On the occasion of Belarus' official Independence Day, the people of the United States of America send their warmest wishes to the people of Belarus.
Your courage, resilience, and perseverance in pursuing a democratic, sovereign, and stable future for Belarus have inspired the world. From behind prison walls, in the cities in which you find yourselves in exile, and within your homes in Belarus, you continue to stand up and speak out for a truly independent and democratic future for your country, where you can live free of repression and where you will be able to determine the course of your own future.
The United States commends and supports your tireless efforts to champion Belarus' unique language, culture, and identity. We admire your perseverance in defending human rights and fundamental freedoms. We call for the unconditional release of all of the more than 1,500 Belarusian political prisoners, and for an end to the ongoing repression in Belarus.
The United States has stood for a democratic, independent, and sovereign Belarus for more than 30 years. That commitment remains unwavering.
