123STA T . 3 70 7 PROCL A M AT I O N84 2 6— S E PT. 30 , 200 9denialofc o v e r a g e b a s ed on p re - e x is t ing conditions , incl u ding breast cancer .B reast cancer h ealth disparities also present a serious challenge. W hite w o m en have the highest breast cancer incidence rates, and A frican American women have higher mortalit y rates than other racial or eth- nic groups in the U nited S tates. T here is also evidence lesbian women are at a greater ris k of developing breast cancer than heterosexual women. E very day, we are improving programs that address the issues women encounter in obtaining appropriate and timely treatment. As a N ation, we will overcome the financial and physical restraints of un- derserved populations and ensure access to q uality health care. O ur Nation has made significant progress in the fight against breast cancer, and we remain firm in our commitment to do more. This month, we reaffirm our commitment to reduce the burden of breast cancer and our support for those who are living with this devastating disease. By raising awareness of this disease and supporting research, we can usher in a new era in our struggle against breast cancer. NOW, T H E R E F ORE, I , BARA CK OBA M A, P resident of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 20 0 9 , as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage citi- z ens, G overnment agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to j oin in activities that will help Ameri- cans understand what they can do to prevent and control breast cancer. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of September, in the year of our L ord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth. BARACK OBAMA Proclam a ti o n8426 o fSep tem b er 30, 200 9Nation a lD i s a b ilit yEmp loym e nt Aw a r eness M ont h,20 0 9BythePr e sid e n t of the U nited S t a tes of Am eri c a A Proc l amation Fair access to employment is a fundamental right of every American, including the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. A job can provide financial stability, help maximize our potential, and allow us to achieve our dreams. As Americans, we possess a range of vocational opportunities to make the most of our talents and succeed in a chosen career
those with disabilities are entitled to the same op- portunities. D uring National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recommit ourselves to implementing effective policies and prac- tices that increase employment opportunities for individuals with dis- abilities. In the past half-century, we have made great strides toward providing equal employment opportunities in America, but much work remains to be done. As part of that continuing effort, we must seek to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Only then can Ameri-
