Issued 2015-05-29 by Barack Obama
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation to designate June 2015 as "Great Outdoors Month." This is a ceremonial declaration that encourages Americans to explore and appreciate the country's public lands and waters. The proclamation highlights that one-third of the nation's land is publicly owned and set aside for all Americans to use and enjoy, including National Parks and federal lands and waters.
The proclamation draws attention to the "Every Kid in a Park" initiative launched earlier in 2015, which provides all fourth graders and their families with free admission to National Parks and other federal lands and waters for a full year. It also notes that the President has protected more than 260 million additional acres of public lands and waters through executive authority, including establishing or expanding 16 National Monuments. The proclamation calls for full and permanent funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has supported over 40,000 local projects.
This proclamation does not create new law or impose legal obligations on anyone. It is purely ceremonial—expressing the President's sentiment and drawing public awareness to America's outdoor spaces and conservation efforts. During Great Outdoors Month, the proclamation notes that communities and organizations across the country will host thousands of events celebrating the nation's natural areas, and it encourages Americans to participate in these activities.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9289-Great Outdoors Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to great outdoors. 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.
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9289—Great Outdoors Month, 2015 May 29, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation America's vast and varied landscapes have always been central to the character of our Nation and the story of our people. Their rugged beauty reflects our national history and heritage—as pioneers who forged new paths and explorers who dared to venture into the unknown—and continues to inspire new generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Our mountains and rivers are part of who we are, and they are the birthright of all our people. Today, one-third of all our Nation's land is publicly owned and set aside for the use and enjoyment of every American. These are the places that make our country great, and as heirs to this extraordinary legacy of conservation, we have an obligation to make sure our children and grandchildren can enjoy the everlasting bounty of the great outdoors. Our Nation's public lands and waters fuel our economy and support our industries. Home to living laboratories and wondrous playgrounds, they spark boundless curiosity and innovation, and in the desolate wilderness, adventurers rediscover the spirit of independence that unites all Americans. As President, I am committed to