WASHINGTON (TNND) — President Donald Trump celebrated Greek Independence Day during an event at the White House on March 24, 2025. Addressing a group of proud Greek Americans, Trump expressed his delight at their presence, stating, "Well, I'm delighted to welcome to the White House the hundreds of proud, hardworking Greek American patriots. I know so many of you. I like most of you, some I don't like. They get to be very tough, pretty tough people out there, but that's OK. We love you. We love you all."
During the gathering, Trump signed a proclamation officially recognizing March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day, marking 204 years since the beginning of the War of Greek Independence in 1821. This day, celebrated annually in Greece, represents a significant moment in Greek history when patriots rose against foreign rule to reclaim their sovereignty.
In his remarks, Trump emphasized the importance of this celebration, noting, "On March 25, 1821, Greek patriots began their noble fight to reclaim their destiny from the grip of a foreign empire, a very powerful foreign empire." He also acknowledged the contributions of the Greek-American community, highlighting that it has grown to encompass more than 3 million people in the United States. "Perhaps the greatest gift we have inherited from that amazing culture is our incredible Greek American community that is now more than 3 million strong," he added.
Kimberly Guilfoyle, Trump's appointed ambassador to Greece, was also present at the ceremony. In her address, she stated that serving in this capacity would be "the honor and privilege of a lifetime […] to serve a country that I love so much, that is so close to my heart." Guilfoyle expressed her commitment to fostering strong ties between Greece and the United States, signaling a focus on religious freedom and diplomatic relations.
The celebration fulfilled a long-standing tradition that began in 1987, where Greek Independence Day has been officially recognized at the White House. Archbishop Elpidophoros of America graced the event, presenting Trump with a Holy Cross and fervently thanking him for his commitment to supporting the Greek and Christian communities.
"Today, Mr. President, you bestow extraordinary honor upon the Greek-American People with the Annual Greek Independence Day celebration here at the White House. We thank you for your unwavering support of the spiritual mission of our Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul," he remarked.
Trump visited a cabinet meeting earlier that day to discuss ongoing efforts in his second term, underscoring the blend of governance and celebration. He also spoke alongside Louisiana's Republican governor, hinting at forthcoming economic announcements, which may have tied back to discussions of U.S.-Greek relations.
Throughout the event, the bond between the United States and Greece was a focal point. Trump's proclamation encapsulated this sentiment, officially calling March 25 an opportunity for the people of the United States "to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities." He elaborated on the historical ties by stating, "Our Founding Fathers drew inspiration from Greek philosophers and statesmen to form the tenets of our new Republic, now enshrined in our Constitution."
Continuing the historical reflection, Trump asserted the cultural impact of Greek heritage on American society, from the influence in language and literature to the visual arts and military traditions. The event served as a reminder of how deeply intertwined the two nations remain, with Greece not only seen as an ally but as a longstanding friend of the United States.
In closing remarks at the White House, Trump reinforced the enduring connection by stating, "We're doing well, and the Greeks are doing well. They’ll always do well," thanking the Greek-Americans for their notable contributions to the U.S. and emphasizing commitment towards honoring the virtues and values that those of Greek descent have instilled in American culture.
The gathering ended with applause and a spirit of camaraderie, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and its role in fostering greater understanding between communities. As American society reflects on its diverse roots, celebrations such as Greek Independence Day pave a way for unity in the recognition and appreciation of shared freedoms.
