Columbus Day, 2015

Proclamation 9348 of October 9, 2015

Columbus Day, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Over half a millennium ago, Christopher Columbus--an
ambitious navigator native to Genoa, Italy--set sail
for new horizons. Aboard the Ni[ntilde]a, the Pinta,
and the Santa Mar[iacute]a, his expedition went west
for a months-long journey. Though his first of four
voyages across the Atlantic did not end at his desired
destination of Asia, Columbus's adventure reflected the
insatiable thirst for exploration that continues to
drive us as a people.

Columbus's legacy is embodied in the spirit of our
Nation. Determined and curious, the young explorer
persevered after having been doubted by many of his
potential patrons. Once opportunity struck, when
Ferdinand II and Isabella I agreed to sponsor his trip,
he seized the moment and pursued what he knew to be
possible. Columbus's arrival in the New World inspired
many and allowed for generations of Italians to
follow--people whose Italian-American heritage
contributes in immeasurable ways to making our country
what it is, and who continue to help strengthen the
friendship between the United States and Italy.

Though these early travels expanded the realm of
European exploration, to many they also marked a time
that forever changed the world for the indigenous
peoples of North America. Previously unseen disease,
devastation, and violence were introduced to their
lives--and as we pay tribute to the ways in which
Columbus pursued ambitious goals--we also recognize the
suffering inflicted upon Native Americans and we
recommit to strengthening tribal sovereignty and
maintaining our strong ties.

In the years since Columbus's time, the legacy of early
explorers has carried on in the wide eyes of aspiring
young dreamers and doers, eager to make their own
journeys and to continue reaching for the unknown and
unlocking new potential.

In commemoration of Christopher Columbus's historic
voyage 523 years ago, the Congress, by joint resolution
of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C.
107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim
the second Monday of October of each year as ``Columbus
Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October
12, 2015, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of
the United States to observe this day with appropriate
ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag
of the United States be displayed on all public
buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse
history and all who have contributed to shaping this
Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and fortieth.