National African American History Month, 2003

Proclamation 7645 of January 31, 2003

National African American History Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

African Americans have played central roles in some of
the most triumphant and courageous moments in our
Nation's history. During National African American
History Month, we honor the rich heritage of African
Americans and pay tribute to their many contributions
to our Nation. As we celebrate this year's theme, ``The
Souls of Black Folk: Centennial Reflections,'' we
remember the successes and challenges of our past. We
also resolve to honor the achievements and legacy of
these proud citizens by continuing to improve our
society so that it fully lives up to our founding
ideals.

In 1915, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson recognized the need
for our country to gain a more complete and informed
understanding of our past. He founded the Association
for the Study of Negro Life and History and established
the first Negro History Week to emphasize that ``We
have a wonderful history behind us . . . `` Through the
pioneering efforts of Dr. Woodson and the hard work of
the Association, this observance officially became
Black History Month in 1976.

For generations, African Americans have strengthened
our Nation by urging reforms, overcoming obstacles, and
breaking down barriers. We see the greatness of America
in those who have risen above injustice and enriched
our society, a greatness reflected in the resolve of
Jackie Robinson, the intellect of W.E.B. DuBois, and
the talent of Louis Armstrong. We also gain a deeper
appreciation for the African-American experience in the
writings of James Baldwin, Ralph Ellison, and Zora Neal
Hurston, as well as in the music of Mahalia Jackson,
Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and countless others.

African Americans reflect a proud legacy of courage and
dedication that has helped to guide our Nation's
success and prosperity. Visionary leaders like
Frederick Douglass, Thurgood Marshall, and Martin
Luther King, Jr., possessed a clarity of purpose and
were instrumental in exposing and addressing the issues
that threatened our founding principles. The battle for
freedom, equality, and opportunity was fought on the
front lines by strong figures such as Harriet Tubman
and Fannie Lou Hamer, as well as many other everyday
heroes who helped to lead this Nation to a more hopeful
and just society.

As we recall these remarkable individuals, we also
recognize that, despite our progress, racial prejudice
still exists in America. As a Nation and as
individuals, we must be vigilant in responding to
discrimination wherever we find it. By promoting
diversity, understanding, and opportunity, we will
continue our efforts to build a society where every
person, of every race, can realize the promise of
America.

This month, I encourage all citizens to gain awareness
of and appreciation for African-American history. As we
remember this important part of our Nation's past, we
look to a bright future, recognizing the potential of
an America united in purpose, guided by spirit, and
dedicated to equality.

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
February 2003 as National African American History
Month. I call upon public officials, educators,
librarians, and all of the people of the United States
to observe this month with appropriate programs and
activities that highlight and honor the myriad of
contributions that African Americans have made to our
Nation.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B