[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 6 (Monday, February 10, 2003)]
[Pages 149-150]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7645--National African American History Month, 2003

 January 31, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    African Americans have played central roles in some of the most 
triumphant and courageous moments in our Nation's history. During 
National African American History Month, we honor the rich heritage of 
African Americans and pay tribute to their many contributions to our 
Nation. As we celebrate this year's theme, ``The Souls of Black Folk: 
Centennial Reflections,'' we remember the successes and challenges of 
our past. We also resolve to honor the achievements and legacy of these 
proud citizens by continuing to improve our society so that it fully 
lives up to our founding ideals.
    In 1915, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson recognized the need for our 
country to gain a more complete and informed understanding of our past. 
He founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History and 
established the first Negro History Week to emphasize that ``We have a 
wonderful history behind us . . . '' Through the pioneering efforts of 
Dr. Woodson and the hard work of the Association, this observance 
officially became Black History Month in 1976.
    For generations, African Americans have strengthened our Nation by 
urging reforms, overcoming obstacles, and breaking down barriers. We see 
the greatness of America in those who have risen above injustice and 
enriched our society, a greatness reflected in the resolve of Jackie 
Robinson, the intellect of W.E.B. DuBois, and the talent of Louis 
Armstrong. We also gain a deeper appreciation for the African-American 
experience in the writings of James Baldwin, Ralph Ellison, and Zora 
Neal Hurston, as well as in the music of Mahalia Jackson, Billie 
Holiday, Duke Ellington, and countless others.
    African Americans reflect a proud legacy of courage and dedication 
that has helped to guide our Nation's success and prosperity. Visionary 
leaders like Frederick Douglass, Thurgood Marshall, and Martin Luther 
King, Jr., possessed a clarity of purpose and were instrumental in 
exposing and addressing the issues that threatened our founding 
principles. The battle for freedom, equality, and opportunity was fought 
on the front lines by strong figures such as Harriet Tubman and Fannie 
Lou Hamer, as well as many other everyday heroes who helped to lead this 
Nation to a more hopeful and just society.
    As we recall these remarkable individuals, we also recognize that, 
despite our progress, racial prejudice still exists in America. As a 
Nation and as individuals, we must be vigilant in responding to 
discrimination wherever we find it. By promoting diversity, 
understanding, and opportunity, we will continue our efforts to build a 
society where every person, of every race, can realize the promise of 
America.
    This month, I encourage all citizens to gain awareness of and 
appreciation for African-American history. As we remember this important 
part of our Nation's past, we look to a bright future, recognizing the 
potential of an America united in purpose, guided by spirit, and 
dedicated to equality.
     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 February 2003 as 
National African American History Month. I call upon public officials, 
educators, librarians, and all of the people of the United States to 
observe this month with appropriate programs and activities that 
highlight and honor the myriad of contributions that African Americans 
have made to our Nation.

[[Page 150]]

     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first 
day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:04 a.m., February 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
February 5. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.