Proclamation 2853—United Nations Day, 1949

Whereas throughout the march of civilization mankind has yearned for security, justice, and lasting peace; and

Whereas the Charter of the United Nations, which embodies these aspirations, has instilled in the peoples of the world a renewed faith that by cooperative international effort and perseverance they may succeed in effectuating these ideals among men; and

Whereas October 24, 1949, marks the completion of the fourth year in which the United Nations has been a living force for solving the major problems involved in transforming a shattered world into a better habitation for the human race; and

Whereas the General Assembly of the United Nations, by its unanimous resolution of October 31, 1947, established October 24, the anniversary of the coming into force of the Charter of the United Nations, as "United Nations Day", to be devoted each year to acquainting all peoples with the aims and achievements of the United Nations and to gaining their support for the work of this organization:

Now, Therefore, I, Harry S. Truman, President of the United States of America, do hereby urge the people of the United States to observe October 24, 1949, as United Nations Day with ceremonies designed to affirm our faith in the objectives of the United Nations, our appreciation of its accomplishments, and our resolve to give active support to its principles.

I also call upon the officials of the Federal Government, the Governors of States, the mayors of cities, and other public officials, as well as civic, educational, and religious organizations; upon the agencies of the press, radio, and other media of information; and upon individual citizens to cooperate fully in public programs dedicated to strengthening our participation in the work of the United Nations.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States of America to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington this 25th day of August in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and forty-nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and seventy-fourth.

HARRY S. TRUMAN

By the President:

DEAN ACHESON,

Secretary of State.