Proclamation 9528-United Nations Day, 2016
Issued 2016-10-21 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
This proclamation designates October 24, 2016, as United Nations Day. The action is ceremonial in nature—it brings national attention to the United Nations and encourages governors and officials across all U.S. states and territories to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. The proclamation honors the more than 100,000 uniformed personnel serving in UN peacekeeping missions for their service to international peace and prosperity.
This action affects Americans in a symbolic rather than practical way. It doesn't change any laws, impose requirements on citizens, or direct federal spending. Instead, it's a formal statement from the President encouraging public recognition of the United Nations on a specific date.
The proclamation matters as a ceremonial tradition that dates back to George Washington. It allows the President to express national sentiment and draw attention to international cooperation and the role of the United Nations. While it carries no legal obligations, it represents the President's use of the office's platform to highlight causes or observances deemed important to the nation.
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 9528-United Nations Day, 2016" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to united nations. 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 9528—United Nations Day, 2016 October 21, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Seventy-one years ago, after rolling back a tide of tyranny that threatened Europe and the world, members of the international community came together to sign the United Nations Charter—advancing a promise to replace the ravages of war with the possibilities of diplomacy. On United Nations Day, we reflect on the progress we have made in the time since, resolve to carry this progress forward, and reaffirm our commitment to international cooperation rooted in the rights and responsibilities of nations across the globe. Today, because of the international order the United Nations has helped anchor for more than seven decades, we live in a global community that, together, has overcome the greatest financial crisis of our time, lifted billions of people out of poverty, promoted the emergence of more democracies, and taken meaningful steps toward leaving our children with a world that is safer, cleaner, and more stable. Yet the same forces of integration that have helped forge closer ties and stronger partnerships among the world's nations also have exposed deep fault lines that we must address. I