; Whereas the countries of the Caribbean are important economic partners of the United States; Whereas the members of the Caribbean diaspora contribute to prosperity in the United States and the sustainable economic development of the Caribbean, and for 30 years the Institute of Caribbean Studies has encouraged the community’s civic engagement through research, advocacy, education, and action; Whereas the countries of the Caribbean represent the United States third border; Whereas the people of the Caribbean share the hopes and aspirations of the people of the United States for peace and prosperity throughout the Western Hemisphere and the rest of the world; and Whereas, since the passage of H. Con. Res. 71 in the 109th Congress by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, a proclamation has been issued annually by the President declaring June National Caribbean American Heritage Month: Now, therefore, be it