For Immediate Release
Office of Mrs. Bush
February 27, 2003
Remarks by Mrs. Bush at Dominican Republic Independence Day Reception
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Ruben, for your warm welcome. Thank you, Ambassadors Hertell
and Noriega, for being here today. Margarita and Fernando, welcome to
the White House and happy Independence Day! Fernando, congratulations
on your appointment to the Commission on Presidential Scholars. Thank
you all for your hard work to foster friendship and opportunity between
the Dominican Republic and America.
On this day in 1844, a proud people declared independence and put
the Dominican Republic on a path towards democracy. Today we celebrate
the anniversary of Dominican independence and the love of liberty that
unites all Dominicans and Americans. I'm glad you're celebrating this
special day at the White House, which stands as a symbol of freedom
worldwide.
One hundred and fifty-nine years ago, a new flag flying proudly
became a symbol of freedom for Dominicans. The father of Dominican
independence, Juan Pablo Duarte, designed the flag to represent the
Dominicans struggle for liberty and the promise of democracy. The cross
symbolizes the fight for independence. Red represents the sacrifice of
those who fought; blue stands for progress; and white, the Dominicans'
hope for lasting peace. Dominicans across the world believe in all
their flag symbolizes.
Today in America, the Dominican flag waves alongside the stars and
stripes on homes and storefronts. Our nation is inspired by Dominican
ideals and enriched by Dominican culture.We celebrate Dominican
independence and the Dominican spirit, a spirit of liberty and courage
-- a spirit that values family and faith, education and service -- the
same spirit that has helped shape America.
America is stronger for the one million Dominicans who live
here. And New York is one of the most culturally-rich cities in the
world, thanks in part to the more than 650 thousand Dominicans who make
it their home. From Corona to Washington Heights to West Harlem, the
Dominican spirit of freedom and enterprise enlivens New York City.
As Dominicans strengthen America, Americans have always supported
Dominican independence. And we admire the progress being made in the
Dominican Republic. Free and fair elections have helped to make the
country a model for emerging democracies. Our friendship inspires us to
work towards even greater democratic and economic development.
Together we are advancing trade and foreign private investment. And we
are making progress in preventing illegal immigration and drug
trafficking.
Our nations must continue to work together because our futures are
bound to one another. Geography makes us neighbors, but our shared
values make us friends. America's strong friendship with the Dominican
Republic is built on shared culture and common ideals.
We both cherish our families and communities -- the places where
traditions are passed from one generation to the next.
Sharing tradition with children is so important and so is the story
of Dominican independence. Every child deserves an education and the
chance to learn about their history and their ancestors. The history of
the Dominican Republic is one of freedom realized. It is a story to
inspire every child and every generation.
The fight for independence in 1844 continues to motivate us
today. It reminds us that brave and determined people, committed to a
noble cause, can do great good. That was true one hundred and
fifty-nine years ago, and it remains true today. The United States
stands with the people of the Dominican Republic not just on
Independence Day, but every day. May God bless La Republica Dominicana
and may God continue to bless America.
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