The President’s Speech on Freedom Day

[성김 대사]

President Obama recently gave a very important speech in Warsaw in support of democracy and freedom.  For the younger generation, you may not know Poland’s history and how the Polish people, organized in the Solidarity Movement, stood up to a harsh Communist regime.  An election in Poland 25 years ago led to freedom, not just in Poland but throughout Europe.  Just like what happened here in the Republic of Korea in the 1980s, it is an example of how citizens raising their voices can transform a nation. 

I thought it was a great speech and wanted to share some highlights with you:   

• “Poland’s progress shows the enduring strength of the ideals that we cherish as a free people.  Here we see the strength of democracy: Citizens raising their voices, free from fear.  Here we see political parties competing in open and honest elections.  Here we see an independent judiciary working to uphold the rule of law.  Here in Poland we see a vibrant press and a growing civil society that holds leaders accountable -- because governments exist to lift up their people, not to hold them down. “

• “True democracy, real prosperity, lasting security -- these are neither simply given, nor imposed from the outside.  They must be earned and built from within.”

• “We stand together because we believe that upholding peace and security is the responsibility of every nation… Bigger nations must not be allowed to bully the small, or impose their will at the barrel of a gun or with masked men taking over buildings.  And the stroke of a pen can never legitimize the theft of a neighbor’s land.  So we will not accept Russia’s occupation of Crimea or its violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty.”

• “Our democracies must be defined not by what or who we’re against, but by a politics of inclusion and tolerance that welcomes all our citizens.  Our economies must deliver a broader prosperity that creates more opportunity -- across Europe and across the world -- especially for young people.  Leaders must uphold the public trust and stand against corruption, not steal from the pockets of their own people.  Our societies must embrace a greater justice that recognizes the inherent dignity of every human being.”