Proclamation 9310-National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, 2015
Issued 2015-08-31 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 to designate September 2015 as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The proclamation brings national attention to childhood cancer, which affects more than 10,000 young Americans each year and is the leading cause of disease-related death for children. It honors children affected by the disease, their families, and the communities that support them.
The proclamation highlights that mortality rates for some types of pediatric cancer have declined by more than 50 percent over the past 35 years, though the specific causes remain largely unknown. President Obama describes several actions his administration has taken, including signing the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act, which established a fund for pediatric research, and launching the Precision Medicine Initiative to advance cancer research. He also notes that the Affordable Care Act prevents insurance companies from denying coverage to children with pre-existing conditions like cancer and eliminates annual and lifetime dollar limits on coverage.
This is a ceremonial proclamation that does not create new law or impose legal obligations. It serves to express the President's recognition of childhood cancer as a national concern and to encourage citizens, government agencies, businesses, and organizations to join in awareness activities during the month of September.
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 9310-National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to childhood cancer. 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 9310—National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, 2015 August 31, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Pediatric cancer affects thousands of young Americans each year. It is the leading cause of disease-related death for children, and this year, more than 10,000 of our Nation's youth will be diagnosed with this tragic disease. Every September, America honors all those who have been affected by this life-threatening illness: young girls and boys whose childhoods have been cut short, the loved ones who know the pain pediatric cancer causes, and the communities across our country that rally to support their friends and neighbors during difficult times. As a Nation, we come together to stand with those who have experienced devastating loss, and we renew our commitment to advance research, improve treatment, and ensure a brighter, healthier future for all young Americans. Over the past 35 years, mortality rates for some types of pediatric cancer have declined by more than 50 percent, and thanks to major advancements in research and treatment efforts, our Nation has significantly improved its understanding and response to this disease. Today, innovative studies are leading to real b