Human Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day, and Human Rights Week, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
Peace and justice prevail when people are free to speak, assemble,
and worship, when their rights are protected, and when governments are
accountable to their citizens. These blessings of freedom are guaranteed
for Americans in the Bill of Rights of our Constitution. During Human
Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day, and Human Rights Week, we celebrate the
ideals of our founders and reaffirm the belief that freedom is the gift
of God and the right of all mankind.
Just over six decades ago, the future of freedom seemed bleak, with
only a small number of democracies around the world. Today, citizens of
over 100 nations enjoy the blessings of democracy, and freedom is taking
root in places where liberty had been unimaginable. The United States
will continue to support the growth of democratic movements and
institutions in every nation.
The advance of freedom is the story of our time, and new chapters are
being written before our eyes. Around the world, freedom is replacing
tyranny and giving men and women the opportunity to enjoy lives of
purpose and dignity. Because Americans are committed to the God given
value of every life, we cherish the freedom of every person in every
nation and strive to promote respect for human rights. By standing with
those who desire liberty, we will help extend freedom to many who have
not known it and lay the foundations of peace for generations to come.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, 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 December 10, 2006, as
Human Rights Day; December 15, 2006, as Bill of Rights Day; and the week
beginning December 10, 2006, as Human Rights Week. I call upon the
people of the United States to mark these observances with appropriate
ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of
December, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-first.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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