National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2013

Proclamation 8990 of May 31, 2013

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, 2013

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For centuries, the United States and nations in the
Caribbean have grown alongside each other as partners
in progress. Separated by sea but united by a yearning
for independence, our countries won the right to chart
their own destinies after generations of colonial rule.
Time and again, we have led the way to a brighter
future together--from lifting the stains of slavery and
segregation to widening the circle of opportunity for
our sons and daughters.

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a time to
celebrate those enduring achievements. It is also a
chance to recognize men and women who trace their roots
to the Caribbean. Through every chapter of our Nation's
history, Caribbean Americans have made our country
stronger--reshaping our politics and reigniting the
arts, spurring our movements and answering the call to
serve. Caribbean traditions have enriched our own, and
woven new threads into our cultural fabric. Again and
again, Caribbean immigrants and their descendants have
reaffirmed America's promise as a land of opportunity--
a place where no matter who you are or where you come
from, you can make it if you try.

Together, as a Nation of immigrants, we will keep
writing that story. And alongside our partners
throughout the Caribbean, we will keep working to
achieve inclusive economic growth, access to clean and
affordable energy, enhanced security, and lasting
opportunity for all our people. As we honor Caribbean
Americans this month, let us strengthen the ties that
bind us as members of the Pan American community, and
let us resolve to carry them forward in the years
ahead.

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 2013 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
thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.