Proclamation 9560-National Mentoring Month, 2017
Issued 2016-12-28 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 to designate January 2017 as National Mentoring Month. The action is ceremonial in nature—it officially recognizes a month to honor parents, families, teachers, coaches, and mentors who support America's young people. The proclamation calls upon public officials, business and community leaders, educators, and Americans across the country to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
This proclamation affects Americans broadly by drawing national attention to the role of mentorship in helping young people succeed. It specifically encourages people to become mentors and directs them to visit Serve.gov/Mentor to learn how. The proclamation references the Administration's My Brother's Keeper initiative and White House mentee program as examples of efforts to expand mentorship opportunities, particularly in communities where children face obstacles to success.
This matters because it uses the President's platform to publicly recognize the importance of mentorship and encourage more Americans to participate as mentors. Presidential proclamations like this one are ceremonial declarations that have been issued since George Washington. They do not create new laws, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations—they express the President's sentiment on behalf of the nation and raise awareness about particular causes.
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 9560-National Mentoring Month, 2017" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to mentoring. 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 9560—National Mentoring Month, 2017 December 28, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation With every generation, our Nation has expanded the essential idea that no matter who you are or where you come from, America is a place where—with hard work and perseverance—you can make it if you try. Although obstacles and challenges along the way can be discouraging, the mentorship and support of others have always motivated our people to persevere—even in the toughest of times. At the start of each new year, we observe National Mentoring Month to honor the parents, families, teachers, coaches, and mentors who pour their time and their love into lifting up America's daughters and sons. Nobody succeeds on their own: each young person's strength and resilience is fostered by those who have taught them they can do anything they put their mind to. Whether helping mentees study for a test, learn a new skill, or lift their heads up after a setback, mentors provide them the chance they need to move forward and set their sights even higher. And in helping mentees achieve their goals, mentors can inspire them to reach back and provide the same support to someone else in need of