[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 128, 113th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 9166--SEPT. 12, 2014

Proclamation 9166 of September 12, 2014

National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2014

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Nearly 50 years after the United States first observed what was then
National Hispanic Heritage Week, Hispanics represent a vibrant and
thriving part of our diverse Nation. Their histories and cultures
stretch across centuries, and the contributions of those who come to our
shores today in search of their dreams continue to add new chapters in
our national story. This month, we honor the rich heritage of the
Hispanic community and celebrate its countless achievements.
This month's theme, ``Hispanics: A legacy of history, a present of
action and a future of success,'' reminds us of all the ways Hispanics
have enriched our Union and shaped our character. From those with roots
that trace back generations to those who have just set out in pursuit of
the promise of America, they have come to represent the spirit of our
Nation: that with hard work, you can build a better life for yourself
and a better future for your children. Hispanics have served honorably
in our Armed Forces, defending the values we hold dear. They have
transformed industries with new, innovative ideas. And they have led and
inspired movements that have made our Nation more equal and more just.
In these accomplishments, we recognize that when we lift up the Hispanic
community, we strengthen our Nation; when we create more ladders of
opportunity, we provide the chance for all Americans to reach their
greatest potential. My Administration is committed to supporting and
fighting for policies that help Hispanics succeed. We are investing in
programs that better prepare students and workers for today's economy,
continuing to address disparities in health care, and pushing
initiatives that grow our middle class.
Reforming our immigration system remains crucial for our economic
future. When workers educated in America are unable to stay and innovate
here, we are deprived of their full contributions, and when immigrants
have to labor in the shadows, they often earn unfair wages and their
families and our economy suffer. That is why I continue to call on the
Congress to enact comprehensive immigration reform, and why I am
determined to address our broken immigration system through executive
action in a way that is sustainable and effective, and within the
confines of the law.
America has always drawn its strength from the contributions of a
diverse people. Throughout our Nation, Hispanics are advancing our
economy, improving our communities, and bettering our country. During
National Hispanic Heritage Month, let us renew our commitment to
ensuring ours remains a society where the talents and potential of all
its members can be fully realized.
To honor the achievements of Hispanics in America, the Congress by
Public Law 100-402, as amended, has authorized and requested the
President to issue annually a proclamation designating September 15
through October 15 as ``National Hispanic Heritage Month.''

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NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim September 15 through October 15, 2014, as
National Hispanic Heritage Month. I call upon public officials,
educators, librarians, and all Americans to observe this month with
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.
BARACK OBAMA