National Family Week, 2013

Proclamation 9061 of November 22, 2013

National Family Week, 2013

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Whether united by blood or bonds of kinship--whether
led by a mother and father, same-sex couple, single
parent, or guardian--families are the building blocks
of American society. During National Family Week, we
celebrate the spirit that moves family members to care
for one another, to grow and dream together, and to
instill in their children the character that keeps our
Nation strong.

As we honor America's families, we must also lift them
up. We must restore the basic bargain that built our
country--the idea that if you work hard and meet your
responsibilities, you can get ahead. That is why my
Administration has prioritized high-quality job
creation, affordable health insurance for America's
families, and a world-class education for every child.
Earlier this year, I signed the American Taxpayer
Relief Act, which permanently extended middle class tax
cuts while expanding the Child Tax Credit and marriage
penalty relief. I am calling on the Congress to
increase the minimum wage, a step that would raise
incomes for millions of working families. And because
we must serve our military families as well as they
serve us, First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill
Biden's Joining Forces initiative is connecting service
members, veterans, and military spouses with companies
looking to hire.

This week, let us renew our family bonds. Whether by
sharing a family meal, reading a bedtime story, or
creating a holiday tradition, let us carve out a place
in the lives of our loved ones. And as we do so, let us
resolve that every family should have the opportunity
to raise America's next generation of innovators,
scholars, and leaders.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim November 24 through
November 30, 2013, as National Family Week. I invite
all States, communities, and individuals to join in
observing this week with appropriate ceremonies and
activities to honor our Nation's families.

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