National Tourism Week, 2002

Proclamation 7556 of May 6, 2002

National Tourism Week, 2002

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For hundreds of years, people across our Nation and
around the world have enjoyed traveling across America
to visit our magnificent cities, parks, museums, and
countless other natural, historic, and cultural sites.
Our land provides endless opportunities to learn as
well as to enjoy our Nation's immense variety of
attractions.

The travel and tourism industry represents a vital part
of the American economy. The Department of Commerce
estimates that in 2001 the travel and tourism industry
generated more than $90 billion in export revenue and
provided a $7.7 billion balance of trade surplus.
Preliminary numbers show that last year, the industry
created approximately $545 billion in total travel
expenditures and provided $94 billion in tax revenue to
local, State, and Federal governments. As one of our
Nation's largest employers, travel and tourism supports
more than 7 million jobs.

During National Tourism Week 2002, we recognize the
significance of this important industry to our economy
and for the lives of all Americans. In the aftermath of
the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, the travel
and tourism industry contributed to our country's
efforts to persevere through this challenging time. As
we have encouraged people to resume the regular course
of their lives, Americans and visitors from around the
world have responded by traveling to and enjoying the
beauty of our Nation.

During this observance, I urge all Americans and people
around the globe to travel to and within our country to
experience the hospitality and quality of our Nation's
great destinations.

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 May 5-11, 2002, as National
Tourism Week. In recognition of the significance of the
travel and tourism industry in the lives of citizens of
our Nation and to visitors from abroad, I call upon all
Americans to mark this observance with activities that
highlight this important industry.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B