Black Music Month, 2007

Proclamation 8151 of May 31, 2007

Black Music Month, 2007

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During Black Music Month, we recognize the outstanding
contributions that African-American singers, composers,
and musicians have made to our country, and we express
our appreciation for the extraordinary music that has
enriched our Nation.

The music of African-American musicians has helped
shape our national character and become an important
part of our musical heritage. Often born out of great
pain and strong faith, that music has helped African
Americans endure tremendous suffering and overcome
injustice with courage, faith, and hope. By speaking to
the human experience and expressing heartfelt emotion,
African-American artists have inspired people across
the generations in America and around the world with
their vision and creativity.

This month is an opportunity to honor the men and women
who have created some of the best music America has
ever produced. Great musical talents such as Ray
Charles, Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Ella
Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and James Brown have
enriched our culture with innovative talent and
artistic legacies that continue to influence musicians
today. We remember so many wonderful artists and
celebrate the achievements of black musicians whose
work reflects the diversity of our citizens and lifts
the human spirit.

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 2007 as Black Music
Month. I encourage all Americans to learn more about
the history of black music and to enjoy the great
contributions of African-American musicians.

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