President Joe Biden Proclaims Saturday, October 9, 2021, as Leif Erikson Day

October 9, 2021 – Proclamation by President Joe Biden on Leif Erikson Day 2021.

The journey of Leif Erikson and his brave crew – brave explorers from Scandinavia believed to be the first Europeans to reach the coasts of North America – was a source of Inspiration for Nordic Americans for generations. Although they landed on land more than a millennium ago, their historic journey still embodies the spirit of discovery and the continual contribution of Nordic Americans to the diversity of our great nation.

Eight centuries after Leif Erikson’s expedition, six Norwegian families arrived in New York City on October 9, 1825 in search of freedom and opportunity. This first group of organized Norwegian immigrants to the United States embarked on a new path that Norwegian compatriots – as well as Danes, Finns, Icelanders and Swedes – soon followed, establishing communities in the Great Lakes States, in the northern Great Plains, in enclaves between Cities in the northern United States and elsewhere in our country. These Northern European settlers have become part of America’s rich carpet and have strengthened America’s culture, society, and economy through service, sacrifice, and myriad contributions.

Today, more than 11 million Americans proudly lead their ancestors back to the Nordic countries. Nordic Americans are leaders in our communities – officials serving their constituents, law enforcement officers and military personnel defending our nation, doctors and nurses, educators, artists, key workers who lead us through the pandemic, visionaries starting new businesses, and so many other important roles. Our nation is stronger and more dynamic because of the contributions of Nordic Americans. On Leif Erikson Day, we express our appreciation for the many contributions that Nordic Americans have made in improving American society and enhancing our cultural diversity.

While the great era of Scandinavian immigration took place more than a century ago, the legacy of Nordic immigrants endures along with the values ​​and interests we share with their original homelands – including increasing opportunities for all and recognizing the inherent dignity of each People. We share common commitments to democracy, freedom, human rights, the rule of law, security and prosperity, and the Nordic countries remain some of our most trusted military allies and economic partners in helping us meet the common challenges of our time. The United States greatly values ​​our continued friendship.

In order to honor Leif Erikson, son of Iceland and grandson of Norway, and to celebrate our North American heritage, Congress passed a joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) to become “Leif-Erikson Day ”.

THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the powers conferred on me by the Constitution and law of the United States, hereby declare October 9th, 2021 as Leif Erikson Day. I call on all Americans to celebrate the contributions of Nordic Americans to our nation with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I laid my hand on that eighth day of October, the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one and the independence of the United States of America on the two hundred and forty-sixth.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
Source: White House Office