National Child's Day, 2002

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 7571 of June 5, 2002

National Child's Day, 2002

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Children bring joy and challenge to the lives they
touch. And as our next generation of leaders, they
carry with them the hope of our Nation. From the
excitement of watching a toddler take a first step to
the satisfaction of seeing them mature into adulthood,
we are blessed to share our lives and experiences with
children. Their thoughts, ideas, and unique
perspectives renew our appreciation for life.

National Child's Day is a time to affirm our commitment
as parents, teachers, and citizens to the health, well-
being, and success of our children. Our goal must be to
make sure that all children have the opportunity to
learn and succeed. To achieve this, we must use the
resources of our families, communities, schools, and
government to ensure that no child is left behind.

My Administration is strongly committed to helping boys
and girls grow up in secure families that help them
reach their full potential. Families forge values where
children can find fulfillment and love. And children
who are surrounded by love, support, and encouragement
can develop self-esteem and have a strong foundation
for life.

We are working to implement programs and initiatives
that help families stay strong and intact; that support
adoption efforts and mentoring programs; that protect
children from abuse and neglect; and that encourage
alcohol, drug, and sexual abstinence. We also are
making great progress in helping all schools become
places where every student is able and expected to
learn.

While government can provide much to support children,
it cannot provide the love a child needs. I encourage
all community leaders, educators, faith-based
organizations, and citizens to seek opportunities to
mentor, encourage, and listen to our children. As we
observe National Child's Day, we should also
communicate to young people that their dreams,
aspirations, happiness, and well-being are important to
us and to our future.

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 June 9, 2002, as National
Child's Day. I urge all Americans to work within their
communities to appreciate, love, and protect all of
America's children. I also call upon citizens to
observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies,
and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fifth day of June, 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