National Park Week, 2010

Proclamation 8498 of April 16, 2010

National Park Week, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

As a Nation, we have a responsibility to protect
America's natural resources and noteworthy landmarks.
During National Park Week, we celebrate the diversity,
beauty, and history found in our National Park System.

For nearly 100 years, the American people have
entrusted the National Park Service (NPS) to care for
the places that fuel our spirit and define our
character. By safeguarding our Nation's historical
parks, sites, and monuments, NPS in turn preserves our
rich culture and heritage. From the first glimpses of
hope at the Statue of Liberty to the harrowing Battle
of Gettysburg and the quest for freedom on the
Underground Railroad, countless American stories are
enshrined in these sites. By visiting them, we can
reflect on our shared history and vision for the
future.

Our National Park System also includes millions of
acres that support educational and recreational
opportunities for all Americans. Every day, NPS
employees and volunteers dedicate their time and energy
to upholding the beauty and integrity of these lands
for future generations. Only by conserving our natural
treasures--from the verdant forests of the Great Smoky
Mountains to the geysers of Yellowstone and the granite
walls of Yosemite--can we share their wonder with our
children and grandchildren.

Our national parks provide safe and affordable
opportunities for families and communities to reconnect
with nature and have fun together. Our Nation's
historical parks, sites, and monuments also enhance
quality of life and bolster community vitality in many
of America's urban areas. In the spirit of Let's Move,
the First Lady's nationwide campaign to tackle
childhood obesity, I encourage all Americans to visit
our national parks and take part in outdoor activities.

While most national parks are free throughout the year,
none will charge admission during National Park Week,
ensuring these treasures are open and accessible to
all. As we acknowledge the wealth of our National Park
System, let us also recommit to responsible stewardship
that will sustain our parks for generations to come.

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 April 17 through
April 25, 2010, as National Park Week. I encourage all
Americans to visit their national parks and be reminded
of these unique blessings that we share as a Nation.

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