National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2012

Proclamation 8835 of June 1, 2012

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Individuals and families from Caribbean countries have
journeyed to America's shores for centuries. Some were
brought here against their will in the bonds of
slavery. Some immigrated to America as children,
clutching a parent's hand. Others came as adults,
leaving behind everything they knew in pursuit of a
better life in a new world. Generations of Caribbean
Americans have sought to ensure their children and
grandchildren would have the freedom to make of their
lives what they will, and during National Caribbean-
American Heritage Month, we celebrate their rich
narratives and recognize their immeasurable
contributions to our country.

Caribbean Americans have shaped every aspect of our
society--enhancing our arts and humanities as titans of
music and literature, spurring our economy as intrepid
entrepreneurs, making new discoveries as scientists and
engineers, serving as staunch advocates for social and
political change, and defending our ideals at home and
abroad as leaders in our military. Their achievements
exemplify the tenacity and perseverance embedded in our
national character, and their stories embody the
fundamental American idea that when access to
opportunity is equal, anyone can make it if they try.

As we reflect on the myriad ways Caribbean Americans
have shaped our country, we join in commemorating the
50th anniversaries of independence in Jamaica and
Trinidad and Tobago, and we reaffirm the bonds of
friendship we share with our Caribbean neighbors. This
month, let us celebrate the essence of the Nation we
all love--an America where so many of our ancestors
have come from somewhere else; a society that has been
enriched by cultures from around the world.

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 2012 as National
Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I encourage 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
first day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand
twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.