Black Music Month, 2006

Proclamation 8025 of May 25, 2006

Black Music Month, 2006

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

African-American musicians have added to the rich
culture of our country and of countries around the
world. During Black Music Month, we recognize the
African-American artists who have enhanced our lives
and created some of our Nation's most treasured art
forms.

Throughout history, African-American artists have
produced music with the power to change hearts and
shape our national conscience. From gospel to blues,
from jazz to rock and roll, the songs of America's
black musicians have defined our times and enriched our
culture. Performers such as Count Basie and Dizzy
Gillespie and vocalists such as Lizzie Miles and gospel
singer Mahalia Jackson have made their mark as great
American musicians, strengthening our Nation's
diversity and lifting the human spirit.

In 2005, Americans witnessed the power of music to help
bring our country together. Following the devastation
of the Gulf Coast by Hurricane Katrina, the musicians
of that great region sought to preserve their unique
musical style and culture and share it with the rest of
the Nation. The soulful music of New Orleans and the
Gulf Coast remains one of our national treasures, a
symbol of creativity and hope.

Black Music Month recognizes some of the brightest
lights of American creativity and honors the African-
American men and women whose art entertains and
inspires us. The incredible talents of black musicians
continue to speak to every heart, reflecting the beauty
and pride of our great Nation.

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 2006 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
twenty-fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand six, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

(Presidential Sig.)B