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Women's History Month
A Presidential Proclamation
By President Barack Obama
The great abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass once told us,
"If there is no struggle, there is no progress."
This year's theme, "African Americans and the Civil War," invites us
to reflect on 150 years since the start of the Civil War and on the
patriots of a young country who fought for the promises of justice and
equality laid out by our forbearers. In the Emancipation Proclamation,
President Abraham Lincoln not only extended freedom to those still
enslaved within rebellious areas, he also opened the door for African
Americans to join the Union effort
Tens of thousands of African Americans enlisted in the United States
Army and Navy, making extraordinary sacrifices to help unite a fractured
country and free millions from slavery. These gallant soldiers, like
those in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, served with
distinction, braving both intolerance and the perils of war to inspire a
Nation and expand the domain of freedom. Beyond the battlefield, black
men and women also supported the war effort by serving as surgeons,
nurses, chaplains, spies, and in other essential roles. These brave
Americans gave their energy, their spirit, and sometimes their lives for
the noble cause of liberty.
Over the course of the next century, the United States struggled to
deliver fundamental civil and human rights to African Americans, but
African Americans would not let their dreams be denied. Though Jim Crow
segregation slowed the onward march of history and expansion of the
American dream, African Americans braved bigotry and violence to
organize schools, churches, and neighborhood organizations. Bolstered
by strong values of faith and community, black men and women have
launched businesses, fueled scientific advances, served our Nation in
the Armed Forces, sought public office, taught our children, and created
groundbreaking works of art and entertainment. To perfect our Union and
provide a better life for their children, tenacious civil rights
pioneers have long demanded that America live up to its founding
principles, and their efforts continue to inspire us.
Though we inherit the extraordinary progress won by the tears and
toil of our predecessors, we know barriers still remain on the road to
equal opportunity. Knowledge is our strongest tool against injustice,
and it is our responsibility to empower every child in America with a
world-class education from cradle to career. We must continue to build
on our Nation's foundation of freedom and ensure equal opportunity,
economic security, and civil rights for all Americans. After a historic
recession has devastated many American families, and particularly
African Americans, we must continue to create jobs, support our middle
class, and strengthen pathways for families to climb out of poverty.
During National African American History Month, we recognize the
extraordinary achievements of African Americans and their essential role
in shaping the story of America. In honor of their courage and
contributions, let us resolve to carry forward together the promise of
America for our children.
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
February 2011 as National African American History Month. I call upon
public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the
United States to observe this month with appropriate programs,
ceremonies, and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA
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