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 Proc. 7594 Title 3--The President IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sev- enth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7594 of September 16, 2002 Citizenship Day and Constitution Week, 2002 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general WelJbre, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and estab]ish this Constitution for the United States of America. With these words, written more than 200 years ago, our Forefathers laid the foundations for a great Nation, adopting a Constitution that has since prov- en to be an enduring and true guide for American government. The Con- stitution's powerful framework for establishing and preserving liberty, jus- tice, and opportunity has enabled us to prosper as a Nation and thrive as a people through more than two centuries of political change, social trans- formation, and economic challenge. The Founders secured the principles expressed in the Declaration of Inde- pendence by establishing a government that derives its power from the con- sent of the American people. The government established by the Constitu- tion formed a remarkably resilient structure, balancing necessary authority with inherent freedoms, national unity with individual rights, and Federal interests with State powers. In setting this foundation, the Founders also recognized the potential for necessary change. They included a constitu- tional amendment process, which has proven to be a vitally important mechanism for achieving equality and fairness for all our citizens. Our Constitution is sustained by Americans who daily defend the prin- ciples of democracy and freedom. We understand that with great privileges come great responsibilities. Citizenship not only involves a commitment to our Nation but also to our neighbors and those in need. Over the past year, we have seen many outstanding examples of selfless sacrifice, courageous compassion, and true generosity. We remain committed to building a cul- ture of service and responsibility that inspires citizens to reach out to the needy, take leadership in improving our communities, and participate fully in our democratic process. Today, the United States stands as a beacon of democracy and tolerance, inviting the nations of the world to pursue justice, provide freedom, and protect liberty for their people. As we face the challenges of a new era, we remain resolved and vigilant in the defense of life and liberty against tyr- anny and terror. Drawing strength and guidance from our Constitution, we will work to ensure that the blessings of American liberty endure and ex- tend for generations to come. 134

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