National American Indian Heritage Month, 2001

Proclamation 7500 of November 12, 2001

National American Indian Heritage Month, 2001

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

The strength of our Nation comes from its people. As
the early inhabitants of this great land, the native
peoples of North America played a unique role in the
shaping of our Nation's history and culture. During
this month when we celebrate Thanksgiving, we
especially celebrate their heritage and the
contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native
peoples to this Nation.

Since our Nation's birth, pluralism and diversity have
been hallmarks of the American experience and success.
In 1782, the Founding Fathers chose as our national
motto ``E Pluribus Unum,'' which means ``out of many,
one.'' Today, America's unity, derived from a mix of
many diverse cultures and people, grandly embodies the
vision expressed by our Founders. American Indian and
Alaska Native cultures have made remarkable
contributions to our national identity. Their unique
spiritual, artistic, and literary contributions,
together with their vibrant customs and celebrations,
enliven and enrich our land.

As we move into the 21st century, American Indians and
Alaska Natives will play a vital role in maintaining
our Nation's strength and prosperity. Almost half of
America's Native American tribal leaders have served in
the United States Armed Forces, following in the
footsteps of their forebears who distinguished
themselves during the World Wars and the conflicts in
Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf.

Their patriotism again appeared after the September 11
attacks, as American Indian law enforcement officers
volunteered to serve in air marshal programs. On the
local level, American Indians and Alaska Natives are
strengthening their communities through education and
business development, opening the doors to opportunity,
and contributing to a brighter future for all.

My Administration will continue to work with tribal
governments on a sovereign to sovereign basis to
provide Native Americans with new economic and
educational opportunities. Indian education programs
will remain a priority, so that no American child,
including no Native American child, is left behind. We
will protect and honor tribal sovereignty and help to
stimulate economic development in reservation
communities. We will work with the American Indians and
Alaska Natives to preserve their freedoms, as they
practice their religion and culture.

During National American Indian Heritage Month, I call
on all Americans to learn more about the history and
heritage of the Native peoples of this great land. Such
actions reaffirm our appreciation and respect for their
traditions and way of life and can help to preserve an
important part of our culture for generations yet to
come.

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 November 2001 as National
American Indian Heritage Month. I call upon the people
of the United States to observe this month with
appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twelfth day of November, in the year of our Lord two
thousand one, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.

(Presidential Sig.)B