BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA 
A PROCLAMATION 
 
ARCHAEOLOGY MONTH 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Georgia's archaeological sites are an important part of our state's heritage, marking the arrival of American Indians more than 10,000 years ago and documenting the exploration, colonization, and founding of our nation by Europeans, Africans, and Asians; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
Georgia's archaeological sites are located in forests, cities, and on farms as well as beneath rivers, streams, and coastal waters; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
These sites, which hold clues about our state's rich and diverse history, are fragile and endangered by forces such as erosion, uncontrolled development, and vandalism. The study, interpretation, and preservation of our archaeological sites offer important educational, cultural, and economic benefits to all Georgians if undertaken in a setting of comprehensive planning and responsible stewardship; and 
 
WHEREAS: 
 
The members of the Society for Georgia Archaeology seek to increase our citizens' awareness of our state's archaeological history as a means to protect and preserve these irreplaceable links to our past. Georgia Archaeology Awareness Month offers Georgians an opportunity to explore with this year's theme of "Native Shores, European Waves: Contact Archaeology in Georgia"; now 
 
THEREFORE: I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim the month of May 201 5 as ARCHAEOLOGY MONTH in Georgia. 
 
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 22nd day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen. 
 
ATTEST 
 
GOVERNOR 
 
CHIEF OF STAFF