Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 118.djvu/4176

 118 STAT. 4146 PROCLAMATION 7798—JUNE 22, 2004 As we honor our fathers on this day, we express our heartfelt apprecia- tion for their leadership, support, and protection for their children and families. We particularly recognize the many fathers who are far from home, serving our Nation and defending the cause of freedom around the world. They have answered a great call and live by a code of honor and duty that serves as an example for their sons and daughters and for all Americans. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress approved April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby pro- claim June 20, 2004, as Father’s Day. I encourage all Americans to ex- press love, admiration, and thanks to their fathers for their contribu- tions to our lives and to society. I direct the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on this day. I also call upon State and local governments and citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7798 of June 22, 2004 Black Music Month, 2004 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation The creativity and variety of African-American composers, singers, and musicians have shaped America’s artistic and cultural landscape. Dur- ing Black Music Month, we celebrate and honor the extraordinary im- pact of African-American music on our Nation’s musical heritage. The artistry of black musicians changes as each generation brings new talent and trends. Yet, there is a continuous theme. From the profound spirituality of African indigenous faith that influenced gospel, through the development of blues and jazz, to the emergence of rhythm and blues and rock and roll, we hear the richness of the African-American experience, past and present. The earliest African-American music echoed the struggle of the op- pressed, the trust of the faithful, and the endurance of the weary. We hear the voice of hope in work songs, hymns, psalms, and spirituals. The musical expression that captured the struggle for freedom and equality formed the foundation for gospel, blues, and jazz. African- American churchgoers transformed early spirituals into gospel music, giving voice to praises that still move listeners today. In the early 20th century, performers like Ida Cox and Tommy Johnson gave life to the improvised performances and style of the blues. As artists migrated to cities, the blues developed into an urban phenomenon and evolved into a major force in contemporary music. VerDate 11-MAY-2000 15:04 Nov 10, 2005 Jkt 029194 PO 00000 Frm 00112 Fmt 8087 Sfmt 8087 C:\STATUTES\2004\29194PT4.004 APPS10 PsN: 29194PT4

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