American Red Cross Month, 2010

Proclamation 8478 of February 24, 2010

American Red Cross Month, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

From rebuilding former adversaries after World War II,
to combating HIV/AIDS in Africa, to saving lives after
the tragic earthquake in Haiti, the American people
have an unmatched tradition of responding to challenges
at home and abroad with compassion and generosity. This
tradition reflects our Nation's noblest ideals and has
led people around the world to see the United States as
a beacon of hope. During American Red Cross Month, we
honor the organizations across our country that
contribute to our Nation's ongoing efforts to relieve
human suffering.

Founded by Clara Barton in 1881, the American Red
Cross has provided assistance and comfort to
communities stricken by disasters large and small.
Amidst the final months of World War I in 1918,
President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed ``Red Cross
Week'' as a time for our citizens ``to give generously
to the continuation of the important work of relieving
distress.'' The American Red Cross continues to help
ensure our communities are more ready and resilient in
the face of future disasters. I urge all Americans to
embrace our shared duty to better prepare ourselves,
our families, and our neighbors against a wide range of
emergencies; and to visit www.Ready.gov and
www.CitizenCorps.gov.

Despite facing economic hardship at home, ordinary
Americans are still contributing to humanitarian
efforts worldwide. This year's catastrophic earthquake
in Haiti caused untold suffering, and the American
people have responded with speed and kindness.
Donations have poured into the American Red Cross and
other relief organizations. On the ground in Haiti,
American search-and-rescue teams have pulled survivors
from the rubble, and volunteer medical professionals
continue to treat victims and save lives.

Our Nation's leadership relies upon our citizens who
are motivated to act by our common humanity. This
month, let us come together to celebrate the American
spirit of generosity, and the dedicated individuals and
organizations who keep that spirit alive.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America and Honorary Chairman of the
American Red Cross, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim March 2010 as American Red
Cross Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this
month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and
activities, and by supporting the work of our Nation's
service and relief organizations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-fourth day of February, in the year of our Lord
two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.