Proclamation 9921-National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, 2019
Issued 2019-09-05 by Donald J. Trump
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Trump issued this proclamation designating Friday, September 6, through Sunday, September 8, 2019, as National Days of Prayer and Remembrance. The proclamation honors the memory of nearly 3,000 people who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It asks Americans to mark these days with prayer, contemplation, memorial services, visiting memorials, ringing bells, and evening candlelight vigils, and invites people around the world to participate.
This proclamation affects all Americans by establishing a national observance encouraging reflection and remembrance. It specifically calls attention to those who lost loved ones on September 11, first responders who continue to risk their lives, and military service members who protect the homeland. The proclamation is a ceremonial statement rather than a directive that creates legal obligations.
This type of presidential proclamation falls within a long executive tradition dating back to George Washington. It expresses national sentiment and draws public awareness to a solemn occasion without creating new law, directing federal spending, or requiring any action from citizens. Such ceremonial proclamations require no congressional approval.
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Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9921-National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, 2019" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to days of prayer and remembrance. 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 Donald J. Trump, 2019 Proclamation 9921—National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, 2019 September 5, 2019 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation During these National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, we come together to honor the memory of the nearly 3,000 men, women, and children who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The passage of time will never diminish the magnitude of the loss or the courage, compassion, strength, and unity displayed during one of our darkest hours. The horrific events of that September morning shook our Nation to its core as we watched in disbelief as the chaos unfolded. Yet in the midst of loss and destruction, a renewed pride, patriotism, and appreciation for the precious blessings of life and liberty filled our soul. We pause, therefore, to remember not merely our pain and sorrow from that day but also our will, our fortitude, and our reinvigorated unity and love for our fellow Americans. Since the founding of our Republic, we have proclaimed reliance on Almighty God. Prayer has sustained and guided the leaders and citizens of this great Nation in times of peace and prosperity and in times of conflict and disaster. Thus, it is fitting that we again turn