[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 125, 112th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 8640 of March 24, 2011

Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy, 2011
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

One hundred ninety years ago, Greece regained its independence and
became a symbol of democracy for the world for the second time in
history. As America recognizes this milestone in the birthplace of
democracy, we also celebrate our warm friendship with Greece and the
lasting legacy of Hellenic culture in our own country.
America's Founders drew upon the core democratic principles developed in
ancient Greece as they imagined a new government. Since that time, our
Union has strived to uphold the belief that each person has a
fundamental right to liberty and participation in the democratic
process, and Greece has continued to promote those very principles. Over
the centuries these cherished ideals--democracy, equality, and freedom--
have inspired our citizens and the world.
The relationship between the United States and Greece extends beyond our
common values and is strengthened by the profound influence of Greek
culture on our national life. From the architecture of our historic
buildings to the lessons in philosophy and literature passed on in our

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classrooms, America has drawn on the deep intellectual traditions of the
Greeks in our own establishment and growth as a nation. Reinforcing the
steadfast bonds between our two countries, Americans of Greek descent
have maintained the best of their heritage and immeasurably enriched our
national character.
The American people stand with Greece to honor the legacy of democracy
wrought over 2,000 years ago and its restoration to the Hellenic
Republic nearly 200 years ago. As we celebrate the history and values of
Greece and the United States, we also look forward to our shared future
and recommit to continuing our work as friends and allies.
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, 2011, 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-fourth day
of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fifth.
BARACK OBAMA