THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY: A NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION OF
GREEK AND AMERICAN DEMOCRACY, 2012
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Two hundred and thirty-six years ago, a new American Nation
was founded on an old Greek principle -- democratic rule by a
free people. We trace this enduring idea to ancient Hellas,
where Greeks brought forth the world's first democracy and
kindled a philosophical tradition that would stand the test of
time. Over two millennia later, the Greek people rose up to
reclaim their heritage as citizens of a sovereign nation.
Today, on the 191st anniversary of Greece's independence,
we commemorate that struggle to restore democracy in its
birthplace, renew the bonds that bring our countries together,
and celebrate the Hellenic ideals that continue to shape the
American experience.
As America's Founders built a Government of the people, by
the people, and for the people, they drew inspiration from the
democratic pioneers who shaped a small group of ancient Greek
city states. In the years since, Greece and America have
strengthened that connection through shared history and deep
partnerships between our people. During the American Civil War,
Greek Americans served and fought to preserve our Union.
Through two World Wars and a long Cold War, America and Greece
stood as allies in the pursuit of peace. And for generations,
Greek Americans have profoundly enriched our national life.
They stand as leaders in every field and every part of our
society, and their cultural legacy still echoes in classrooms,
courtrooms, and communities across our Nation.
On Greek Independence Day, we commemorate the proud
traditions that tie our nations together and honor all those
who trace their lineage to the Hellenic Republic. Nearly
200 years after the Greek people won their war to return
democracy to their homeland and become a sovereign state, we
reaffirm the warm friendship and solidarity that will guide our
work together in the years ahead.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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, 2012, as Greek Independence Day:
A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.
I call upon all 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-third day of March, in the year of our Lord
two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
BARACK OBAMA
