[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 19 (Monday, May 13, 2002)]
[Pages 755-756]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7556--National Tourism Week, 2002

 May 6, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    For hundreds of years, people across our Nation and around the world 
have enjoyed traveling across America to visit our magnificent cities, 
parks, museums, and countless other natural, historic, and cultural 
sites. Our land provides endless opportunities to learn as well as to 
enjoy our Nation's immense variety of attractions.
    The travel and tourism industry represents a vital part of the 
American economy. The Department of Commerce estimates that in 2001 the 
travel and tourism industry generated more than $90 billion in export 
revenue and provided a $7.7 billion balance of trade surplus. 
Preliminary numbers show that last year, the industry created 
approximately $545 billion in total travel expenditures and provided $94 
billion in tax revenue to local, State, and Federal governments. As one 
of our Nation's largest employers, travel and tourism supports more than 
7 million jobs.
    During National Tourism Week 2002, we recognize the significance of 
this important industry to our economy and for the lives of all 
Americans. In the aftermath of the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, 
the travel and tourism industry contributed to our country's efforts to 
persevere through this challenging time. As we have encouraged people to 
resume the regular course of their lives, Americans and visitors from 
around the world have responded by traveling to and enjoying the beauty 
of our Nation.
    During this observance, I urge all Americans and people around the 
globe to travel to and within our country to experience the hospitality 
and quality of our Nation's great destinations.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 5-11, 2002, as 
National Tourism Week. In recognition of the significance of the travel 
and tourism industry in the lives of citizens of our Nation and to 
visitors from abroad, I call upon all Americans to mark this observance 
with activities that highlight this important industry.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of 
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

[[Page 756]]

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 8, 2002]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 9.