Proclamation 9274-National Day of Prayer, 2015
Issued 2015-05-06 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 May 7, 2015, as a National Day of Prayer. This is a ceremonial observance that Congress has directed the President to announce each year on the first Thursday in May. The proclamation does not create any new laws or impose requirements on anyone—it simply invites Americans to observe the day in accordance with their own beliefs and consciences.
The proclamation emphasizes America's tradition of religious freedom, noting that people are free to practice their faith, change their faith, or practice no faith at all without fear of persecution or discrimination. It acknowledges that prayer is important to many Americans as a form of worship and reflection, and calls attention to the fact that millions of people worldwide face discrimination and violence simply for exercising their religious beliefs or choosing not to claim a faith.
This proclamation affects all Americans in that it sets aside a day for reflection, though participation is entirely voluntary. It matters as a symbolic expression of the nation's commitment to religious liberty both at home and abroad, and serves as a reminder of the freedoms Americans enjoy that many people in other parts of the world do not.
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 9274-National Day of Prayer, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to day of prayer. 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 9274—National Day of Prayer, 2015 May 6, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation When women and men of all backgrounds and beliefs are free to practice their faiths without fear or coercion, it bolsters our religious communities and helps to lift up diverse and vibrant societies throughout our world. In America, our Nation is stronger because we welcome and respect people of all faiths, and because we protect the fundamental right of all peoples to practice their faith how they choose, to change their faith, or to practice no faith at all, and to do so free from persecution and discrimination. Today, as we pause in solemn reflection, we celebrate the religious liberty we cherish here at home, and we recommit to standing up for religious freedom around the world. For many of us, prayer is an important expression of faith—an essential act of worship and a daily discipline that allows reflection, provides guidance, and offers solace. Through prayer we find the strength to do God's work: to feed the hungry, care for the poor, comfort the afflicted, and make peace where there is strife. In times of uncertainty or tragedy, Americans offer humble supplications for comfort for th