Obama’s Proclamation Hardly Captivating

Jonathan Liedl / July 24, 2009

In 1959, President Eisenhower signed into law the Captive Nation Week resolution which mandated that the United States, as “the citadel of human freedom,” provide “leadership in bringing about [Captive Nations’] liberation and independence.” Last weekend, President Obama delivered his version of the Captive Nations Week proclamation.However, although Obama spoke to the value of “fundamental freedoms” and “universal principles,” his words lacked the passion and conviction needed to demonstrate America’s commitment to advancing freedom to all corners of the earth.

For instance, President Obama’s proclamation was completely devoid of any mention of democracy. This should come as no surprise. In the president’s first half-year in office, he has all but abandoned supporting democracy abroad, even in places where the foundations have already been laid. (more…)