Senate Resolution Honors American Cowboy

U.S. Senators Mike Enzi and John Barrasso  joined 12 of their colleagues in introducing a resolution that will declare July 28 a day honoring the accomplishments and contributions of cowboys from around the nation. This is the eighth year the resolution has been introduced.

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 Mike Enzi said;

“By honoring one of Wyoming’s greatest symbols, we offer a fitting tribute to the individuals who built and continue our agricultural heritage,Cowboys are more than a tradition. They are a symbol of the West and American culture. Their way of life endures still in the Cowboy State.”

Senator John Barrasso adds;

“The National Day of the American Cowboy celebrates one of Wyoming’s greatest icons,They are the backbone of the American West and embody the values that Americans hold dear: honesty, integrity and hard work.  I look forward to joining Senator Enzi in honoring America’s cowboys and cowgirls across the state of Wyoming.”

Senators Max Baucus (D-Mont), Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.), Kent Conrad (D-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Harry Reid (D-Nev.), James Risch (R-Idaho) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) are also cosponsors of the resolution.

Here is a look at the Resolution.

RESOLUTION

Designating July 28, 2012, 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 28, 2012, 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.