Proclamation 9372-Thanksgiving Day, 2015
Issued 2015-11-20 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued a proclamation designating November 26, 2015, as a National Day of Thanksgiving. This is a ceremonial declaration that formally recognizes the holiday and encourages Americans to gather together to give thanks. The proclamation does not create any new laws or impose requirements on citizens—it simply expresses the President's sentiment on behalf of the nation and draws attention to the meaning of Thanksgiving.
The proclamation recalls the historical origins of Thanksgiving, describing how the Wampanoag helped the Pilgrims survive by teaching them survival techniques and crop cultivation methods, leading to a shared harvest dinner. It honors military service members and their families, and encourages Americans to express gratitude by welcoming others to their celebrations and recognizing those who volunteer to help people in need on Thanksgiving Day.
This type of ceremonial proclamation has been issued by presidents since George Washington and falls within long-standing executive tradition. It requires no congressional approval and creates no legal obligations—it is purely a symbolic statement marking the holiday and its significance to the nation.
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Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9372-Thanksgiving Day, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to thanksgiving. 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, 2015 Proclamation 9372—Thanksgiving Day, 2015 November 20, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Rooted in a story of generosity and partnership, Thanksgiving offers an opportunity for us to express our gratitude for the gifts we have and to show our appreciation for all we hold dear. Today, as we give of ourselves in service to others and spend cherished time with family and friends, we give thanks for the many blessings bestowed upon us. We also honor the men and women in uniform who fight to safeguard our country and our freedoms so we can share occasions like this with loved ones, and we thank our selfless military families who stand beside and support them each and every day. Our modern celebration of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early 17th century. Upon arriving in Plymouth, at the culmination of months of testing travel that resulted in death and disease, the Pilgrims continued to face great challenges. An indigenous people, the Wampanoag, helped them adjust to their new home, teaching them critical survival techniques and important crop cultivation methods. After securing a bountiful harvest, the settlers and Wampanoag joined in fellowship for a shared dinner to celebrate pow