[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 131, 115th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9669 of October 31, 2017

National Native American Heritage Month, 2017

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

American Indians and Alaska Natives are inextricably linked with the
history of the United States. Beginning with the Pilgrims' arrival at
Plymouth Colony and continuing until the present day, Native American's
contributions are woven deeply into our Nation's rich tapestry. During
National Native American Heritage Month, we honor and celebrate the
first Americans and recognize their contributions and sacrifices.
Native Americans have influenced every stage of America's development.
They helped early European settlers survive and thrive in a new land.
They contributed democratic ideas to our constitutional Framers. And,
for more than 200 years, they have bravely answered the call to defend
our Nation, serving with distinction in every branch of the United
States Armed Forces. The Nation is grateful for the service and
sacrifice of all American Indians and Alaska Natives.
My Administration is committed to tribal sovereignty and self-
determination. A great Nation keeps its word, and this Administration
will continue to uphold and defend its responsibilities to American
Indians and Alaska Natives. The United States is stronger when Indian
Country is healthy and prosperous. As part of our efforts to strengthen
American Indian and Alaska Native communities, my Administration is
reviewing regulations that may impose unnecessary costs and burdens.
This aggressive regulatory reform, and a focus on government-to-
government consultation, will help revitalize our Nation's commitment to
Indian Country.
In addition to adopting policies to enhance economic well-being of
Native American communities, my Administration will always come to the
aid of Native American people in times of crisis. In the wake of
Hurricane Irma, I signed the first Presidential Emergency Declaration
for a tribal nation. We will ensure the Seminole Tribe of Florida has
access to the resources it needs to rebuild. As part of our American
family, Native Americans will never be left behind under this
Administration. Together, we will strengthen the relationship between
the United States Government and Native Americans.
Native Americans are a testament to the deep importance of culture and
vibrancy of traditions, passed down throughout generations. This month,
I encourage all of our citizens to learn about the rich history and
culture of the Native American people.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 Novem

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ber 2017 as National Native American Heritage Month. I call upon all
Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and
activities and to celebrate November 25, 2017, as Native American
Heritage Day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
second.
DONALD J. TRUMP