For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 16, 2005
National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
Throughout our history, America has been a land of diversity and has
benefitted from the contributions of people of different backgrounds
brought together by a love of liberty. During National Hispanic Heritage
Month, we celebrate the achievements of Hispanic Americans and the
significant role they have played in making our Nation strong, prosperous,
and free.
The contributions of Hispanic Americans have made a positive impact on
every part of our society. Americans of Hispanic descent are astronauts
and athletes, doctors and teachers, lawyers and scientists. The vibrancy
of our Nation's Hispanic performers enriches music, dancing, and the arts.
Hispanic Americans serve at every level of government, including as
Attorney General of the United States and Secretary of Commerce. Latino
entrepreneurs are starting and growing businesses all across America,
creating jobs and opportunities. The hard work and determination of
Hispanic Americans continue to inspire all those who dream of a better life
for themselves and their families.
Our Nation's Hispanic community has contributed to the advance of freedom
abroad and to the defense of freedom at home. In every generation,
Hispanic Americans have served valiantly in the United States military.
Today there are more than 200,000 Hispanic Americans serving in the Armed
Forces, and our Nation is grateful for their courage and sacrifice. In
addition, thousands of Hispanic Americans are helping to defend and protect
our homeland by serving as police officers and firefighters. All Americans
are thankful for their daily work in helping to keep our Nation safe.
During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we join together to recognize the
proud history and rich culture of Hispanic
Americans. To honor the achievements of Hispanic Americans, the Congress,
by Public Law 100 402, as amended, has authorized and requested the
President to issue annually a proclamation designating September 15 through
October 15 as "National Hispanic Heritage Month."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim September 15 through October 15, 2005, as
National Hispanic Heritage Month. I call upon public officials, educators,
librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month
with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the
Independence of the United States
of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #
|