National Adoption Month, 2012

Proclamation 8896 of November 1, 2012

National Adoption Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

As a Nation that believes all children deserve the
chance to reach their full potential, we have a
fundamental responsibility to ensure each of them grows
up knowing the love and protection of a permanent
family. During National Adoption Month, we give voice
to children who are still waiting for that opportunity,
celebrate the bond that unites adoptive parents with
their sons and daughters, and recommit to providing
every child with the care and security that will
nurture their development and well-being.

Later this month, many Americans will also mark
National Adoption Day by completing a foster care
adoption and embracing a new member of their family.
Driven by reasons unique to their households but united
by the spirit of compassion that moves all who choose
to adopt, these parents will take up our country's most
important task--the work of raising our sons and
daughters. As we celebrate the contributions of
adoptive parents across our Nation, let us also strive
to eliminate discriminatory barriers that would
separate foster children from a loving family. Adoptive
families come in many forms, and it is essential that
all qualified adults have the opportunity to care for a
child in need.

My Administration remains committed to helping every
child find a loving home. We have partnered with faith-
based and community organizations across America to
help connect children with adoptive parents, and we
continue to work with State, local, and tribal
governments to improve child outcomes; enhance safety,
permanency, and well-being; and support adoptive
families. I was proud to sign the Affordable Care Act
and the International Adoption Simplification Act,
which have made it easier for families to adopt, as
well as the Child and Family Services Improvement and
Innovation Act, which will help reduce the length of
time young children are without families. We have built
on those efforts as part of the National Adoption
Campaign, which continues to bring adoption and foster
care into our national conversation.

Thousands of children living in America hope for the
comfort and safety of a loving family. This month, we
pay tribute to the dedicated professionals who help
make those children's dreams a reality, sharpen our
resolve to find a permanent home for every child, and
celebrate the stories of all whose lives have been
touched by adoption.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim November 2012 as
National Adoption Month. I encourage all Americans to
observe this month by answering the call to find a
permanent and caring family for every child in need,
and by supporting the families who care for them.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of November, in the year of our Lord two
thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.