National Arts and Humanities Month, 2012

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 8873 of October 1, 2012

National Arts and Humanities Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

After the bombing of Fort McHenry during the War of
1812, a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key reached
for his pen and captured the resilience of the American
people. His poem became our National Anthem, and almost
two centuries later, it continues to speak to the
American spirit just as it did on that September day so
long ago. Throughout our history, the arts and
humanities have given us comfort and confidence, drawn
us together, and called on us to strive for a more
perfect Union. This month, we celebrate our Nation's
rich artistic heritage.

Artistic expression and memorable ideas can resonate
with us, challenge us, and teach us important lessons
about ourselves and each other. At their best, great
works of literature, theater, dance, fine art, and
music reflect something common in all of us. They open
dialogues between cultures and raise poignant questions
about our world. They are also vital components of our
children's education and our national growth--not only
teaching our youth to observe closely, interpret
creatively, and think critically, but also bringing new
cultural experiences to our communities and helping
drive economic progress. That is why my Administration
is committed to strengthening arts and humanities
programs in schools and communities across our Nation.

When children read their first book, pick up their
first instrument, or perform in their first play, they
demonstrate the power of the arts to ignite wonder and
imagination. This month, let us pledge to invest in
America's next generation by ensuring our children have
the opportunity to participate in and enjoy the arts
and humanities. If we give them the tools to create and
innovate, they will do their part to disrupt our views,
challenge our perceptions, and stir us to be our best
selves.

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 October 2012 as
National Arts and Humanities Month. I call upon the
people of the United States to join together in
observing this month with appropriate ceremonies,
activities, and programs to celebrate the arts and the
humanities in America.

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