[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 39 (Monday, October 2, 2006)]
[Pages 1663-1664]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8056--Family Day, 2006

September 22, 2006

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Families instill values, shape character, and are the foundation of 
a hopeful society. On Family Day, we celebrate the rich traditions of 
family life and emphasize the importance of stable and loving 
relationships between children and parents.
    Families are a source of inspiration and strength, and they provide 
hope and solace in the face of adversity. Children especially benefit 
from the bonds of family. During critical times in children's lives, 
family members encourage them to aim high and achieve their dreams, 
herald their successes, and promote positive behavior. Through their 
guidance and support, family members prepare young people for the 
challenges and opportunities ahead.
    Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other caregivers are the 
first line of defense in helping young people avoid the dangers and 
temptations they face each day. By being attentive to children's 
activities and choices, families can help young people grow into 
successful adults.
    My Administration remains committed to strengthening American 
families. We are working to protect the institution of marriage, promote 
responsible fatherhood, encourage parents to be involved in the 
education of their children, and provide every child with the 
opportunity to learn. By helping America's families thrive, we can build 
a brighter future for our country and give our young people the 
foundation they need to make good choices and build lives of purpose.
    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 25, 2006, as 
Family Day. I call on the people of the United States to observe this 
day by reflecting on the blessings of family and participating in family 
activities that strengthen relationships between children and parents.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second 
day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United

[[Page 1664]]

States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., September 26, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
September 27. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.