[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 32, Number 29 (Monday, July 22, 1996)]
[Pages 1290-1291]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6909--Captive Nations Week, 1996

July 18, 1996

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    This year marks the 38th commemoration of Captive Nations Week--a 
national expression of solidarity and support for all those around the 
globe who suffer the harshness of oppressive rule. Democracy and human 
rights have made great advances in recent years, thanks to the 
courageous efforts of determined men and women. Yet, despite these 
strides, far too many people throughout the world live without the 
benefits of freedom. As this century draws to a close, we must remember 
the millions who still live in fear and the countless children denied 
the prospect of a bright future by authoritarian regimes.
    The United States' commitment to liberty has ensured over 200 years 
of justice and individual rights for our citizens. We have worked hard 
to realize our founders' vision of independence, and we cherish our 
proud history of offering support and encouragement to others who share 
that dream. In this post-Cold War era, when ethnic, racial, and 
religious conflicts pose new challenges to the global community, we must 
honor that legacy and continue to build a future of international 
stability and peace.
    This week and throughout the year, let us rededicate ourselves to 
the promotion of liberty and universal human rights for those who suffer 
under the yoke of tyranny in other lands. The United States will 
continue to champion political freedom for all races, religions, creeds, 
and nationalities, pledging to keep faith with people everywhere who 
cherish the fundamental values that Americans have always held dear.
    The Congress, by Joint Resolution approved July 17, 1959 (73 Stat. 
212), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation 
designating the third week in July of each year as ``Captive Nations 
Week.''
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United 
States of America, do hereby proclaim July 21 through July 27, 1996, as 
Captive Nations Week. I call upon the people of the United States to 
observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities celebrating 
the principles on which this Nation was established and by which it will 
forever prosper.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day 
of July, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of 
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twenty-first.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., July 22, 
1996]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on July 19, and it will be published in the Federal Register 
on July 23.

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