[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 132, 115th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9808 of October 19, 2018

National Character Counts Week, 2018

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

America is improved every day by men and women of great character and
integrity who understand that a responsible citizenry is needed to
ensure the independence and prosperity of our Nation. The Founders
cherished opportunities to grow, including those that require one to
experience, learn from, and overcome hardship. In difficult times, the
American spirit is tested and defined by the character of its citizens
and leaders. We have withstood this test time and time again. During
National Character Counts Week, we recognize that our Nation's continued
success depends on the American people's courageous resolve to remain
united through times of both triumph and tragedy. We also pledge to
foster good character in our communities and encourage children to form
constructive habits.
Character is nurtured in our families and communities. Parents and
guardians have the unique responsibility to teach young people valuable
traits, such as perseverance, courage, respect, and hard work. Teachers
as well as civic and church leaders also play an integral role in
helping our children adopt habits of good behavior. Good examples set by
mentors empower youth to make smart choices that ultimately define them
as individuals and us as a Nation. Every American should strive to live
by example and never stop improving their character.
Strong families, church communities, and civic organizations have a
significant effect on the positive development of our youth. By
empowering these strong networks, my Administration is encouraging them
to help our youth to do their very best, learn from mistakes, and become
leaders. First Lady Melania Trump's BE BEST initiative is improving the
lives of young people by championing evidence-based programs that help
our communities focus on the emotional, social, and physical well-being
of our children. As social media and technology provide more
opportunities for children to communicate with each other, their ability
to influence others and be a force for good also expands.
This week, especially, we refocus our efforts to be good examples--to
our Nation's youth and each other--and to promote acts of service and
leadership. We also express our gratitude to parents, guardians,
teachers, civic and church leaders, and mentors for their vital work in
raising children of strong character and integrity.

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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 October 21 through
October 27, 2018, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public
officials, educators, parents, students, and all Americans to observe
this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
third.
DONALD J. TRUMP