[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 38 (Monday, September 24, 2007)]
[Page 1234]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8178--Family Day, 2007

 September 20, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Families are the cornerstone of our Nation. On Family Day, we 
underscore our dedication to strengthening America's families and 
recognize the importance that the bonds between parents and children 
hold for the future of our country.
    Parents and family members are the first and most important 
influence in a child's life. Families offer a stable and nurturing 
environment by providing love, guidance, support, and comfort. They help 
young people gain the skills they need to succeed in life and the 
courage and drive to realize their dreams. By caring for and spending 
time with their children, parents instill lifelong values and help build 
a better America.
    My Administration is committed to supporting American families. We 
are working with faith-based and community organizations to promote 
healthy marriages, responsible fatherhood, and positive youth 
development. When children are connected to family, community, school, 
and places of worship, they are more likely to make good choices and 
reach their full potential.
    Families help prepare children for the opportunities and challenges 
of the 21st century by encouraging them and insisting on high standards. 
Strong, loving families help young Americans grow into successful adults 
and build a Nation shining with optimism.
     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 24, 2007, as 
Family Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this 
day by engaging in activities that strengthen the bonds between parents 
and children.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day 
of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.

                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., September 
25, 2007]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
September 26.