[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 130, 114th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9515 of October 5, 2016

German-American Day, 2016

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For centuries, German immigrants have ventured to American shores for
the same reasons as so many others--to pursue new lives in a land of
opportunity and forge brighter futures for themselves and their
families. These immigrants and their descendants have changed the course
of our history and paved our country's path of progress, and on German-
American Day, we recognize their role in building a stronger and more
prosperous Nation for all our people.
From those who were among our earliest settlers and farmers to today's
innovative leaders in business and public service, German Americans have
shaped every sector of our society. More Americans can trace their roots
to Germany than to any other nation, and elements of German heritage are
embedded deeply in our country's character. German Americans have,
throughout our history, proven that our diversity is one of our greatest
strengths, and that no matter where we come from, as Americans we are
united by the ideal that we are all created equal.
Today, the alliance between the United States and Germany is one of the
closest the world has ever known. Our cooperation in striving to protect
the security and sustainability of our planet is guided by the enduring
friendship between our citizens and the experiences and values that bind
us together. On this occasion, let us honor the achievements of German
Americans by renewing our devotion to beliefs borne out of common
experience--by creating opportunity that lifts up not just the few but
the many, and by affirming the inherent dignity and equality of every
human being.
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 6, 2016, as
German-American Day. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the
history of German Americans and reflect on the many contributions they
have made to our Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
first.
BARACK OBAMA