. It is also a chance to recognize men and women
who trace their roots to the Caribbean. Through every chapter of our
Nation's history, Caribbean Americans have made our country stronger--
reshaping our politics and reigniting the arts, spurring our movements
and answering the call to serve. Caribbean traditions have enriched our
own, and woven new threads into our cultural fabric. Again and again,
Caribbean immigrants and their descendants have reaffirmed America's
promise as a land of opportunity--a place where no matter who you are or
where you come from, you can make it if you try.
Together, as a Nation of immigrants, we will keep writing that story.
And alongside our partners throughout the Caribbean, we will keep
working to achieve inclusive economic growth, access to clean and
affordable energy, enhanced security, and lasting opportunity for all
our people. As we honor Caribbean Americans this month, let us
strengthen the ties that bind us as members of the Pan American
community, and let us resolve to carry them forward in the years ahead.
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 June 2013 as National
Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I encourage all Americans to
celebrate the history and culture of Caribbean Americans with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA