[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 3, Volume 1]
[Revised as of January 1, 2003]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 3CFR7535]

Proc. 7535

Proclamation 7535 of March 25, 2002

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

[[Page 63]]

          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