[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 42 (Tuesday, March 27, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E456]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        IN HONOR OF THE 180TH ANNIVERSARY OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 27, 2001

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the nation of Greece 
on its triumphant 180th anniversary of winning independence. Throughout 
its glorious history, Greece has proven to be an inspiration to the 
United States.
  The birthplace and cradle of democracy, Greece's long history of 
promoting the ideals of justice and freedom now serves as a stand 
against which we measure all other nations. The legacy of antiquity is 
still felt throughout the streets of Athens today. It was the ancient 
Greeks who first realized that the right of self-governance was an 
essential foundation of any civilized society. Although such principles 
seem elementary today, their ideas were revolutionary in their own 
time. We cannot discount the influence that ancient Greece has had on 
our nation.
  In the founding of our nation, Greece served as a model by which the 
framers of the constitution structured our government. The political 
and philosophical influence of Greece can be felt throughout the 
institutions of our government. After helping to author our 
Constitution, Thomas Jefferson referred to Greece as ``the light which 
led ourselves out of Gothic darkness,'' That same light, still shining 
from the distant memories of ancient Greece, guides our nation today.
  Every year, the people of Greece come together to celebrate Greek 
Independence Day. Much like our own Fourth of July, Greek independence 
Day is a time for people to put aside difference and celebrate the 
vision which they share. It is a time to honor all people who join in 
the struggle for freedom. This year, it is important for all Americans 
to remember the history of independence and to remember where the roots 
of our nation originate.
  My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring the nation of 
Greece, on the 180th anniversary of their independence.




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