Nick Larigakis, president of the American Hellenic Institute (AHI), a public policy and advocacy center based in Washington, DC, issued the following statement to celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the Greek War of Independence:
Today we commemorate the 202nd anniversary of Greek independence and remember the heroes who fought and sacrificed to defeat Ottoman rule in a triumph for freedom.
Ancient Greece gave birth to the ideals and principles that form the foundation of Western democracies. As such, all Americans share the Hellenic spirit that is embedded in the DNA of our Constitution and at the heart of our most cherished freedoms. As Greek Americans, we are especially proud of the success of our great nation, knowing that these Hellenic principles have formed the basis of our country’s unprecedented prosperity.
The American Revolution was inspired by the same Enlightenment ideals that inspired the Greek War of Independence. The American people have demonstrated their adherence to these ideals through their ardent vocal and humanitarian support for the Greek cause. Today, we must also look to the future and ensure that the friendship and strategic partnership between the United States and Greece, two long-standing allies, remains strong and continues to thrive. The US-Greece Strategic Dialogue, held recently in February in Athens, with the participation of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, paves the way for this future.
The celebration of Greek independence is an important reminder for free citizens around the world: the Hellenic ideals that gave rise to democracy and the rule of law must be defended. Every day we see courageous Ukrainians continue to act against an unjust invasion by Russia. In Ukraine and other parts of the world, we are reminded that while freedom is a good thing, it is not guaranteed. This can never be taken for granted. Because as we see every day, multiple forces continue to challenge our freedoms. If these ideals are not upheld, we can expect a slow erosion of the very principles that underpin our society. Only anarchy would exist without the rule of law.
Despite the heroic sacrifices and battles waged by our ancestors, the struggle continues. We must not lose sight of the danger Turkey poses in the Eastern Mediterranean and to U.S. interests in the region. Turkey poses a constant threat to Greece, Cyprus and the region as a persistent violator of the rule of law, and the rules-based international order cannot be selectively enforced. The community must engage our policymakers, inform them of these facts and inspire them to act. We look forward to celebrating future Greek Independence Days in a world free of threats to democracy and the rule of law and in the midst of a stable and peaceful Eastern Mediterranean region.
