[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 13 (Monday, April 1, 2002)]
[Pages 513-514]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7535--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 2002

 March 25, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Ancient Greece was the birthplace of the democratic principles and 
thought that fundamentally shaped the growth of democracy in world 
history. Societies aspiring toward more democratic forms of government 
have found inspiration in the Greek tradition of representative 
government and free political discourse. As modern Greece celebrates the 
anniversary of its independence, won 181 years ago, Greeks can be proud 
that its vibrant democracy continues and that it is based upon the 
beliefs in freedom and self-rule first forged in classical Greece over 
2500 years ago.
    These ideals have been embraced by peoples of the world who aspire 
towards democracy, including the Founders of the United States; and they 
were tested by the attacks of September 11, 2001. The terrorists sought 
to destroy a political and economic system that promotes individual 
freedoms and tolerance, defends national liberty, and supports the full 
participation of its citizens in the democratic process. The terrorists 
failed; but rather than destroying us, their attacks strengthen our 
resolve to stand up to this evil. Along with the members of our 
worldwide coalition, including Greece, we are committed to defeating 
terrorism and protecting liberty.
    The friendship between the United States and Greece continues to 
thrive and is based upon our common cultural bonds and our shared 
national values. Today, more than 3 million Americans proudly claim 
Greek heritage, representing a continuing link between our countries. 
From the arts and education to industry and science, Greek Americans 
have made significant contributions to the cultural, civic, and economic 
vitality of our land.
    As we celebrate Greek independence, we remember the history of those 
who sacrificed their lives to preserve freedom and democracy. We value 
our friendship and continuing partnership with the government and people 
of Greece, and we commit to work together to provide greater opportunity 
and more freedoms for the citizens of the world. And we join the world 
in anticipating the momentous 2004 Summer Olympic Games, which will be 
held in Athens, the birthplace of Olympic competition.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2002, as ``Greek 
Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American 
Democracy.'' I encourage all Americans to take special note of Greece's 
rich history of democracy, the strong bonds of friendship and culture 
between our countries, and the important role that Greek Americans play 
in our Nation.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth 
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 27, 
2002]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
28.

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