Aug. 25–31 declared John McCain Democracy Week


John McCain smiles while sitting in front of a crowd

“John McCain’s bold and steadfast defense of our democracy and freedoms at home and abroad is a shining example of what it means to be an Arizonan,” Gov. Katie Hobbs said of the late senator, shown at a 2016 event at ASU's Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication in downtown Phoenix. Photo by Charlie Leight/ASU News

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs has proclaimed Aug. 25–31, 2024, as John McCain Democracy Week, recognizing Sen. John McCain’s legacy on what would have been his 88th birthday on Aug. 29, 2024, and the sixth anniversary of his death on Aug. 25, 2018. 

The proclamation recognizes McCain’s enduring impact in the state of Arizona and his lifetime achievements fighting for freedom, democracy and human rights in the United States and around the globe.

“John McCain’s bold and steadfast defense of our democracy and freedoms at home and abroad is a shining example of what it means to be an Arizonan,” Hobbs said. “His legacy is woven into the fabric of our state’s identity and continues to inspire Arizonans every single day. I am proud to honor him with this proclamation and know that his impact is felt deeply by every community across the state.”

The McCain Institute — part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. — is a nonpartian organization inspired by McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. Its programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. The McCain Institute’s signature annual event held each spring, the Sedona Forum, provides a unique opportunity for U.S. and world leaders to have informal, face-to-face discussions about real solutions to the problems facing our world today. 

“As the organization dedicated to advancing the values and legacy of the McCain family, we are thrilled by Gov. Hobbs’ proclamation recognizing John McCain Democracy Week,” said McCain Institute Executive Director Evelyn Farkas. “We hope that John McCain Democracy Week inspires Arizonans and all Americans to serve a cause greater than themselves, just as Sen. McCain did, and to continue fighting for democracy at a time when it is more vulnerable than ever.”

By acknowledging and celebrating the legacy of McCain with this proclamation, Arizona aims to encourage the advancement of the values McCain stood for: freedom, democracy, country over party, and American leadership in the world.

“I am grateful to Gov. Hobbs for recognizing John and his legacy with this proclamation,” said Ambassador Cindy McCain, John's widow and chairman emeritus of the McCain Institute. “John dedicated his life to serving America and the values of democracy, freedom and human dignity. By recognizing John McCain Democracy Week, I am hopeful that Arizona and the world will be reminded of his service, civility and belief in American greatness.” 

Read the full text of the proclamation on the Office of the Governor's website. And learn more about McCain’s unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy at McCainInstitute.org

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