On Thursday, happenings in Washington, D.C. included the introduction of the “National Day of the American Cowboy” resolution.
This recognizes July 23, 2011 as day to set aside to honor and remember the contributions of the cowboy into the history of the American West, and to encourage Americans to live the values and the code of the cowboy.
The date just so happens to coincide with Cheyenne Frontier Days. While the bill was introduced by a number of cosponsors this year (listed below), it was originally introduced by the late Wyoming Senator Craig Thomas.
Bill Text:
Mr. ENZI (for himself, Mr. BARRASSO, Mr. BAUCUS, Mr. BINGAMAN, Mr. CRAPO, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota, Ms. MURKOWSKI, Mr. REID, Mr. RISCH, and Mr. ROBERTS) submitted the following resolution
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.
Posted by Haylie Shipp
