Parents' Day, 1996

Proclamation 6911 of July 25, 1996

Parents' Day, 1996

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

No job presents greater challenges, demands broader
responsibilities, or promises more profound rewards
than parenthood. Parents are daily caretakers and
lifelong role models. They guide us and share the
values and lessons that enable us to grow and flourish.
Throughout our lives, we remember our parents' example,
recognizing that their joys and aspirations, triumphs
and disappointments, have shaped our experience and
given us meaningful direction.

Our Nation has always depended on strong families, and
we must continue to do all we can to help hardworking
men and women shoulder the duties of parenthood. It is
vital to support today's parents, to honor those who
have taught us so much, and to impress upon young
people the awesome responsibility of parenthood.

On this day and throughout the year, let us take time
to celebrate the special, enduring bond between parents
and children. Foster parents and stepparents,
biological and adoptive mothers and fathers--all
deserve our respect and gratitude. Parents open their
homes and hearts to nurture and protect us; let us
offer in return our deepest appreciation for their
devotion and care.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States and consistent with Public Law 103-362, do
hereby proclaim Sunday, July 28, 1996, as Parents' Day.
I call upon the States, communities, and all Americans
to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities to express affectionate thanks to our
Nation's parents.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two
hundred and twenty-first.