Proclamation 9464-Father's Day, 2016
Issued 2016-06-17 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
This proclamation formally recognizes Father's Day on June 19, 2016. It honors fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, and mentors who help raise children, acknowledging their role in providing discipline, guidance, and love. The proclamation specifically mentions fathers of all types—including single fathers, foster fathers, adoptive fathers, and fathers regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. It also calls on responsible men to step up as mentors for young people who grow up without father figures.
The proclamation directs government officials to display the American flag on all government buildings on Father's Day and encourages citizens to observe the day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities. It references the administration's support for policies like paid family leave that help working fathers support their families. The proclamation was issued under authority of a congressional resolution from 1972 that established the observance.
This is a ceremonial declaration that brings national attention to Father's Day. It does not create new laws, direct federal spending, or impose legal requirements on anyone. Presidents have issued similar ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they are a traditional part of the executive role.
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Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9464-Father's Day, 2016" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to day. 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 9464—Father's Day, 2016 June 17, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Blessed with the extraordinary privilege and remarkable responsibility of fatherhood, dads play vital roles in our lives—inspiring us to reach for our highest potential, lifting us up when we need it most, and helping us become the people we were meant to be. Doing right by our families is the most important job any of us will ever have. On Father's Day, we thank the wonderful fathers—and stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, and mentors—in our lives, and we recognize the sacrifices they make to be there for us, through good times and bad. Fathers provide the discipline, guidance, and love it takes to flourish. With persistence and patience, generosity and integrity, they build our cores and help us understand right from wrong. They are some of our earliest and strongest sources of support and encouragement, and they serve as role models and sounding boards in our youth and as we grow. From single fathers who struggle to make ends meet to surrogates who step up to be there for America's daughters and sons, these men help shoulder the greatest obligation that exists—raising th