Proclamation 9490-National Grandparents Day, 2016
Issued 2016-09-09 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 September 11, 2016, as National Grandparents Day. The proclamation is a formal statement honoring America's grandparents and calling upon all Americans to take time to recognize their own grandparents and those in their community. It does not create any new programs, laws, or requirements—it simply sets aside a day for national recognition.
The proclamation acknowledges grandparents' contributions to families and communities, noting that millions of grandparents serve as primary caregivers and provide guidance and encouragement to younger generations. It recognizes their historical sacrifices, including those who fought for freedom or immigrated to America seeking better opportunities for their families.
This type of ceremonial proclamation is a traditional presidential action that dates back to George Washington. It expresses the President's sentiment on behalf of the nation to draw public awareness to a particular group or cause. The proclamation requires no congressional approval and imposes no legal obligations on anyone—it is purely a declaratory statement encouraging Americans to honor grandparents on the designated day.
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 9490-National Grandparents Day, 2016" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to grandparents. 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 9490—National Grandparents Day, 2016 September 9, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Every day, families and communities across the globe benefit from the too often unheralded wisdom and devotion of dedicated grandparents—women and men who blazed trails, broke down barriers, and shaped the world we know today. On National Grandparents Day, we honor America's grandparents as the backbone of our communities, and acknowledge the progress they forged so that their children and grandchildren could live out their dreams. In our grandmothers and grandfathers, we see a reflection of what is possible with hard work, grit, and determination. Their fight for inclusivity and opportunity for all can be seen in board rooms and courthouses across our country, and their efforts helped build the world's largest, most durable economy and strongest middle class. This enduring legacy spans generations and will empower innovators and leaders for years to come. Some grandparents sacrificed everything, leaving behind all they knew and loved to fight for freedom far from home, or to start a new life and give their families a chance at a brighter tomorrow in America. Millions o