Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 110 Part 6.djvu/723

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PROCLAMATION 6909—JULY 18, 1996 110 STAT. 4545 be one America—a Nation of extraordinary possibility with opportunity, freedom, and respect for all. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 1996, as A National Month of Unity. I call upon religious leaders of all faiths to emphasize the need for healing and tolerance. I ask all Americans to join these efforts by working together to mend divisions and promote understanding; by reaching out to friends and neighbors of all races and faiths in a spirit of fellowship; and by seeking to strengthen, through words and actions, the ideals of equality and community cherished by generations of Americans. In this birth month of our Nation, let us set an example for the world we welcome to Atlanta for the Centennial Olympic Games by rededicating ourselves to America's fundamental truth: E pluribus unum—from many, one. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of July, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twentieth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 6909 of July 18, 1996 Captive Nations Week, 1996 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation This year marks the 38th commemoration of Captive Nations Week— a national expression of solidarity and support for all those around the globe who suffer the harshness of oppressive rule. Democracy and human rights have made great advances in recent years, thanks to the courageous efforts of determined men and women. Yet, despite these strides, far too many people throughout the world live without the benefits of freedom. As this centiuy draws to a close, we must remember the millions who still live in fear and the countless children denied the prospect of a bright future by authoritarian regimes. The United States' commitment to liberty has ensured over 200 years of justice and individual rights for our citizens. We have worked hard to realize our founders' vision of independence, and we cherish our proud history of offering support and encouragement to others who share that dream. In this post-Cold War era, when ethnic, racial, and religious conflicts pose new challenges to the global community, we must honor that legacy and continue to build a future of international stability and peace. This week and throughout the year, let us rededicate ourselves to the promotion of liberty and universal human rights for those who suffer under the yoke of tyranny in other lands. The United States will continue to champion political freedom for all races, religions, creeds, and nationalities, pledging to keep faith with people everywhere who cherish the fundamental vedues that Americans have always held dear.