Special Observances:

Federal Register: November 4, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 213)

Presidential Documents

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From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

DOCID:fr04no10-120

Presidential Documents

Page 67907

Proclamation 8595 of October 29, 2010

National Native American Heritage Month, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For millennia before Europeans settled in North

America, the indigenous peoples of this continent flourished with vibrant cultures and were the original stewards of the land. From generation to generation, they handed down invaluable cultural knowledge and rich traditions, which continue to thrive in Native American communities across our country today. During National

Native American Heritage Month, we honor and celebrate their importance to our great Nation and our world.

America's journey has been marked both by bright times of progress and dark moments of injustice for American

Indians and Alaska Natives. Since the birth of America, they have contributed immeasurably to our country and our heritage, distinguishing themselves as scholars, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in all aspects of our society. Native Americans have also served in the

United States Armed Forces with honor and distinction, defending the security of our Nation with their lives.

Yet, our tribal communities face stark realities, including disproportionately high rates of poverty, unemployment, crime, and disease. These disparities are unacceptable, and we must acknowledge both our history and our current challenges if we are to ensure that all of our children have an equal opportunity to pursue the

American dream. From upholding the tribal sovereignty recognized and reaffirmed in our Constitution and laws to strengthening our unique nation-to-nation relationship, my Administration stands firm in fulfilling our Nation's commitments.

Over the past 2 years, we have made important steps towards working as partners with Native Americans to build sustainable and healthy native communities. The

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act continues to impact the lives of American Indians and Alaska

Natives, including through important projects to improve, rebuild, and renovate schools so our children can get the education and skills they will need to compete in the global economy. At last year's White

House Tribal Nations Conference, I also announced a new consultation process to improve communication and coordination between the Federal Government and tribal governments.

This year, I was proud to sign the landmark Affordable

Care Act, which permanently reauthorized the Indian

Health Care Improvement Act, a cornerstone of health care for American Indians and Alaska Natives. This vital legislation will help modernize the Indian health care system and improve health care for 1.9 million

American Indians and Alaska Natives. To combat the high rates of crime and sexual violence in Native communities, I signed the Tribal Law and Order Act in

July to bolster tribal law enforcement and enhance their abilities to prosecute and fight crime more effectively. And, recently, my Administration reached a settlement in a lawsuit brought by Native American farmers against the United States Department of

Agriculture that underscores our commitment to treat all our citizens fairly.

As we celebrate the contributions and heritage of

Native Americans during this month, we also recommit to supporting tribal self-determination, security, and prosperity for all Native Americans. While we cannot erase the

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scourges or broken promises of our past, we will move ahead together in writing a new, brighter chapter in our joint history.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the

United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the

United States, do hereby proclaim November 2010 as

National Native American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to celebrate

November 26, 2010, as Native American Heritage Day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United

States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

(Presidential Sig.)

FR Doc. 2010-28088

Filed 11-3-10; 8:45 am

Billing code 3195-W1-P