Presidential Mother's Day Proclamation




Presidential Mother's Day Proclamation 1996
White House Press Release
Mother's Day, 1996

The White House
Office of the Press Secretary

A Proclamation

America's mothers hold a special place in our hearts,
providing the lessons and care that have enabled
generations of children to embrace the opportunities
of this great land. They embody the compassion,
devotion, and energy that have always defined our
national character, and their daily efforts anchor
our country's commitment to the fundamental values
of respect and tolerance. Mothers impart both the
strength that enables us to face our challenges
and the love that comforts and sustains us.

As we honor our Nation's mothers for past
and present accomplishments, we recognize that
mothers' roles have changed significantly in
recent years. Today, mothers are CEOs and
teachers, physicians and nurses, elected officials
and PTA presidents, police officers and volunteers,
homemakers and heads of households. Many
serve on the front lines of the struggle
against violence and poverty. These women--
problem-solvers, caregivers, and teachers--are
using their talents in every sector of our
society, helping all Americans to look forward
with hope and faith in the future.

Mother's Day has long been a welcome opportunity
to celebrate motherhood and to remember our
mothers -- whether biological, foster, or adoptive.
To reflect on all we have gained from our mothers'
guidance and to remember their sacrifices,
the Congress, by a joint resolution approved
May 8, 1914 (38 Stat. 770), has designated
the second Sunday in May each year as
"Mother's Day," and requested the President
to call for its appropriate observance.

Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President
of the United States of America, do hereby
proclaim May 12, 1996, as Mother's Day.
I urge all Americans to express their gratitude
for the many contributions made by our mothers
and to observe this day with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand
this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America
the two hundred and twentieth.

William J. Clinton

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