[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 22 (Monday, June 4, 2007)]
[Pages 714-715]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8151--Black Music Month, 2007

 May 31, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During Black Music Month, we recognize the outstanding contributions 
that African-American singers, composers, and musicians have made to our 
country, and we express our appreciation for the extraordinary music 
that has enriched our Nation.
    The music of African-American musicians has helped shape our 
national character and become an important part of our musical heritage. 
Often born out of great pain and strong faith, that music has helped 
African Americans endure tremendous suffering and overcome injustice 
with courage, faith, and hope. By speaking to the human experience and 
expressing heartfelt emotion, African-American artists have inspired 
people across the generations in America and around the world with their 
vision and creativity.
    This month is an opportunity to honor the men and women who have 
created some of the best music America has ever produced. Great musical 
talents such as Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Ella 
Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and James Brown have enriched our culture 
with innovative talent and artistic legacies that continue to influence 
musicians today. We remember so many wonderful artists and celebrate the

[[Page 715]]

achievements of black musicians whose work reflects the diversity of our 
citizens and lifts the human spirit.
    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 2007 as Black Music 
Month. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the history of 
black music and to enjoy the great contributions of African-American 
musicians.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first 
day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:52 a.m., June 1, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on June 4.