Proclamation 9424-National Park Week, 2016
Issued 2016-04-15 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation designating April 16-24, 2016 as National Park Week. The proclamation announces that the National Park Service will offer free admission to all America's National Parks during this week, encouraging more people to visit and experience these outdoor spaces. It recognizes the value of National Parks ranging from Denali to the Grand Canyon and emphasizes their role in allowing Americans to discover history, nature, and wildlife.
The proclamation highlights existing administration initiatives including the "Find Your Park" campaign and the "Every Kid in a Park" program, which gives all fourth grade students and their families free admission to federal lands and waters. These programs aim to help more Americans, particularly young people, connect with public lands and historical sites. The proclamation notes that the administration has acted to protect more than 265 million acres of public land and water.
This ceremonial proclamation brings national attention to the National Park Service as it approaches its centennial. The President encourages all Americans to visit their National Parks during this week and participate in scientific, artistic, and athletic activities available there. Such proclamations are a traditional presidential practice that expresses national sentiment and raises public awareness without creating new laws or legal obligations.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9424-National Park Week, 2016" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to park. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2016 Proclamation 9424—National Park Week, 2016 April 15, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our National Parks have allowed generations to discover history, nature, and wildlife in irreplaceable ways. From the highest peaks of Denali to the lowest dips of the Grand Canyon, families around our country enjoy the splendor of the outdoors. Throughout National Park Week, as we celebrate the ways in which our treasured outdoor spaces enrich our lives and uplift our spirits, the National Park Service will again offer free admission to America's National Parks so more people can explore our country's vast natural beauty. National Parks provide unique opportunities to connect with one another and the world around us, and my Administration has encouraged more Americans to take advantage of these wonders. Through the "Find Your Park" campaign, we are helping more people visit public lands and landmarks—from State and local parks that capture our Nation's natural beauty to historical sites that offer unparalleled perspectives into our past. Whether breathtaking sceneries or rushing bodies of water, our National Parks have something for everyone—young and old—and I am commit