[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 38 (Monday, September 26, 2005)]
[Pages 1426-1427]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7934--Family Day, 2005

 September 16, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Families are a source of hope, stability, and love. On Family Day, 
we celebrate the special bonds that link children and parents, and we 
recognize the importance of parental involvement in the lives of their 
children. By providing guidance, support, and unconditional love, 
families help shape the character and future of our Nation.
    In a free and compassionate society, the public good depends upon 
the private character of our citizens. That character is formed and 
shaped from a child's earliest days through the love and guidance of 
family. Families help children understand the difference between right 
and wrong and the importance of making good choices. Regular family 
activities allow parents to be actively involved in the lives of their 
children and instill important values of honesty, compassion, and 
respect for others. By raising young people in a loving and secure 
environment, parents help them develop into successful adults and 
responsible citizens.
    Parents and family are a bedrock of love and support, and my 
Administration is committed to strengthening families. My 2006 budget 
proposes $240 million for initiatives that promote responsible 
fatherhood and encourage healthy marriages. Through competitive grants 
to State-based programs and faith-based and community organizations, we 
are helping support their good work. As parents continue to raise 
healthy children, we can all help young people realize a bright and 
promising future.
    Strong families are the cornerstone of a strong America, and the 
well-being of families is a shared priority for all Americans. As we 
support families, we help build a Nation of opportunity and hope.
    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 September 26,

[[Page 1427]]

2005, as Family Day. I call on the people of the United States to 
observe this day by spending time with family members and reaffirming 
the important relationship between parents and children and the vital 
role that families play in our society.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day 
of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., September 
20, 2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
September 21. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.