Proclamation 9309-National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2015
Issued 2015-08-31 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 2015 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. The proclamation recognizes Americans with substance use disorders who are working toward recovery and acknowledges that these issues affect millions of people across the country—in cities, small towns, and tribal communities. The action calls on Americans to observe the month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
This proclamation affects all Americans by drawing attention to substance use disorders and encouraging the elimination of negative attitudes associated with addiction and treatment. It specifically mentions that people in recovery are family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors, and emphasizes the importance of families, friends, and health care providers in supporting those seeking treatment. The proclamation also references existing resources, including a treatment locator tool and helpline number for Americans seeking help.
This proclamation matters because it uses the President's platform to raise public awareness about substance use disorders and reduce stigma around addiction and recovery. While it does not create new laws or require any specific actions, it reinforces the administration's commitment to evidence-based treatment strategies and highlights existing federal efforts, including integration of substance use treatment into primary health care and expansion of support services in schools and the criminal justice system. As a ceremonial proclamation, it represents a traditional presidential function that requires no congressional approval.
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 9309-National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to alcohol and drug addiction recovery. 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 9309—National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2015 August 31, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Every day, resilient Americans with substance use disorders summon extraordinary courage and strength and commit to living healthy and productive lives through recovery. From big cities to small towns to Indian Country, substance use disorders affect the lives of millions of Americans. This month, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to all those who are seeking or in need of treatment, and we recognize the key role families, friends, and health care providers play in supporting those on the path to a better tomorrow. This year's theme is "Join the Voices for Recovery: Visible, Vocal, Valuable!" It encourages us all to do our part to eliminate negative public attitudes associated with substance use disorders and treatment. People in recovery are part of our communities—they are our family and friends, colleagues and neighbors—and by supporting them and raising awareness of the challenges they face, we can help eradicate prejudice and discrimination associated with substance use disorders, as well as with co-occurring mental disorders. Preventio