Proclamation 7191.

5,836 words·~27 min read·/statutes-at-large/vol-113/proclamation-7191

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

113 STAT. 2079 Proclamation 7191 of April 30, 1999 Law Day, U.S.A., 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation America’s founders recognized that the rule of law is the greatest guarantor of freedom and justice, the crucial barricade protecting civilization from chaos, democracy from tyranny. Among the chief grievances they enumerated in the Declaration of Independence were that “; the present King of Great Britain . . . has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public Good. . . .

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the Tenure of their Offices, and the Amount and Payment of their Salaries.” The Constitution and Bill of Rights reflect our founders’ reverence for and faith in the rule of law, and they stand as an enduring charter of freedom and equality that continues to protect our fundamental rights today. But only the passage of additional laws over time has fulfilled the promise of justice enshrined in that charter. Amendments abolishing slavery and guaranteeing due process and equal protection to everyone came only after the Civil War—nearly 80 years after the ratification of the Constitution.

It took almost another century, and the courageous and persistent efforts of lawyers such as Thurgood Marshall, to establish that the equal protection clause prohibits governments from enforcing segregation in schools and other public arenas. Women did not gain the right to vote until the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920. During the past 4 decades, our Nation has continued to pursue the ideals of justice and equality. President Kennedy and President Johnson fought to enact what would become the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, laws that safeguard the rights of citizens to vote, to work, to use public accommodations, and to attend school free from illegal discrimination.

In 1967, President Johnson signed the Age Discrimination in Employment Act to protect older Americans against discriminatory treatment in their jobs. In 1990, President Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that recognizes the right of people with disabilities to have equal opportunity for employment and equal access to public services. Building on the Americans with Disabilities Act, I announced a new initiative in January of this year to remove significant barriers that prevent people with disabilities from joining the work force.

We will invest more than two billion dollars over the next 5 years to provide tax credits to offset critical and expensive transportation costs, increased funding for assistive technology research, and greater access to health care for people with disabilities. In May of 1998, I was proud to sign Executive Order 13087, which amends Federal equal employment opportunity policy to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in the Federal civilian work force. My Administration is working with congressional leaders to pass the Employment Non–Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would prohibit most private employers from firing good workers solely because they are gay or lesbian.

And we must secure equal pay legislation to 113 STAT. 2080ensure that women and minority employees receive fair compensation for their work. America’s trust in the rule of law and our continuing quest for equality under the law have defined our history for more than 200 years. Now, as we look forward to a new century, we must renew our commitment to the spirit of our Constitution and the strong foundation of civil rights laws that guarantee both our freedom and our security. We must reaffirm our goal of building an America where all people have an equal opportunity to reach their full potential and where no American is denied his or her rights because of race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or disability.

By doing so, we will fulfill our founders’ vision of a Nation where all citizens share equally in the blessings and protections of the law. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, in accordance with Public Law 87–20 of April 7, 1961, do hereby proclaim May 1, 1999, as Law Day. I urge the people of the United States to consider a new how our laws protect our freedoms and contribute to our national well–being. I call upon members of the legal profession, civic associations, educators, librarians, public officials, and the media to promote the observance of this day with appropriate programs and activities.

I also call upon public officials to display the flag of the United States on all government buildings throughout the day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety–nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty–third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7192 April 30, 1999 Loyalty Day, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7192 of April 30, 1999 Loyalty Day, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Born in the twilight of the 18th century, our great Nation has grown and flourished, surviving a civil war, the Great Depression, two World Wars, and the Cold War to emerge at the dawn of the 21st century as the world’s best hope for freedom.

The success of that journey of challenge and change was no accident. In 1787, when our founders came together to sign the Constitution and “secure the Blessings of Liberty,” honor individual rights, and guarantee equality, they laid the foundations of a country that would inspire the lasting loyalty and love of its citizens. The courage and sacrifice of generations of Americans who have served in our Armed Forces have sustained the vision of our Nation’s founders. From the fields near Lexington and Concord to the skies over Belgrade, nearly 50 million citizens have placed themselves in harm’s way to defend our freedom, promote our values, and advance our interests around the world.

Many of them have died in the process, willing 113 STAT. 2081to make the ultimate sacrifice out of loyalty and devotion to our beloved country. Millions of other generous men and women have proved their loyalty here at home. They have enriched the lives of their fellow Americans by volunteering in civic, religious, and school organizations. Throughout the decades, they have worked to expand America’s promise of justice and equality to all our people, promoting civil rights, economic and educational opportunity, and political empowerment.

In every era, they have worked to address this country’s challenges and renew our legacy of citizen service. In doing so, they have strengthened our Nation from within and provided a symbol of hope around the world for those who seek refuge in a land where individual rights are revered and where their children can grow up in peace and freedom. Recognizing the importance of loyalty to the continued strength of our country and success of our democracy, the Congress, by Public Law85–529, has designated May 1 of each year as “Loyalty Day.

” On this day, let us reflect with pride on our great country and remember with gratitude the contributions of the many loyal and courageous Americans who have given so much of themselves both at home and around the world to preserve our freedom. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 1999, as Loyalty Day. I urge all Americans to recognize the heritage of American freedom, to honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed in defense of that freedom, and to express our loyalty to our Nation through appropriate patriotic programs, 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 nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7193 May 5, 1999 National Day of Prayer, 19999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7193 of May 5, 1999 National Day of Prayer, 19999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation From our earliest days, whether in times of joy or of challenge, Americans have raised their hearts and voices in prayer.

On the Great Plains, American Indians prayed for peace and for blessings upon their children and their friends. The Pilgrims prayed from the moment they first set foot on this continent. Our Nation’s founders prayed as they forged a democracy based on freedom and respect for human rights. Our military leaders and the millions of men and women who have served in our Armed Forces have prayed in the midst of every conflict in which our Nation has fought. And so it continues to this day, as Americans of every race, background, and creed pray in churches, mosques, syna-113 STAT. 2082gogues, temples, and their own homes for guidance, wisdom, and courage in confronting the challenges before us.

We can pray openly thanks to the religious freedom guaranteed for us by the First Amendment to the Constitution. That freedom and the diversity of faiths it has fostered are among America’s most important achievements. They have made our Nation a beacon for generations of people from around the world who have traveled here seeking to worship according to their conscience without fear of coercion or constraint. On this National Day of Prayer, observed so soon after the tragedy in Littleton, Colorado, and the tornadoes that devastated communities in Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma, we are more keenly aware than ever of the power and solace we find in prayer.

Throughout the days that have followed the deaths of and injury to so many of our fellow citizens, Americans have united in prayer for those who died or were harmed, for the comfort and peace of their families, for the wisdom to heal our society, and for the strength to overcome such tragedies. For as Martin Luther King, Jr., so eloquently said, “When our days become dreary with low-hovering clouds of despair, and when our nights become darker than a thousand midnights, let us remember that there is a creative force in this universe . . . a power that is able to make a way out of no way and transform dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows.

” The Congress, by Public Law 100–307, has called on our citizens to reaffirm the role of prayer in our society and to honor the religious diversity our freedom permits by recognizing annually a “National Day of Prayer.” NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 6, 1999, as a National Day of Prayer. I encourage the citizens of this great Nation to pray, each in his or her own manner, seeking strength from God to face the problems of today, requesting guidance for the uncertainties of tomorrow, and giving thanks for the rich blessings that our country has enjoyed throughout its history.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7194 May 5, 1999 Mother’s Day 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7194 of May 5, 1999 Mother’s Day 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation There is nothing more precious than the bond between a mother and her child.

With unconditional love and infinite patience, our mothers nurture us throughout our lives, helping us to meet life’s challenges and achieve our dreams. Mothers—whether biological or adoptive, foster or stepmothers—are the cornerstones of our families, and our fami-113 STAT. 2083lies are the foundation of our Nation. Mothers are the bridges that link America’s best promise to its brightest reality. The role of women has changed dramatically in the last half-century, bringing exciting new opportunities as well as fresh challenges.

Today, our mothers can be mayors and managers, heads of households and homemakers—yet they still make us the center of their lives and the focus of their love. Regardless of whether they work inside or outside the home, we still turn to our mothers when we need reassurance, advice, or comfort. Devotion and love, loyalty and selflessness—these are the traits that define motherhood. For 85 years, we have reserved the second Sunday in May as a special day to honor our mothers for their strength, nobility, and generosity.

In so many ways, we owe our successes—and those of our Nation—to the loving influence of our mothers. Although we can never repay them for their gift of life and love, we can honor them in person or cherish their beloved memory. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 8, 1914 (38 Stat. 770), has designated the second Sunday in May of 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 9, 1999, as Mother’s Day.

I urge all Americans to express their love and appreciation for their mothers on this day and every day and to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7195 May 10, 1999 Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7195 of May 10, 1999 Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Whether working in big cities, suburban communities, or small rural towns, America’s law enforcement officers serve each day as a defense against the forces of crime and brutality.

These courageous men and women defend our lives with their own. All too often they pay the ultimate price for their dedication, as America saw again this past year when an armed intruder invaded the United States Capitol and gunned down Officer Jacob J. Chestnut and Detective John M. Gibson. These brave men were husbands, fathers, neighbors, and friends. We must honor and remember their sacrifice and the loss of the loved ones they left behind. We must also remember that the heroes who died defending the U.S.

Capitol were just 2 of the 61 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty last year. Firearms took all but 3 of these lives. In addition, 78 officers died in tragic accidents. All of their memories live on, not 113 STAT. 2084only with their friends and families, but also in the hearts of all of us who enjoy safer, more peaceful lives because of their dedicated service. This week we honor with special gratitude the nearly 600,000 highly trained law enforcement personnel who serve our Nation each day.

Whether working undercover against drug pushers, gang leaders, and terrorists; apprehending fugitives; responding to domestic violence calls; or arresting drunk drivers, these courageous men and women uphold their pledge to preserve the peace and promote the public’s safety. In large part because of their skill and determination, crime rates in our Nation have fallen to the lowest point in 25 years, with the murder rate at its lowest level in 30 years. But the war on crime is a constant and dangerous struggle, and during Police Week—and especially on Peace Officers Memorial Day—we honor those who serve on the front lines of that battle.

By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962 (76 Stat. 676), the Congress has authorized and requested the President to designate May 15 of each year as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week in which it falls as “Police Week,” and, by Public Law 103–322 (36 U.S.C. 167), has requested that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 1999, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 9 through 15, 1999, as Police Week.

I call upon the people of the United States to observe these occasions with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities. I also request the Governors of the States and of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and all areas under its jurisdiction and control.

I also invite all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7196 May 17, 1999 World Trade Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7196 of May 17, 1999 World Trade Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation World Trade Week provides a valuable opportunity to recognize the enormous importance of exports to the United States economy and our way of life.

In recent years, exports have contributed to almost one-third of our economic growth, helping to make today’s economy the strongest in a generation. Unemployment is at a 30-year low, business investment is booming, and private sector growth is on the rise. Every day, an increasing number of U.S. companies and farmers realize how 113 STAT. 2085crucial exports are to their bottom lines. Every day, more and more American workers benefit from the fact that exporting firms pay higher salaries, experience fewer closings, and generate jobs at a faster rate than do firms that do not export.

That is why we must continue to open markets and expand trade opportunities. At the same time, we must work to ensure that increased international trade benefits the world’s people, promotes the dignity of work, and protects the environment and the rights of workers. As important as world trade is to our economy today, we are only beginning to utilize the commercial potential of the newest international marketplace: the World Wide Web. Today the Internet connects nearly 150 million people around the world.

Each day 52,000 additional Americans join that number, and users are making as many as 27 million purchases on the Web each day. Forecasts predict that, in just a few years, global electronic commerce—e-commerce—will grow to more than $300 billion annually. By 2005 Internet usage in countries around the world may account for more than $1 trillion worth of global commerce. Recognizing the enormous power and promise that e-commerce holds for American businesses and consumers, my Administration is working to build a framework for global electronic commerce that will keep competition free and vigorous, protect consumers, guarantee privacy, and give users—not governments—the responsibility of supervising Internet trade.

Working with the Congress, industry, and State and local officials, we have enacted legislation that places a 3-year moratorium on new and discriminatory taxes on electronic commerce. We also ratified an international treaty to protect intellectual property online. Last year, representatives of 132 countries followed our lead and signed a WTO Ministerial Declaration to refrain from imposing customs duties on electronic commerce. Working with our trading partners, industry, and consumer advocates, we are extending traditional consumer protections to the arena of electronic commerce.

Without imposing burdensome regulations that might stifle growth and innovation, we have offered incentives to online companies to give consumers the protections they need to conduct business on the Internet with security and confidence. Finally, we are working to speed the completion of the global information infrastructure, a series of networks that sends messages and images at the speed of light. Appropriately, the theme of this year’s World Trade Day observance is “Trade, a Worldwide Web of Opportunity.

” Linking businesses and customers around the clock, 7 days a week, the Web provides even the smallest companies with the opportunity to do business on a global scale. We are about to enter a new and unprecedented era in world trade, and America’s businesses, workers, and consumers are poised to embrace this opportunity and continue our leadership of the world economy. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, 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 16 through May 22, 1999, as World Trade Week.

I invite the people of the United States to observe this week with events, trade shows, and edu-113 STAT. 2086cational programs that celebrate the benefits of international trade to our economy. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7197 May 17, 1999 National Defense Transportation Day and National Transportation Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7197 of May 17, 1999 National Defense Transportation Day and National Transportation Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Throughout America’s history, our transportation system has played a profound role in the security and development of our Nation.

As early as the Revolutionary War, America’s merchant marine carried cargo to help defend our national interests and uphold our democratic ideals. In the 1800’s, as many Americans migrated westward, new roads and canals facilitated travel and trade, helping to unify our young country and to bolster our growing economy. And in the 20th century, few innovations have had the same far-reaching effect on our society as the airplane—now a critical part of our national defense and our robust economy.

Representing 11 percent of the U.S. economy and related to one in every seven American jobs, today’s transportation industry continues to grow and thrive. Millions of Americans rely on its readiness for business and leisure travel. And we can be pleased by the improved safety of our transportation system. In 1998, the rate of traffic fatalities in America fell to its lowest level since record-keeping began in 1966. Last year also marked a milestone in aviation safety when, for the first time in our history, there were no reported passenger fatalities on scheduled U.S. air carriers.

Securing the continued strength and safety of our transportation system is among my highest priorities as President. My Administration has acted aggressively to improve the security of our rail system, and, by initiating a new program to encourage Americans to buckle their seat belts, we are working to improve the safety of vehicular travel. As we face the challenges of a new century, we must build on these achievements to ensure that our transportation system remains the finest in the world.

Last year, I was proud to sign into law the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), the largest public works legislation in our Nation’s history. TEA-21 invests $198 billion in our transportation infrastructure. The Livable Communities for the 21st Century Initiative represents another integral part of our transportation strategy for the coming century, providing communities with tools and resources to ease traffic congestion, preserve green space, and pursue wise regional growth strategies.

These comprehensive programs will help communities 113 STAT. 2087across America create a higher quality of living and secure sustainable economic growth as we work to forge more livable communities for ourselves and for the next generation of Americans. In recognition of the ongoing contributions of our Nation’s transportation system and in honor of the devoted professionals who work to sustain its tradition of excellence, the United States Congress, by joint resolution approved May 16, 1957 (36 U.S.C. 120), has designated the third Friday in May of each year as “National Defense Transportation Day” and, by joint resolution approved May 14, 1962 (36 U.S.C. 133), declared that the week in which that Friday falls be designated “National Transportation Week.

” NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Friday, May 21, 1999, as National Defense Transportation Day and May 16 through May 22, 1999, as National Transportation Week. I urge all Americans to observe these occasions with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third.

WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7198 May 20, 1999 National Safe Boating Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7198 of May 20, 1999 National Safe Boating Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation In America, a country bordered by oceans and blessed with numerous lakes and rivers, recreational boating enjoys a long and proud tradition. From generation to generation, families pass on their appreciation of the water and share the pleasures of nature’s beauty and bounty.

Annually, more than 74 million Americans take part in recreational boating activities with their families and friends. While boating is a wonderful form of recreation, it can also present many dangers. Human error and poor judgment contribute to most recreational boating accidents. Recent statistics indicate that 86 percent of all boating accidents are attributable to operator-controlled factors, such as excessive speed, inattention, failure to follow required navigation rules and practices, and lack of knowledge about boats and the boating environment.

Even with adequate training and preparation, boaters can still have accidents. That is why it is crucial for everyone using our waterways to wear a life jacket. Recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics indicate that 90 percent of drowning victims were not wearing life preservers. Most of the victims were small boat users—many in remote areas. In such potentially dangerous circumstances, wearing a life jacket is essential. This message is so important that the National Safe Boating Campaign theme for the second year is “Boat Smart from the Start! Wear Your Life Jacket!” 113 STAT. 2088 Many recreational boating organizations, including the National Safe Boating Council and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, as well as the U.S.

Coast Guard, other Federal agencies, and State and local governments continue to help save lives by reminding us of the importance of wearing life preservers and following safe navigation rules. However, each individual must take responsibility for his or her personal safety and for the well-being of family and friends. By taking appropriate precautions, we can all enjoy our Nation’s waterways safely and securely. In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the Congress, by joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as amended, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually the 7-day period ending on the last Friday before Memorial Day as “National Safe Boating Week.

” NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22 through 28, 1999, as National Safe Boating Week. I encourage the governors of the 50 States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to join in observing this occasion and to urge all Americans to practice safe boating habits not only during this week, but also throughout the year. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third.

WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7199 May 21, 1999 National Maritime Day, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7199 of May 21, 1999 National Maritime Day, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation The history of the United States has always been linked to the sea. For more than 2 centuries, American ships and crews have made enormous contributions to the strength of our economy, the security of our shores, and the success of our efforts to create a more peaceful, prosperous world.

Today’s U.S. Merchant Marine is building on that rich maritime heritage. Our commercial ships and marine infrastructure—and the dedicated men and women who are part of our maritime industry and U.S. Merchant Marine—continue to meet the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing marketplace and the expanding globalization of trade. Our merchant fleet is a key component of our Nation’s intermodal transportation system, carrying more than one billion tons of cargo between domestic ports and supporting our connection to overseas markets.

The fleet helps facilitate our engagement in world affairs and helps protect U.S. national security interests. Recognizing that a strong America requires a strong merchant marine, my Administration has worked closely with the Congress to promote 113 STAT. 2089the development and maintenance of a modem, efficient, well-balanced merchant fleet, capable of facilitating international commerce and meeting the military needs of our Armed Forces during times of conflict or national emergency.

Through the Maritime Security Program and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement, which implement the Maritime Security Act of 1996, we have forged new public-private partnerships to ensure that our country will maintain a modem commercial fleet owned and operated by U.S. citizens and crewed by well-trained, highly skilled American sailors. We have strengthened U.S. shipyards through the National Shipbuilding Initiative. We also have helped keep our shipbuilding industry competitive in the global marketplace by providing financing guarantees, granting tax deferrals, and making it easier to operate ships under the U.S. flag.

The United States Merchant Marine has served our Nation boldly and well through challenge and change. As we enter a new century, we must reaffirm our commitment to this proud legacy. We must maintain the strength and vitality of our merchant fleet and the skills and training of the men and women who have made America a great maritime Nation. By doing so, we will ensure that U.S.-flag vessels continue to sail the world’s oceans, preserving our leadership of the global economy, strengthening our prosperity, and defending our freedom for generations to come.

In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 1999, as National Maritime Day. I urge all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities and by displaying the flag of the United States in their homes and in their communities.

I also request that all merchant ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7200 May 22, 1999 Small Business Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 7200 of May 22, 1999 Small Business Week, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation From the Industrial Revolution to the Information Age, small businesses have powered the American economy and created much of our prosperity.

Generations of entreprenuers have found in small businesses an outlet for their creativity, the source of their livelihood, and a chance to share in the American Dream. Millions of American con-113 STAT. 2090sumers have found in small businesses the innovative products and vital services they need to improve the quality of their lives. Today, America’s 24 million small businesses employ more than half our country’s work force and generate more than $16 trillion in revenue—more than 50 percent of our gross domestic product.

Small firms are also a true avenue of opportunity for women and minorities, for older and younger workers, and for part-time employees and those formerly on public assistance. They provide 67 percent of working Americans with their first job and their initial on-the-job training in basic work skills. My Administration is deeply committed to creating an environment in which small businesses can thrive. Through programs administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA)—such as the business loan guarantee program, the economic development loan program, the microloan program, the small business investment company program, and the disaster loan and surety bond programs—we have given small business owners access to financial assistance.

Last year alone, the SBA guaranteed almost $11 billion in loans to small businesses, provided technical and management assistance to almost a million people, and helped entrepreneurs compete for more than $33 billion in Federal contracts. Through tax relief and regulatory streamlining and by opening overseas markets and providing export assistance, we are helping America's small businesses compete successfully in the global marketplace. The men and women who own and manage America’s small businesses have made enormous contributions to the technological innovations, job growth, and prosperity we enjoy today.

But those contributions cannot be measured in dollars and cents alone; entrepreneurs give back to their communities in myriad ways, making them better places in which to live and work. During Small Business Week, we have a special opportunity—and obligation—to acknowledge the achievements of small business men and women and to express our appreciation for the vision, energy, and effort they bring to their enterprises. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, 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 23 through May 29, 1999, as Small Business Week.

I call upon Government officials and all the people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs that celebrate the achievements of small business owners and encourage the development of new enterprises. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third.

WILLIAM J. CLINTON 7201 May 26, 1999 Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 1999 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation

Connectionstraces to 6

Traces to 6 documents