National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, 2012

Proclamation 8879 of October 1, 2012

National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Every day, far too many Americans are hurt by alcohol
and drug abuse. From diminished achievement in our
schools, to greater risks on our roads and in our
communities, to the heartache of lives cut tragically
short, the consequences of substance abuse are
profound. Yet, we also know that they are preventable.
This month, we pay tribute to all those working to
prevent substance abuse in our communities, and we
rededicate ourselves to building a safer, drug-free
America.

By stopping drug use before it starts, we can prevent
the disease of addiction and create stronger
neighborhoods across our country. My Administration has
placed prevention at the heart of our National Drug
Control Strategy, promoting a balanced approach that
advances evidence-based public health and safety
reforms. We have invested in outreach programs that
empower young Americans with the facts about substance
abuse, and we have worked to stem the tide of
prescription drug abuse through education, monitoring,
proper disposal, and enforcement. We have also worked
to develop a nationwide, community-based prevention
system that joins stakeholders at every level of
government with local organizations that can deliver
local solutions.

All of us can play a role in preventing drug and
alcohol abuse. As our children's first teachers,
parents and guardians can help by talking to their kids
about the dangers of substance abuse. Alongside them,
coalitions of teachers, faith-based groups, health care
providers, law enforcement officials, and other local
leaders are joining together to address substance abuse
in their communities. As we observe National Substance
Abuse Prevention Month, let us join in those vital
efforts and reaffirm our vision for an America where
each of us has the fullest opportunity to live in
health and happiness.

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 Substance Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon
all Americans to engage in appropriate programs and
activities to promote comprehensive substance abuse
prevention efforts within their communities.

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.