Ambassador Cornstein’s Message
July 4, 2020
What a difference a year makes. Can you believe, it was just a year ago we were all together at the convention center here in Budapest, having a great time with some good food, some drinks, and a wonderful concert by my friend Paul Anka? And here we are today, and we have a virtual message. What a difference a year makes. But thank God, we’re all here, we’re healthy and we’re alive. And that sure beats the alternative.
Today as you know, all Americans celebrate the founding of our great country 244 years ago. Traditionally, as you know, we have large and joyful gatherings on Independence Day –great barbecues, fireworks, music with friends and with family. But this Fourth of July, it is different. We mark this important day, but we also remember the people that we have lost due to this pandemic. We seek comfort in our strength, our values, and our faiths. And we look forward into the future.
Americans now are in a debate about how best to fulfill our founding promise for all. Our Declaration of Independence put it perfectly: “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” That’s for all people. It’s for everybody. It remains our unfinished task, to bring that promise to reality. If American history teaches us anything, it is that we will find our way through our challenges as we strive to build a more perfect union–for ourselves, and for our friends and allies around the world.
And so, on this Fourth of July, please join me in celebrating something I love about my country – our belief in the power of democratic values. Together we will make a better world for all of us.
May God bless all of you, and may God bless the United States of America.
Thank you.
View our videos celebrating Independence Day:
