“Once again, you honor the Greek-American people of America in the most extraordinary way, with the annual celebration of Greek Independence Day here at the White House,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said in his address to the President American Joe Biden, at the White House. Celebrating Greek Independence on April 4, 2024 at the White House.
The Archbishop of America was at the White House, where the celebration of Greek independence of 1821 is traditionally celebrated, in the presence of the American president and Greek-Americans.
This important occasion not only carries deep symbolic value, but also serves as a vital opportunity for the Greek-American community to convey messages to U.S. political leaders.
In his speech, Archbishop Elpidophoros thanked the US President for his support of the Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while making particular reference to the need to resolve the Cyprus issue.
Subsequently, the Archbishop emphasized: “You continue to be the main defender of the cause of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, who are still fighting for their lives two years later against the unjust and inhumane invasion of their land. You continue to stand by Ukraine and for your unbreakable and unwavering support, we are truly grateful to you.
“We are on your side, Mr. President, just as you are on the side of democracy and freedom,” he concluded.
President Biden’s presence was met with applause from everyone present, including Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. Before that, in a warm atmosphere, the American president had a private meeting with the Archbishop, the Greek Ambassador to the United States, Katerina Nasika, and other prominent members of the Greek-American community.
In his proclamation marking the 203rd anniversary of Greek independence, President Joe Biden largely emphasized Greek-American relations and the enduring ideals of the Greek Revolution, which inspired the founders of American democracy.
Speaking in a personal tone, President Biden spoke of the lasting friendships he has made with many Greek expatriates, some of whom he asked in the audience to greet them warmly.
He recounted the difficult early years of his political career, acknowledging the critical support of the Greek community in securing his first electoral victory in Delaware. Addressing those present, he said he would not be on this stage today without them and clarified that he had said this “without a trace of exaggeration.”
President Biden also spoke about his relationship with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, describing him as a great friend and remarkable person. Additionally, he pointed out that when he had a minor problem in another country, they made it clear to him that if it was not resolved quickly, there could be repercussions involving the United States.
Please read the Archbishop’s speech:
Mister President,
Once again, you honor the Greek-American people of America in the most extraordinary way, with the annual celebration of Greek Independence Day here at the White House. As always, we are touched by the prestige of this celebration and, on behalf of all, I thank you for perpetuating this wonderful tradition which recognizes the Hellenic roots of democracy.
In addition to these democratic ideals, which are unfortunately disappearing all over the world, we are here to salute and commemorate those whose commitment to the cause of freedom and democracy has cost them the highest price. dear to all: their lives: the immortal heroes of 1821, who love those of 1776 and those of each generation who were ready to place “such a costly sacrifice on the altar of freedom”. We say “Eternal Memory” to all our courageous warriors for peace and justice.
Mr. President, you have long been a close and trusted friend to the Greek-American family, and we have considered you one of our own, even since those very early days in Wilmington. But you are much more than our beloved friend.
As president of our great country, you have led the world in defending the freedom and sovereignty of nations. You continue to be the main defender of the cause of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, who are still, two years later, fighting for their lives against the unjust and inhumane invasion of their land. You continue to stand by Ukraine and for your unwavering and unwavering support, we are truly grateful.
Furthermore, as sons and daughters of the Mother Church of Constantinople, whose longest-serving ruler in history, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, counts you, Mr. President, as a beloved friend – we thank you for your unwavering support for purely religious action. spiritual mission of our Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Mr. President, we thank you for your commitment to Greece and Cyprus, and to a just and peaceful solution to this island nation, marked by violent invasion and forced division for half a century, a solution that will respect the law international and a rules-based international order. We are on your side, Mr. President, just as you are on the side of democracy and freedom.
May God bless you, Mr. President, along with the First Lady, your family, and our nation’s armed forces, with health, long life, His everlasting grace, and His invincible strength.
Long live America ! Long live the Greek people!
Ζήτω ἠ Ἀμερική! Ζήτω τὸ Ἑλληνικὸ Ἔθνος!Now, it is my incredible honor and privilege to introduce to all of you, the President of the United States of America, Joseph R. Biden!
Photos: GOARCH/Dimitrios Panagos
