Pelosi Statement on Greek Independence Day
Pelosi Statement on Greek Independence Day
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Contact:Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami, 202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. â€" Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the 188th anniversary of Greek Independence. Today, the House will vote on H. Res. 273, which recognizes this anniversary and celebrates Greek and American democracy.
"Greece and the United States share a special bond that reaches back to the founding of America. The Greek philosophical tradition inspired our America’s Founding Fathers in our struggle for freedom, which, in turn, inspired Greek patriots to fight for and achieve their independence in the 1820s.
"The United States opened its arms to multitudes of Greek immigrants who brought with them beautiful traditions that have contributed greatly to the beautiful mosaic that is America. In my own City of San Francisco, the Greek-American community is a vital and vibrant component of our world-renowned diversity.
"The Greeks taught the world that the power of a legitimate government can spring only from the people. Today, both in America and in Greece, we remain dedicated to this principle, and to the advancement of democracy and equality. As a strong supporter of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, I am proud to join with the more than 1 million Americans of Greek heritage to commemorate the 188th anniversary of Greek Independence Day."