>BTW, what is the history behing the 'labor day' in this country. A
>government bureacrat fiat?
>
>Another issue, has anyone thought of the idea of reparations to labor for
>miscarriages of justice by agents of this state?
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary ------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release April 25, 2001
LOYALTY DAY, 2001
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Two hundred and twenty-five years ago, America's founders faced a decisive crossroads. Thomas Jefferson later remembered "the bold and doubtful election we were to make for our country, between submission or the sword." They chose the sword, and a Nation was born.
Today, we celebrate our loyalty to this country and to the principles for which America stands. Americans demonstrate their dedication by protecting our Nation and its people, promoting our commonly held ideals, and passing these values on to future generations.
Many Americans display their loyalty through careers in public service. Members of our Armed Forces ensure that our Nation remains strong and secure, as well as defend democracy around the world. Domestically, law enforcement officers and the professionals working in our judicial system maintain the peace and uphold the rule of law on which our society depends. Countless other Americans also work to protect us from dangers that threaten our safety and resources.
Americans have not let the dream of "a more perfect Union" fade with the passing of time. Rather, each new generation, along with millions of immigrants, has promoted ideals that lead to the archetype that the founders envisioned. Heroes have risen to fight for freedom, abolition of slavery, universal suffrage, civil rights, and other principles that form the foundation of our Nation. Today, citizens across the country continue this tradition by giving their time and effort to causes greater than themselves. Whether through charitable, civic, or church activities, Americans demonstrate their loyalty by working to improve our country and the lives of its people.
Perhaps the most basic and important means by which we display loyalty to our country is by passing on to our children the hope and idealism that is an important part of the American spirit. Parents have the important task in ensuring that our Nation's future leaders are prepared to assume the responsibilities they will face. Teachers play essential roles in molding our young people, and they deserve our gratitude and respect for their dedication. Ministers and other mentors also give of themselves by introducing children to the vast opportunities that our Nation holds. By spending time with a child, Americans invest in the future of our country.
Loyalty Day recognizes the solemn bond between America and its citizens. It provides an opportunity to recognize those who demonstrate their loyalty every day and challenges all of us to find more ways to contribute to the greater good of our country.
The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, has designated May 1 of each year, as "Loyalty Day," and I encourage all Americans to join me this day in reaffirming our allegiance to our blessed Nation.
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 of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2001, as Loyalty Day. I call upon all the people of the United States in support of this national observance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary ------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release May 1, 2001
LAW DAY, U.S.A., 2001
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
This year marks the 44th commemoration of May 1 as Law Day, U.S.A., a national day of observance to celebrate our legal heritage. On this occasion, we reflect on the role our legal system plays in the lives of every American and how the freedoms we enjoy would not be possible without a strong and independent judiciary. The theme of this year's Law Day, "Ensuring the Rights of Victims," acknowledges our gratitude for a legal system that recognizes the importance of protecting the rights of those who are victimized by crime.
This Law Day, I call upon all Americans to consider how the law, communities, and individuals can better assist and support victims of crime. We must continue to strive for a legal system in which victims receive timely and accurate information regarding offenders and relevant public proceedings. In appropriate circumstances, a victim of crime should have an opportunity for restitution. In addition, social services provided to victims of crime can give the assistance and support that victims deserve in the aftermath of crime.
We are encouraged by the progress our country has made over the last three decades toward better assisting those whose lives are affected by criminal offenses. However, government and laws cannot effectively address this issue alone. More than 10,000 State- or community-based organizations provide help and hope to crime victims. I encourage Americans to celebrate, support, and consider joining these volunteers and other workers in service to their fellow citizens.
Keeping faith with our commitment to the victims of crime also drives us to increased efforts to prevent crimes and effectively punish those who commit them, to ensure that similar violations are discouraged and law-abiding citizens are protected.
Law Day provides an opportunity to express appreciation to professionals who accept the responsibility to serve justice. From attorneys to judges to the many other professionals working in our legal system, those who serve justice uphold the rule of law on which our democracy is built. They join with law enforcement professionals to give our people confidence to live without fear for their safety.
We must each do our part to build a Nation in which civility and respect for our neighbors overwhelm the powers of injustice. As Thomas Jefferson wrote, "It is reasonable that every one who asks justice should do justice." I encourage all Americans to join with members of the legal community in protecting the rights of crime victims and in celebrating a legal system that, while not perfect, is the best the world has ever known.
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 May 1, 2001, as Law Day, U.S.A. I call upon all the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also call upon Government officials to display the flag of the United States in support of this national observance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth.
GEORGE W. BUSH