Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 124.djvu/4692

 124 STAT. 4666 PROCLAMATION 8542—JULY 26, 2010 The Cold War is over, but its history holds lessons for us today. In the face of cynicism and stifled opportunity, the world saw daring individ- uals who held fast to the idea that the world can change and walls could come down. Their courageous struggles and ultimate success— and the enduring conviction of all who keep the light of freedom alive—remind us that human destiny will be what we make of it. The journey towards worldwide freedom and democracy sought in 1959 remains unfinished. Today, we still observe the profound dif- ferences between governments that reflect the will of their people, and those that sustain power by force; between nations striving for equal justice and rule of law, and those that deny their citizens freedom of religion, expression, and peaceful assembly; and between states that are open and accountable, and those that restrict the flow of ideas and information. The United States has a special responsibility to bear wit- ness to those whose voices are silenced, and to stand alongside those who yearn to exercise their universal human rights. In partnership with like-minded governments, we must reinforce multi- lateral institutions and international partnerships that safeguard human rights and democratic values. We must empower embattled civil soci- eties and help their people connect with one another and the global community through new technologies. And, with faith in the future, we must always stand with the courageous advocates, organizations, and ordinary citizens around the world who fearlessly fight for limit- less opportunity and unfettered freedom. The Congress, by Joint Resolution, approved July 17, 1959 (73 Stat. 212), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclama- tion designating the third week of July of each year as ‘‘Captive Na- tions Week.’’ NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim July 18 through July 24, 2010, as Captive Nations Week. I call upon the people of the United States to reaffirm our deep commitment to all those working for human rights and dignity around the globe. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- fifth. BARACK OBAMA Proclamation 8542 of July 26, 2010 Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act, 2010 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990, a founding truth of our Nation was realized for persons living with disabilities—that all our citizens are entitled to the same privi- leges, pursuits, and civil rights. As we mark the 20th anniversary of this historic legislation, we renew our commitment to ensuring that ev-