[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 19 (Monday, May 15, 2000)]
[Pages 1057-1058]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Proclamation 7305--Mother's Day, 2000

May 10, 2000

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    We are living in a new century and a new age, where the revolution 
in communications technology is changing almost every aspect of human 
experience. But even in this new era of global connections, there is 
perhaps no more powerful link than the love between mother and child.
    That bond is a child's first experience of the world, and that love 
is often the deepest source of the self-esteem, courage, and character 
that children need to thrive. Mothers are their children's first 
teachers; they are their inspiring role models whose generosity, 
compassion, and unconditional acceptance give children the strength and 
encouragement to reach their fullest potential and to make their own 
contributions to their families, communities, and country.
    Even in this age of spectacular technological advances, mothers 
still face the daunting challenges of balancing the responsibilities of 
home and work and meeting the changing emotional, educational, and 
physical needs of their children. Mothers strive to provide a safe and 
nurturing environment. They help their children navigate the often 
stormy waters of an increasingly complicated world. They teach their 
children to approach conflict with words, not violence; to cherish the 
richness of our diversity and reject prejudice in any form; and to 
believe in themselves.
    Each year we set aside this special day to acknowledge all that our 
mothers--whether biological or foster, adoptive or stepmothers--have 
given us. It is a time to reflect on all we have gained from their 
unwavering care, guidance, and sacrifice, and a time to express openly 
our deep gratitude and abiding love. The Congress, by a joint resolution 
approved May 8, 1914 (38 Stat. 770), has designated the second Sunday in 
May of each year as ``Mother's Day'' and requested the President to call 
for its appropriate observance.
     Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton,  President of the United 
States of America, do hereby proclaim May 14, 2000, as Mother's Day. 
Whether we are able to share this special day with our mothers in person 
or are blessed only with our memories of their love, in our hearts they 
remain with us always. I urge all Americans to express their love and 
respect for their mothers on this day, to speak the words of 
appreciation we too often neglect to say, and to observe this day with 
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
     In Witness Whereof,  I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of 
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of 
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth.
                                            William J. Clinton

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:29 a.m., May 11, 
2000]

 Note:  This proclamation was published in the  Federal Register  on May 
12.

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