Proclamation 9371-National Family Week, 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 this proclamation designating November 22-28, 2015, as National Family Week. This is a ceremonial observance that recognizes and honors American families for their contributions to communities and the country. The proclamation invites states, communities, and individuals to join in observing the week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
The proclamation highlights various policy efforts related to families, including the Affordable Care Act's provision of health insurance to millions, efforts to make paid family leave available so new parents can spend time with newborns while supporting their families, and actions to help states enact paid leave and paid sick leave laws. It also mentions calling on Congress to pass the Healthy Families Act, which would allow workers to earn up to one week of paid sick leave per year, and discusses raising the minimum wage, improving retirement plan access, and enhancing mental health care and education services for veterans and military families through initiatives including Joining Forces.
This proclamation is purely ceremonial and does not create new laws or impose legal obligations on anyone. It expresses presidential recognition of families during a designated week and falls within the longstanding tradition of presidents issuing proclamations to bring national attention to particular causes or communities.
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 9371-National Family Week, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to family. 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 9371—National Family Week, 2015 November 20, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Across the range of diverse experiences and traditions that have been written into our Nation's story, family has remained a steadfast and common foundation. Every day, families offer comfort and support to one another with enduring and unconditional love and they contribute to their communities and our country. During National Family Week, we uplift and honor the families that give so much to forge a brighter future for themselves and for America. All families deserve every opportunity to thrive, and the Affordable Care Act has given millions of American families the peace of mind that comes with health insurance. My Administration is dedicated to helping working families feel more secure in a constantly changing economy, and I have pushed to make paid family leave available for all, so that new parents can spend time with their newborns and still support their families. And because too many hardworking people are still forced to choose between a paycheck and caring for a sick child or an elderly relative at home, I have taken action to help States enact paid leave and paid sick leave laws of