Trump Proclaims March 25, 2026 as Greek Independence Day in the US. Credit: GR Archive Photo
US President Donald Trump has officially proclaimed March 25, 2026 as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy, reaffirming the historic ties between the United States and Greece and honoring the enduring legacy of democratic ideals shared by both nations.
In the proclamation, issued by the White House, Trump paid tribute to the Greek War of Independence, which began in 1821 and ultimately led to the establishment of a sovereign Greek state after centuries of Ottoman rule. The declaration highlights the revolution’s lasting global significance as a struggle rooted in the principles of liberty, self-determination, and national identity.
Greek Independence Day proclamation celebrates shared democratic heritage
The proclamation emphasizes the deep philosophical and historical connection between Greece and the United States. Ancient Greek ideals of democracy, civic participation, and the rule of law are described as foundational influences on the US system of governance.
Each year, the United States marks Greek Independence Day not only as a commemoration of Greece’s liberation but also as a recognition of the contributions of Greek-Americans to the United States. The annual White House celebration, a tradition dating back decades, typically brings together political leaders, members of the Greek diaspora, and representatives of the Greek Orthodox Church.
Honoring the Greek-American community
Trump’s proclamation also acknowledges the role of Greek-Americans in shaping the United States, highlighting their impact across fields such as business, public service, science, and the arts. Greek-Americans have long been recognized for preserving cultural traditions while contributing to the broader fabric of life in the US.
The document underscores how the values that inspired the Greek Revolution, including freedom and democracy, continue to resonate in modern America. These shared principles, the proclamation suggests, remain central to the enduring partnership between the two countries.
A historic anniversary
Greek Independence Day marks the start of the revolution against Ottoman rule on March 25, 1821—a date that also coincides with the Feast of the Annunciation in the Greek Orthodox Church. The dual significance of the day reflects both national and religious identity, making it one of the most important celebrations in Greece and among the global Greek diaspora.
In Greece, the anniversary is commemorated with military parades, religious services, and cultural events, while in the United States, celebrations include parades in major cities and the annual White House reception.
Reinforcing Greece – USA ties
The 2026 proclamation comes as Greece and the United States continue to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and defense cooperation. Greece’s strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean and its longstanding alliance with the US have made it a key partner in regional stability.
By formally recognizing Greek Independence Day, the White House reiterates its commitment to the close relationship between the two nations—one rooted not only in shared interests but in shared democratic values that date back millennia. As Greek communities around the world prepare to celebrate on March 25, the United States once again joins in recognizing the legacy of 1821—and the continued relevance of the ideals that emerged from it.
On Thursday, March 26, 2026 the White House will hold its annual Greek Independence Day celebration.
See below the full text of the official White House Greek Independence Day Declaration:
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY: A NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION OF GREEK AND AMERICAN DEMOCRACY, 2026
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – A PROCLAMATION
This Greek Independence Day, we commemorate the wisdom and resolve of the Greek people, who cast off the chains of despotism, renewed the promise of freedom first born on their ancient soil, and reasserted their rightful place as the cradle of Western civilization.
Long before our Nation took up the torch of liberty 250 years ago, the miracle of self-government first dawned in Greece, where citizens were granted a direct voice in the destiny of their country. This spirit sustained the Greek people through centuries of occupation and hardship at the hands of foreign rulers. With rugged bravery, pride in their past, and confidence in their future, they launched a revolution on March 25, 1821, embarking on a noble crusade that shattered the chains of authoritarian rule that had bound them for centuries. For almost a decade, their freedom was successfully forged in the fiery heat of conflict and sacrifice, sustained by their faith in the timeless truth that every nation is endowed with the right to self-determination.
Like Greece, the United States was born in the tradition of republican self-rule and is sustained by citizens who believe that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are our sacred birthright. The histories of our two nations testify that an oppressed people will endure any trial to establish a truly just government, defend their inheritance at all costs, and secure the blessings of liberty for themselves and their children.
Today, the Greek American community enriches the story of our Nation through their enterprise, faith in God, and unyielding passion for the principles that have defined the American way of life since 1776. Greece stands shoulder to shoulder with the United States in our values, our commitment to the defense of our Western ideals, and our devotion to the cause of peace throughout the world.
As America marks 250 glorious years of independence, we draw inspiration from the example of the Greek people who refused to surrender their sovereignty and preserved the flame of self-government. Together, our two nations are allies in freedom, united by history, tested by struggle, and confident in the promise of a radiant future. On this 205th Greek Independence Day, we celebrate that enduring spirit, which first stirred in Athens and inspired our Founding Fathers in Philadelphia, whose genius and devotion to the cause of human freedom will never cease to inspire people on both sides of the Atlantic.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2026, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
