[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 44 (Monday, November 7, 2005)]
[Pages 1645-1646]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7956--National American Indian Heritage Month, 2005

 November 2, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    National American Indian Heritage Month honors the many 
contributions and accomplishments of American Indians and Alaska 
Natives. During November, we remember the legacy of the first Americans 
and celebrate their vibrant and living traditions.
    The American Indian experience is central to the American story, and 
my Administration is committed to helping Native American cultures 
across the United States continue to flourish. One of the most important 
ways to ensure a successful future is through education. Over the past 4 
years, my Administration has provided more than $1 billion for the 
construction and renovation of Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. We also 
offer direct assistance for educator and counselor training to help make 
sure every classroom has a qualified teacher and every child has the 
tools he or she needs to succeed. As we work with tribal leaders to 
provide students with a superior education that respects the

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unique culture and traditions of the community, we can help ensure every 
child has the opportunity to realize their dreams.
    To enhance energy opportunities and strengthen tribal economies, my 
Administration is working to ease the regulatory barriers associated 
with tribal energy development. In August, I signed the Energy Policy 
Act of 2005, allocating $2 billion in the form of grants, loans, and 
loan guarantees for exploration, development, and production of energy. 
This legislation will help ensure that latest energy technologies are 
being used throughout our country.
    Since the earliest days of our Republic, Native Americans have 
played a vital role in our country's freedom and security. From the 
Revolutionary War scouts to the Code Talkers of World War II, Native 
Americans have served in all branches of America's Armed Forces. Today, 
that proud tradition continues, with Native Americans bravely defending 
our country in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom and helping 
to spread liberty around the world. America is grateful to all our 
service men and women who serve and sacrifice in the defense of freedom.
    Our young country is home to an ancient, noble, and enduring native 
culture, and my Administration recognizes the defining principles of 
tribal sovereignty and the right to self-determination. By working 
together, government to government, on important education, economic, 
and energy initiatives, we can strengthen America and build a future of 
hope and promise for all Native Americans. This month, we pay tribute to 
the American Indians and Alaska Natives who continue to shape our 
Nation. I encourage all citizens to learn more about the rich heritage 
of Native Americans.
    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 November 2005 as National 
American Indian Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate 
this month with appropriate programs and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of 
November, 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, 9:20 a.m., November 4, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
November 7.