The President of the Republic, H.E. Dr. George Manneh Weah, has admonished Liberians to take pride in their country’s flag, the national ensign, as a symbol of patriotism and freedom.
Liberia celebrates Flag Day Thursday, August 24, 2023, the day the flag was first hoisted on August 24, 1847, twenty-two days after the declaration of independence on July 26 of the same year.
In a special statement commemorating the day, President Weah said Liberians must take pride in the star and stripes of their national symbol, the flag, and demonstrate patriotism to the nation.
According to the President, the flag reflects the country’s rich history and the valor of the Founding Fathers, a symbol of freedom and the sweat and toil of those who preceded the current generation of Liberians.
This year’s Flag Day is being celebrated under the theme, “The Lone Star: A Symbol of Unity and Nationalism”.
Dr. Weah asserted, “We remain grateful to God for his abiding grace and mercy upon our nation and people and for bringing us this far, in spite of our many struggles. Liberia continues to make steady progress towards strengthening the foundations of peace and democracy and respecting fundamental rights as envisioned by our forefathers and foremothers.”
He said the day is also meant to remember the heroism of the seven women, led by Susannah Lewis, who masterfully put together one of the most beautiful emblems in the world, ensuring that every fabric and color has a special meaning.
President Weah indicated that Liberians will continue to honor the designers’ contribution to Liberia as well as the contributions of all great women leaders, including our former president, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, whose personal sacrifices, he said, have helped the development of the nation.
“We must continue to celebrate all that we have achieved, and remember that, regardless of our differences, we are Liberians first, sharing a common heritage and history,” he noted.
The Liberian Leader also urged Liberians to maintain the peace being enjoyed today as well as the development that is taking place across the country.
“We must be proud of ourselves for the progress we have made, despite the turbulent years; we are a stronger nation now, ready to claim the future,” he continued, reminding Liberians that the pending October 10 elections will be a crucial exercise that will test national institutions.
He once again assured Liberians that his administration will ensure that the electoral process is peaceful and credible as much as possible, but will equally require each Liberian to play their part to ensure that peace is maintained.
“As a government, we remain committed to upholding the tenets of democracy and the rule of law,” the President added.
“But the responsibility also lies with every Liberian. As you know, this year’s celebration of Flag Day aligns with the 20th anniversary of the end of the civil war.”
The President re-emphasized that the upcoming elections are a historic opportunity for Liberians to stand together and demonstrate to the world that they are peaceful and will remain a peaceful nation.
He said Liberia has made remarkable progress since the end of the devastating war that led to the destruction of so many lives and properties, reminding citizens that the eyes of the world will therefore be on them this October.
“Let us demonstrate that we have transitioned to a more democratic nation with robust institutions that have been developed. I am looking forward to that with keen anticipation,” the President said.
