MARCH 24, 2023

A Proclamation on Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy, 2023

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.

     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.  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.

     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.  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.

     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.

                                JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Greece Independence Day PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE

MARCH 25, 2023

On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic.

As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Ally at a time of unparalleled global challenges.

Time and again, Greece has stood on the right side of history, demonstrated most recently by its ongoing vital support to Ukraine more than one year after Moscow launched its brutal and unprovoked full-scale invasion that has claimed countless innocent lives, including in the city of Mariupol, home to a Hellenistic identity for centuries. From Europe’s eastern flank to the Eastern Mediterranean, the Western Balkans, and beyond, Greece has served as a principled proponent of peace and prosperity, and I thank you for your continued leadership.

During my first official visit as Secretary of State to Greece this year, I was reminded not only of Greece’s legendary hospitality, but also of its unique role as the birthplace of democracy. Those remarkable values born in Athens resonated with the founders of the United States and continue to reverberate throughout the world, lighting the way forward to this day. This ancient source of inspiration allows us to stand united in addressing today’s global challenges.

As we look toward another year of challenges and opportunities, I am heartened that our partnership remains firm. We will overcome our challenges together. The American people are resolute in our fondness and support for Greece and the

Greek people. I look forward to the ways in which we will deepen our partnership and friendship and wish the people of Greece a year of peace, prosperity, and good health.