Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 107 Part 3.djvu/827

 PROCLAMATION 6629—NOV. 24, 1993 107 STAT. 2765 sis, we have recalled the importance of our national family tree, always returning to the promise of its protective shade. As families across the country gather in thanksgiving, it is particularly appropriate that we pause as a Nation to acknowledge the blessings of love and loyalty that families bring to their members and through them, to the community of America. Like our democracy, all of our families must strive to be nurturing and steady. All of our children, grandparents, mothers and fathers must know that no matter the challenges we face, we can be secure in the love and support of a family. This lesson is among our founders' most precious gifts. Fulfilling their ideal is each generation's most profound responsibility. The Congress, by House Joint Resolution 79, has designated the week of November 21, 1993, and the week of November 20, 1994, as "National Family Week" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of these weeks. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week of November 21, 1993, and the week of November 20, 1994, as National Family Week. I invite y the States, communities, and people of the United States to observe these weeks with appropriate ceremonies and programs in appreciation of our Nation's families. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereimto set my hand this twenty-second day of November, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighteenth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 6629 of November 24, 1993 National Adoption Week, 1993 and 1994 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our Nation's families are the guardians and first teachers of our most valuable resoiu'ce and our primary responsibility—our children. Unfortunately, too many children do not have the opportunity to live and flourish in a family of their own. They have been orphaned, abandoned, neglected, or abused. They have been denied the protection and nurturing that a loving family environment can best provide. Now is the time to break the grip of the great crisis of the spirit that has far too long held our Nation. Now we can begin to bring about a change. There is much for each of us to contribute. During National Adoption Week, it is vitally important for all of us to recognize the joys adoption can bring to the lives of children who are in need. For children who have been deprived of belonging to a secure, loving, and permanent home, an adoptive family can provide the most important ingredient in a child's life—love. This Thanksgiving week, families across America will gather to give thanks to God for the blessings we all enjoy as individuals and as a Nation. Children who have no permanent families, who are waiting to

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