Acknowledging that
“our young country is home to an ancient, noble, and
enduring native culture,” President Bush has proclaimed
November as National American Indian Heritage Month.
In a November 2 proclamation, the president
said that during November the nation should celebrate “the
vibrant and living traditions” of the first Americans.
The president said in the proclamation that
his administration, over the past four years, has provided
more than $1 billion for the construction and renovation
of Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. Bush underscored his
commitment to work with tribal leaders to provide Native
American students with a superior education that respects
their communities’ unique cultures.
For additional information, see Native
Americans.
The text of the presidential proclamation
follows:
(begin text)
THE WHITE HOUSE
For Immediate Release
November 2, 2005
NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH,
2005
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
National American Indian Heritage Month
honors the many contributions and accomplishments of American
Indians and Alaska Natives. During November, we remember
the legacy of the first Americans and celebrate their vibrant
and living traditions.
The American Indian experience is central
to the American story, and my Administration is committed
to helping Native American cultures across the United States
continue to flourish. One of the most important ways to
ensure a successful future is through education. Over the
past 4 years, my Administration has provided more than $1
billion for the construction and renovation of Bureau of
Indian Affairs schools. We also offer direct assistance
for educator and counselor training to help make sure every
classroom has a qualified teacher and every child has the
tools he or she needs to succeed. As we work with tribal
leaders to provide students with a superior education that
respects the unique culture and traditions of the community,
we can help ensure every child has the opportunity to realize
their dreams.
To enhance energy opportunities and strengthen
tribal economies, my Administration is working to ease the
regulatory barriers associated with tribal energy development.
In August, I signed the Energy Policy Act of 2005, allocating
$2 billion in the form of grants, loans, and loan guarantees
for exploration, development, and production of energy.
This legislation will help ensure that latest energy technologies
are being used throughout our country.
Since the earliest days of our Republic,
Native Americans have played a vital role in our country's
freedom and security. From the Revolutionary War scouts
to the Code Talkers of World War II, Native Americans have
served in all branches of America's Armed Forces. Today,
that proud tradition continues, with Native Americans bravely
defending our country in Operations Enduring Freedom and
Iraqi Freedom and helping to spread liberty around the world.
America is grateful to all our service men and women who
serve and sacrifice in the defense of freedom.
Our young country is home to an ancient,
noble, and enduring native culture, and my Administration
recognizes the defining principles of tribal sovereignty
and the right to self-determination. By working together,
government to government, on important education, economic,
and energy initiatives, we can strengthen America and build
a future of hope and promise for all Native Americans. This
month, we pay tribute to the American Indians and Alaska
Natives who continue to shape our Nation. I encourage all
citizens to learn more about the rich heritage of Native
Americans.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President
of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim November 2005 as National American
Indian Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate
this month with appropriate programs and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand this second day of October, in the year of our Lord
two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
(end text)
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