[Media Statement for the Mayor of Cambridge, Maryland On the
Occasion of Liberia’s 179th Independence Day – July 26, 2026]
Today, the State of Maryland has formally proclaimed July 26, 2026 as
Independence Day of the Republic of Liberia. We in Cambridge join
that recognition with deep pride and gratitude.
The bonds between our city, our state, and Liberia are not distant
history. They are living connections rooted in shared courage, shared
values, and shared people.
One of those people was born right here in Cambridge. Stephen Allen
Benson left these shores, rose to become the second President of Liberia,
and never forgot where he came from. In a powerful act of
remembrance and honor, he created Maryland County within the young
republic—naming a piece of Liberia after the place that shaped him.
That decision still stands as a permanent bridge between our
communities.
Just weeks ago, on June 24, the City of Cambridge declared that date
Stephen Allen Benson Day. Today we continue that recognition by
standing with the people of Liberia on their Independence Day and by
celebrating the enduring friendship between Cambridge, the State of
Maryland, and the Republic of Liberia.
These ties remind us that freedom, self-determination, and democratic
aspiration have always traveled in both directions across the Atlantic.
We are proud of that shared story.
I want to thank everyone who has worked to keep this history alive and
to strengthen these relationships in our time—the community leaders,
historians, educators, faith leaders, and organizers who have refused to
let this chapter of our story fade. Your efforts make moments like today
possible.
On behalf of the people of Cambridge, we extend warm congratulations
to the people of Liberia on this 179th Independence Day. May the
friendship between our communities continue to grow in mutual respect,
opportunity, and pride.
