Law Day, U.S.A., 2008

Proclamation 8250 of April 30, 2008

Law Day, U.S.A., 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

The right of ordinary men and women to determine their
own future, protected by the rule of law, lies at the
heart of America's founding principles. As our country
celebrates the 50th anniversary of Law Day, we renew
our commitment to the ideals on which this great Nation
was established and to a robust system of ordered
liberty.

The American legal system is central to protecting the
rights and freedoms our Nation holds dear. The theme of
this year's Law Day, ``The Rule of Law: Foundation for
Communities of Opportunity and Equity,'' recognizes the
fundamental role that the rule of law plays in
preserving liberty in our Nation and in all free
societies. We pay tribute to the men and women in
America's legal community. Through hard work and
dedication to the rule of law, members of the judiciary
and the legal profession help secure the rights of
individuals, bring justice to our communities, and
reinforce the proud traditions that make America a
beacon of light for the world.

Nearly 800 years ago, the Magna Carta placed the
authority of government under the rule of law;
centuries later, the Declaration of Independence and
the United States Constitution marked tremendous
advances in the march of liberty. These documents
established enduring principles that guide modern
democracies. Today, we are reminded of that past and
look toward a hopeful future as we work to secure the
liberty that is the natural right of every man, woman,
and child.

On Law Day, U.S.A., our Nation celebrates our belief in
the equality of each person before God and renews our
commitment to strive to bring America ever closer to
its founding ideals.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, in accordance with Public Law
87-20, as amended, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2008, as
Law Day, U.S.A. I call upon all the people of the
United States to observe this day with appropriate
ceremonies and activities. I also call upon Government
officials to display the flag of the United States in
support of this national observance.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two
thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.