National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2010

Proclamation 8530 of May 28, 2010

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Our Nation is linked to the Caribbean by our geography
as well as our shared past and common aspirations.
During National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we
pay tribute to the diverse cultures and immeasurable
contributions of all Americans who trace their heritage
to the Caribbean.

Throughout our history, immigrants from Caribbean
countries have come to our shores seeking better lives
and opportunities. Others were brought against their
will in the bonds of slavery. All have strived to
ensure their children could achieve something greater
and have preserved the promise of America for future
generations.

During the month of June, we also honor the bonds of
friendship between the United States and Caribbean
countries. This year's devastating earthquake in Haiti
has brought untold grief to the Haitian-American
community, many who continue to mourn the loss of loved
ones as they help rebuild their homeland. These
families and individuals remain in our thoughts and
prayers. The United States has proudly played a leading
role in the international response to this crisis,
which included vital contributions from countries
throughout the Caribbean. As Haiti recovers, we will
remain a steady and reliable partner.

This month, we celebrate the triumph of Caribbean
Americans, a diverse community that encompasses many
nationalities and languages. They have become leaders
in every sector of American life while maintaining the
varied traditions of their countries of origin.
Caribbean Americans enrich our national character and
strengthen the fabric of our culture, and we are proud
they are part of the American family.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim June 2010 as National
Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I call upon all
Americans to celebrate the history and culture of
Caribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and
activities.

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