Proc. 7523 Title 3--The President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two individuals whom Dr. Woodson felt had dramatically affected the lives of African Americans. And in 1976, the Association succeeded in expanding the observance, which then became Black History Month. The theme of National African American History Month for 2002 is "The Color Line Revisited: Is Racism Dead?" The observance calls our Nation's attention to the continued need to battle racism and to build a society that fully lives up to its democratic ideals. This commitment includes ensuring a high-quality education for all Americans, so that no child is left behind, and challenges us to continue to rebuild and restore our communities, to fight crime and violence, and to pursue equal opportunity and equal justice in every part of our society. At the same time, the United States must look beyond its borders and take an active role in helping to alleviate poverty, stimulate economic growth and trade, enhance democracy, and combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. This annual event gives all Americans a chance to recognize and com- memorate the global history of people of African descent. As we celebrate National African American History Month, I join with all Americans in celebrating our diverse heritage and culture and continuing our efforts to create a world that is more just, peaceful, and prosperous for all. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 2002 as National African American History Month. I call upon public officials, educators, li- brarians, and all of the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities that highlight and honor the myr- iad contributions of African Americans. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of Feb- ruary, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7523 of February 4, 2002 National Consumer Protection Week, 2002 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Each year, we recognize the important role played by public and private organizations in ensuring that the American consumer is protected from unfair practices. The theme of this year's National Consumer Protection Week is "Consumer Confidential: The Privacy Story." By focusing on con- sumer privacy and the protection of personal information, this week will help Americans learn more about securing their personal information and preserving privacy. Advances in computer technology have enabled the more efficient use of information, which has benefitted society as a whole and individual con- sumers in particular. Americans now enjoy better access to credit and fi- 8
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