[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 26 (Monday, June 30, 2003)]
[Pages 812-813]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7687--Black Music Month, 2003

 June 24, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    For centuries, black artists have created or inspired distinctively 
American musical styles. During Black Music Month, we celebrate the ways 
that African-American music has helped shape American society and 
reflect the character of our Nation, and we recognize the pioneers who 
spearheaded these important musical forms.
    Throughout history, African-American music has shown the social 
climate of the time. From the days of slavery and discrimination, 
through the progress of the Civil Rights movement, to today, black music 
has told the story of the African-American experience. In addition to 
giving voice to black struggles, faith, and joys, African-American music 
has helped also to bring people together. Before our Nation's strides 
toward equal justice, music such as jazz and blues provided a venue in 
which people of all races could be judged by their talent, and not the 
color of their skin.
    The people who sang the earliest African-American music knew the 
worst of human cruelty and earthly injustice. In spirituals, work songs, 
and shouts, we hear the pain of separation and the bitterness of 
oppression. We also hear courage, and the comfort and strength of a 
faith that trusts God to right every wrong and wipe away every tear. 
These songs were used to share stories, spread ideas, preserve history, 
and establish community.
    Early work songs and spirituals laid the creative foundation for the 
development of gospel, blues, and jazz. In black churches throughout the 
south, gospel offered a medium to share the good news. The beauty of 
both gospel and the blues lies in their power to express emotions that 
can be felt as well as heard. The blues were first popularized in 
America by W.C. Handy. A classically trained musician, this ``Father of 
the Blues'' helped to compose and distribute blues music throughout the 
country. His music continues to touch people today.
    In the early 20th century, the progression to jazz took place all 
over the country, from the deep south of New Orleans and the Mississippi 
Delta to northern cities such as Chicago and New York. Black artists 
migrated to Harlem, New York in large numbers, creating a culturally 
diverse hub for black art, writing, and music known as the Harlem 
Renaissance. Harlem became a place of energy and magic, and timeless 
music emerged from this period. The heart of the Harlem Renaissance is 
reflected in the original and authentic music of such influential 
figures as Bessie Smith, Count Basie, and Fletcher Henderson.
    African Americans continued to influence popular music through the 
1940s and 50s, with the emergence of rhythm and blues and rock and roll. 
These revolutionary styles built upon various forms of African-American 
music, fusing elements of jazz, blues, and gospel.
    African-American music continues to influence the American music 
scene today with styles such as rap and hip-hop. As we celebrate the 
many creative and inspiring African-American artists whose efforts have 
enhanced our Nation, we recognize their enduring legacy and look to a 
future of continued musical achievement.
    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 June 2003 as Black Music 
Month. I encourage Americans of all backgrounds to learn more about the 
heritage of black musicians, and to celebrate

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the remarkable role they have played in our history and culture.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth 
day of June, 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, 8:45 a.m., June 25, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on June 
26.