National Arts and Humanities Month, 2014

Proclamation 9177 of September 30, 2014

National Arts and Humanities Month, 2014

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

In this complicated world and in these challenging
times, the arts and humanities enhance the character of
our Nation. The flash of insight that comes from
watching a thought-provoking documentary or discovering
a compelling novel sparks moments of joy, awe, and
sorrow. From symphonies that bring tragedy to life with
long bow strokes to architecture that challenges the
boundaries of the world around it, these works add
texture to our lives and reveal something about
ourselves. During National Arts and Humanities Month,
we reflect on the many ways the arts and humanities
have contributed to the fabric of our society.

Since our earliest days, America has flourished because
of the creative spirit and vision of our people. Our
Nation is built on the freedom of expression, and we
rely on the arts and humanities to broaden our views
and remind us of the truths that connect us. We must
never take for granted the wonder we feel when standing
before a timeless work of art or the world of memories
that is unlocked with a simple movement or a single
note. By capturing our greatest hopes and deepest
fears, the arts and humanities play an important role
in telling our country's story and broadening our
understanding of the world.

Cultivating the talents of our young people and
ensuring they have access to the arts are critical to
our Nation's growth and prosperity. To meet the
challenges ahead, we must harness the skills and
ingenuity of our children and grandchildren and instill
in them the same passion and persistence that has
driven centuries of progress and innovation. The arts
and humanities provide important opportunities for our
young people to unleash their creativity and reach for
new heights. That is why my Administration is committed
to bolstering initiatives that ensure the next
generation has the tools to foster their artistic
expression and the opportunities to go as far as their
imaginations can take them.

This month, we pay tribute to the tremendous power of
the arts and humanities to bring us together and expose
us to new ideas that make us think and feel. As we
carry forward this proud tradition, let us celebrate
the ways our Nation's rich heritage has strengthened
our country and inspired our lives.

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 2014 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
thirtieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two
thousand fourteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.