Washington, D.C. – For the seventh year in a row the U.S. Senate has declared a National Day of the American Cowboy. This year the day falls on July 23, 2011. U.S. Senators Mike Enzi and John Barrasso, both R-Wyo., introduced the resolution that the Senate passed unanimously to honor the accomplishments and contributions of cowboys across the nation.
U.S. Senator Craig Thomas, who served Wyoming in the United States Senate from 1995-2007, started the tradition of naming the fourth Saturday in July “National Day of the American Cowboy” in 2005. The day coincides each year with Cheyenne Frontier Days. Since Thomas’ passing, Enzi has continued the tradition in honor of his legacy.
“Senator Thomas was a true cowboy and it is a fitting tribute to continue honoring him and all of the nation’s cowboys in this way,” said Enzi.
“The American Cowboy is Wyoming’s icon, representing our traditions, values and way of life,” said Barrasso. “Senator Thomas was an unwavering advocate for the Cowboy way and upheld the cowboy’s commitment to honesty, integrity and hard work. I look forward to joining the rest of Wyoming in honoring all of our American cowboys and cowgirls.”
A copy of the resolution is below.
RESOLUTION
Designating July 23, 2011, as `National Day of the American Cowboy’.
Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as `cowboys’, helped establish the American West;
Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion, respect, a strong work ethic, and patriotism;
Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies strength of character, sound family values, and good common sense;
Whereas the cowboy archetype transcends ethnicity, gender, geographic boundaries, and political affiliations;
Whereas the cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures, who lives off the land and works to protect and enhance the environment;
Whereas cowboy traditions have been a part of the culture of the United States for generations;
Whereas the cowboy continues to be an important part of the economy through the work of many thousands of ranchers across the Nation who contribute to the economic well-being of every State;
Whereas millions of fans watch professional and working ranch rodeo events annually, and rodeo is one of the most-watched sports in the Nation;
Whereas membership and participation in rodeo and other organizations that promote and encompass the livelihood of cowboys span every generation and transcend race and gender;
Whereas the cowboy is a central figure in literature, film, and music and occupies a central place in the public imagination;
Whereas the cowboy is an icon in the United States; and
Whereas the ongoing contributions made by cowboys and cowgirls to their communities should be recognized and encouraged: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate–
(1) designates July 23, 2011, as `National Day of the American Cowboy’; and
(2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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