Bastille Day Flag Raising Ceremony Opening Remarks

Ceremony Agenda:

• 11:00 AM – WELCOME (Philippe Poirier)
  

• 11:05 AM - OPENING REMARKS: Marine Havel, Honorary Consul of France in Philadelphia and Wilmington
  

• 11:10 AM - SINGING OF UNITED STATES NATIONAL ANTHEM (Mo El Zein)
  

• 11:15 AM - SINGING OF FRENCH NATIONAL ANTHEM (Jessie Nguenang) & RAISING OF FLAG
  

• 11:20 AM - CITY PROCLAMATION PRESENTATION FROM CITY OFFICIAL (presented to the Alliance Française de Philadelphie)
  

• 11:30 AM - CULTURAL PRESENTATION: PhilaFLAM children (Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité)
  

• 11:35 AM - REMARKS: Guest of Honor Chantal Westby
  

• 11:40 AM - REMARKS (Philippe Poirier)
  

• 11:45 AM - PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES

Mesdames et Messieurs,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

First, I would like to thank Philippe Poirier, Director of the Alliance Française de Philadelphie, and City Representative Jazelle Jones for their outstanding organization of this ceremony.

Today, we come together not just to commemorate a historic event, but to celebrate the enduring values of liberty, equality, and, this year especially, of fraternity that has united our two great nations for centuries.

The bond between France and the United States is more than just an alliance; it is a testament to the unyielding spirit of our peoples. We have stood side by side in times of war and peace, our common values guiding us towards a future where freedom and democracy prevail.

"Impossible n'est pas français;" This powerful statement from Napoleon embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that defines both our nations. It is this very spirit that has driven us to overcome many challenges, to break barriers, and to achieve what once seemed impossible.

This past year, I have been reminded of this spirit in very personal ways. Facing many challenges, I found strength in both communities.

Living abroad, we French expatriates must recreate our families here, supporting one another and building communities that embody the strength and solidarity of our homeland. In times of hardship, we lean on each other, finding in our shared heritage the resilience to face any challenge in the city of brotherly love !

I'm thankful as well for so many people who were there to continue the mission of PhilaFLAM.

Today, as we honor our shared history, let us also look forward to the future: let us continue to strive for a world where the pursuit of happiness is within reach for all, where freedom is a universal right, and where resilience in the face of adversity is celebrated.

Our future must also rely on our collective efforts to combat climate change. By working together, we can create a sustainable world for future generations, ensuring that our planet remains vibrant and hospitable for all. We are proud today to honor a French-American citizen who is not only a wonderful artist, but also a terrific advocate: Chantal Westby.

As we celebrate Bastille Day here in Philadelphia, let us reaffirm our commitment to these timeless ideals. Let us honor the memory of those who came before us, including the remarkable Marquis de Lafayette, by continuing their legacy, by standing together in the face of challenges, and by believing that, indeed, "Impossible n'est pas français."

Vive la France! Vive les États-Unis! Long live the friendship between our nations!

Thank you.

One figure who will be celebrated a lot this year and especially on Sept 28th, save the date, a figure that stands as a symbol of our shared history is the Marquis de Lafayette. His dedication and bravery in the American Revolution left an indelible mark on both our nations. Lafayette's commitment to liberty and justice, his fight alongside George Washington, and his influence in both French and American revolutions serve as a testament to the enduring bond between our peoples.

Back in 1789, Bastille day marked the dawn of a new era, an era where the pursuit of happiness, freedom, and resilience became the cornerstone of a nation. The French Revolution ignited a flame that has continued to burn brightly, inspiring generations to fight for their rights and to believe in the power of the people.

As we gather here today, we honor not only the memory of those brave souls who fought for these ideals in France, but also those in America who have shared this pursuit. Our histories are deeply intertwined, our struggles and triumphs reflecting one another in a dance of shared aspirations and mutual respect.