Captive Nations Week, 1996

Proclamation 6909 of July 18, 1996

Captive Nations Week, 1996

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

This year marks the 38th commemoration of Captive
Nations Week--a national expression of solidarity and
support for all those around the globe who suffer the
harshness of oppressive rule. Democracy and human
rights have made great advances in recent years, thanks
to the courageous efforts of determined men and women.
Yet, despite these strides, far too many people
throughout the world live without the benefits of
freedom. As this century draws to a close, we must
remember the millions who still live in fear and the
countless children denied the prospect of a bright
future by authoritarian regimes.

The United States' commitment to liberty has ensured
over 200 years of justice and individual rights for our
citizens. We have worked hard to realize our founders'
vision of independence, and we cherish our proud
history of offering support and encouragement to others
who share that dream. In this post-Cold War era, when
ethnic, racial, and religious conflicts pose new
challenges to the global community, we must honor that
legacy and continue to build a future of international
stability and peace.

This week and throughout the year, let us rededicate
ourselves to the promotion of liberty and universal
human rights for those who suffer under the yoke of
tyranny in other lands. The United States will continue
to champion political freedom for all races, religions,
creeds, and nationalities, pledging to keep faith with
people everywhere who cherish the fundamental values
that Americans have always held dear.

The Congress, by Joint Resolution approved July 17,
1959 (73 Stat. 212), has authorized and requested the
President to issue a proclamation designating the third
week in July of each year as ``Captive Nations Week.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim July 21
through July 27, 1996, as Captive Nations Week. I call
upon the people of the United States to observe this
week with appropriate ceremonies and activities
celebrating the principles on which this Nation was
established and by which it will forever prosper.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eighteenth day of July, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two
hundred and twenty-first.