Letter from the President
NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH, 2012
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
As a Nation that believes all children deserve the chance to reach
their full potential, we have a fundamental responsibility to ensure
each of them grows up knowing the love and protection of a permanent
family. During National Adoption Month, we give voice to children who
are still waiting for that opportunity, celebrate the bond that unites
adoptive parents with their sons and daughters, and recommit to
providing every child with the care and security that will nurture their
development and well-being.
Later this month, many Americans will also mark National Adoption Day
by completing a foster care adoption and embracing a new member of
their family. Driven by reasons unique to their households but united by
the spirit of compassion that moves all who choose to adopt, these
parents will take up our country's most important task -- the work of
raising our sons and daughters. As we celebrate the contributions of
adoptive parents across our Nation, let us also strive to eliminate
discriminatory barriers that would separate foster children from a
loving family. Adoptive families come in many forms, and it is essential
that all qualified adults have the opportunity to care for a child in
need.
My Administration remains committed to helping every child find a
loving home. We have partnered with faith-based and community
organizations across America to help connect children with adoptive
parents, and we continue to work with State, local, and tribal
governments to improve child outcomes; enhance safety, permanency, and
well-being; and support adoptive families. I was proud to sign the
Affordable Care Act and the International Adoption Simplification Act,
which have made it easier for families to adopt, as well as the Child
and Family Services Improvement and Innovation Act, which will help
reduce the length of time young children are without families. We have
built on those efforts as part of the National Adoption Campaign, which
continues to bring adoption and foster care into our national
conversation.
Thousands of children living in America hope for the comfort and
safety of a loving family. This month, we pay tribute to the dedicated
professionals who help make those children's dreams a reality, sharpen
our resolve to find a permanent home for every child, and celebrate the
stories of all whose lives have been touched by adoption.
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 2012 as
National Adoption Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month
by answering the call to find a permanent and caring family for every
child in need, and by supporting the families who care for them.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA
