“Once again, you honor the Greek-American People of America in this most extraordinary way, with the Annual Greek Independence Day celebration here at the White House,” said Archbishop Elpidophoros in his address to the US President, Joe Biden, at the White House Celebration of 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 US President and Greek-Americans.
This significant occasion not only holds a profound symbolic value but also presents a vital opportunity for the Greek-American community to convey messages to the American political leadership.
In his address, Archbishop Elpidophoros thanked the American president for his support to the Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while making special reference to the need to resolve the Cyprus issue.
Afterwards, the Archbishop stressed: “You continue to be the leading advocate for the cause of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, who are still fighting two years later for their very lives against the unjust and inhuman invasion of their land. You continue to stand with Ukraine and for your unbreakable and unshakeable support, we are very grateful indeed.”
“We are on your side, Mr. President, just as you are on the side of democracy and liberty,” he concluded.
President Biden’s presence was met with applause from all present, including Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. Prior to this, amidst a warm ambiance, the American President held a private meeting with the Archbishop, Greece’s ambassador to the USA, Katerina Nasika, and other prominent members of the Greek-American community.
In his proclamation marking the 203rd anniversary of Greek Independence, President Joe Biden extensively highlighted Greek-American relations and the enduring ideals of the Greek Revolution, which served as inspiration for the founders of American democracy.
Speaking in a personal tone, President Biden reflected on the lasting friendships he has forged with numerous Greek expatriates, some of whom he sought out among the audience to greet warmly.
He recounted the early, challenging years of his political career, acknowledging the pivotal support of the Greek community in securing his initial election victory in Delaware. Addressing those present, he said that he wouldn’t be standing on this stage today without them and the made clear that he said that “without any hint of exaggeration.”
President Biden also touched upon his relationship with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, describing him as a great friend and remarkable individual. Furthermore, he emphasized that, when he had a minor issue in another country, they made it clear that if it would not be resolved swiftly, there could be repercussions involving the United States.
Please read the address of the Archbishop:
Mr. President,
Once again, you honor the Greek-American People of America in this most extraordinary way, with the Annual Greek Independence Day celebration here at the White House. As ever, we are humbled by the prestige of this celebration, and on behalf of all, I thank you for continuing this wonderful tradition that recognizes the Hellenic roots of Democracy.
In addition to these democratic ideals, which are sadly being diminished around the globe, we are here to acclaim and remember those whose commitment to the cause of liberty and democracy cost them the dearest price of all – their lives: The Immortal Heroes of 1821, who like those of 1776 and those of every generation who have been willing to lay “so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom.” We say “Eternal Memory” to all our brave warriors for peace and justice.
Mr. President, you have long been a close and trusted friend of the Greek-American family, and we consider you to be one of our very own, even from those very early days in Wilmington. But you are so much more than our beloved friend.
As President of our Great Country, you have led the world in championing freedom and the sovereignty of Nations. You continue to be the leading advocate for the cause of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, who are still fighting two years later for their very lives against the unjust and inhuman invasion of their land. You continue to stand with Ukraine and for your unbreakable and unshakeable support, we are very grateful indeed.
Also, as sons and daughters of the Mother Church of Constantinople, whose longest serving leader in history, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, counts you, Mr. President, as a beloved friend – we thank you for your unwavering support of the purely spiritual mission of our Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Mr. President, we thank you for your commitment to Greece and to Cyprus, and for a just and peaceful solution to this Island Nation, that has been scarred by a violent invasion and forced division for half a century, a solution that will abide by the international law and a rules-based international order. We are on your side, Mr. President, just as you are on the side of democracy and liberty.
May God bless you, Mr. President, together with the First Lady, your family, and our Nation’s armed forces, with health, long life, His abiding 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 present to all of you, the President of the United States of America, Joseph R. Biden!
Photos: GOARCH/Dimitrios Panagos
