World Freedom Day, 2011

Proclamation 8752 of November 8, 2011

World Freedom Day, 2011

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

On November 9, 1989, the German people broke through a
barrier that divided their nation, demonstrating no
wall is strong enough to hold back the rising tide of
human liberty. There could be no clearer rebuke of
tyranny, nor a stronger affirmation of freedom. On
World Freedom Day, we commemorate the fall of the
Berlin Wall, celebrate the resilience of the human
spirit, and stand with all those who live in the
darkness of oppression and believe in the hope of a
brighter day.

This pivotal moment in the global march toward liberty
heralded a new era in Europe and around the world.
Today, we once again find ourselves at a crossroads of
history as a wave of democratic movements sweeps away
oppressive dictatorships in the Middle East and North
Africa.

Just as the United States supported the aspirations of
those who emerged from behind the Iron Curtain, we
continue to stand with all who seek their universal
rights and reach for a future that offers dignity,
justice, equality, personal freedom, and greater
economic opportunity. Recent developments in the Middle
East and North Africa remind us that the pursuit of
liberty endures. As people around the world embrace the
cause of human freedom, they take steps toward a more
stable and prosperous future.

Today, we pay tribute to the brave individuals who,
despite all risks, tear down barriers that obstruct
democracy and justice for all. Let us keep in our
thoughts those who still live under totalitarian
regimes, and let us honor their courage to hold fast to
the promise of a better future. On World Freedom Day,
we renew our commitment to all who believe--even in the
face of cynicism, doubt, and oppression--that walls
truly can come down.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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 November 9, 2011, as
World Freedom Day. I call upon the people of the United
States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies
and activities, reaffirming our dedication to freedom
and democracy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eighth day of November, in the year of our Lord two
thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.