Columbus Day, 2009

Proclamation 8437 of October 9, 2009

Columbus Day, 2009

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

More than 500 years have passed since Christopher
Columbus set sail across the Atlantic Ocean in a bold
attempt to expand human understanding of the known
world. His voyage radically altered the course of
history and changed our world forever. Many generations
later, that same spirit of exploration inspires
Americans to pursue brave new frontiers in business,
science, and technology. Today, we reflect on the
transformation of North America from a land of
boundless opportunity to the modern communities of the
21st century.

Born in Genoa, Italy, Christopher Columbus' journey
aboard three Spanish ships revealed a new land for many
European nations whose people would later flock to our
shores in search of prosperity and freedom. These
immigrants joined many thriving indigenous communities
who suffered great hardships as a result of the changes
to the land they inhabited. Although their competing
ways of life were initially at odds, over time, the
``New World'' became a culturally and ethnically
diverse place where we now enjoy the free exchange of
ideas and democratic self-governance. Tribal
communities continue to strengthen our Nation through
their rich heritage and unique identity.

Columbus inspired generations of men and women to
search out the farthest reaches of the world. From the
coasts of Newfoundland to the Gulf of Mexico, explorers
of Italian descent have directly influenced the growth
of North America. Their dedication to our country has
helped lay the foundation on which America was built.
Today, Italian Americans continue to contribute
immeasurably to the identity of our Nation, as role
models, leaders, innovators, and committed public
servants. From the boardroom to the classroom, they are
prominent in every facet of American life.

In commemoration of Christopher Columbus' historic
exploration 517 years ago, the Congress, by joint
resolution of April 30, 1934 (48 Stat. 657), and an Act
of June 28, 1968 (82 Stat. 250), has requested that the
President proclaim the second Monday of October of each
year as ``Columbus Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October
12, 2009, as Columbus Day. I call upon all the people
of the United States to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct
that the flag of the United States be displayed on all
public buildings on the appointed day in honor of
Christopher Columbus.

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