On Friday, US President Joe Biden issued a proclamation marking Greek Independence Day on March 25 as “A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.”
The proclamation, announced by the White House, celebrated the historical ties between Greece and the US. In particular, the proclamation stressed the strong influences of ancient Athenian democracy on the formation of the newly independent American state in the 18th century.
The US has the largest population of Greeks outside of Greece itself, with a diaspora population of roughly three million. On Saturday, many Greek Americans will mark Greek Independence Day, particularly in cities like New York where a parade is held annually.
Biden issues proclamation marking Greek Independence Day
“Today, we honor the heroism of Greek revolutionaries who fought for their independence more than two centuries ago and celebrate the sacred idea that has always bound our great nations together: that “we the people” hold the power to shape our own destinies,” read the opening lines of the proclamation.
“The story of our shared values and common purpose reaches back to America’s founding, when ancient Athenian democracy helped inspire the Framers of our democracy to forge a new system of self-government,” the proclamation continues, referencing the long-lasting influences of the Athenian democratic system.
“Just a few decades later, in 1821, when the courageous women and men of Greece rose up to declare their own independence from the Ottoman Empire, young patriots from the newly formed United States crossed the Atlantic to support the Greek fight for freedom. During World War II, Greeks and Americans joined together against the forces of fascism, understanding in their cores that democracy is worth the sacrifice.”
Bilateral relations
President Joe Biden also took the opportunity to stress the importance of strong bilateral relations between the US and Greece in contemporary times.
“Today, the alliance between Greece and the United States has never been stronger. Together, we are deepening our cooperation on climate and energy, trade and investment, pandemic response, disaster relief, and so much more to shape a healthier, more prosperous, and more just world.”
The war in Ukraine, which has become a focal point of foreign policy for American and European officials was also mentioned at some length.
“In the face of Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine, Greece has once more demonstrated its moral courage and its values — condemning Russia’s aggression and welcoming Ukrainian refugees. Every generation has to defeat democracy’s mortal foes, and together, we will continue to show the world that the darkness that drives autocracy can never extinguish the flames of liberty.”
Naturally, President Biden was keen to emphasize the contributions and cultural output of people of Greek descent living in the US.
“As Greece and the United States meet the future together, the ties of family and the contributions of Greek Americans continue to strengthen our partnership at every turn. Greek Americans are leaders in every industry and every community, helping build an economy that works for everyone and working toward greater social justice for all. I have been blessed with lifelong friendships and political mentors in the Greek American community, and I have seen firsthand how Greek culture and values enrich our American fabric.”
“This Greek Independence Day, as we mark 202 years of friendship between the modern Hellenic Republic and the United States, let us recommit to defending democracy together – – standing up for the rights, equality, and dignity of all people.”
“NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2023, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
“IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh.”
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