Columbus Day, 2010

Proclamation 8584 of October 8, 2010

Columbus Day, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Over five centuries ago, Christopher Columbus set sail
across the Atlantic Ocean in search of a new trade
route to India. The findings of this explorer from
Genoa, Italy, would change the map of the world and
forever alter the course of human history.

When Columbus's crewmembers came ashore in the
Americas, they arrived in a world previously unknown to
his contemporaries in Europe. Columbus returned to the
Caribbean three more times after his maiden voyage in
1492, convinced of the vast potential of what he had
seen. His expeditions foreshadowed the journey across
the seas for millions of courageous immigrants who
followed. As they settled, they joined indigenous
communities with thriving cultures. Today, we reflect
on the myriad contributions tribal communities have
made to our Nation and the world, and we remember the
tremendous suffering they endured as this land changed.

For more than 500 years, women and men from every
corner of the globe have embarked on journeys to our
shores as did Columbus. Some have sought refuge from
religious or political oppression, and others have
departed nations ravaged by war, famine, or economic
despair. Columbus charted a course for generations of
Italians who followed his crossing to America. As Italy
marks the 150th anniversary of its unification this
year, we celebrate the incalculable contributions of
Italian Americans, whose determination, hard work, and
leadership have done so much to build the strength of
our Nation.

What Columbus encountered over half a millennia ago was
more than earth or continent. His epic quest into the
unknown may not have revealed the new trade route he
sought, but it exposed the boundless potential of a new
frontier. It is this intrepid character and spirit of
possibility that has come to define America, and is the
reason countless families still journey to our shores.

In commemoration of Christopher Columbus' historic
voyage 518 years ago, the Congress, by joint resolution
of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C.
107), as amended, has requested 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
11, 2010, as Columbus Day. I call upon 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
eighth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.