CORUSCANT, IMPERIAL CENTER | The Galactic Empire has entered its Twenty-Third Imperial Year, marking twenty-two completed years since the Imperial Ascension and the proclamation of the Empire.

Empire Day observances began across the capital and throughout the Oversectors at the opening of 23 AIA. Government buildings, military installations, embassies, schools, and civic institutions are expected to hold ceremonies of remembrance and public service throughout the day.

His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Draco Tanos, issued a formal Proclamation from the Imperial Palace addressing the citizens and peoples of the Empire. The Emperor described the anniversary not as a celebration of power, but as a commemoration of service and a renewal of the obligations carried by the Throne, the government, and the citizenry.

“We therefore begin this year not by praising power, but by recognizing service. The endurance of the Empire belongs to those who performed their duties when no celebration marked the labor, who obeyed the law when advantage invited its evasion, who protected strangers as readily as friends, and who understood that civilization is sustained by countless acts of discipline, courage, patience, and mercy.”

The address recognized the work of the Imperial Senate, the ministries, territorial governments, courts, Armed Forces, Imperial Guard, Imperial Order, Judicial Forces, and citizens across the galaxy. It also warned against complacency and corruption, repeating the Emperor’s longstanding position that public authority is a trust rather than a private possession.

“Let every official therefore remember that an office is not a possession. It is a trust. Every commission, command, judgment, and public credit carries a portion of the authority of the Empire and must be exercised honestly, lawfully, and for the purpose for which it was given.”

The Proclamation calls for the Twenty-Third Imperial Year to be marked by honest government, vigilant justice, renewed exploration, secure communities, and continued unity among the worlds of the Empire.

Read the full authenticated text of Imperial Proclamation No. 1 of 23 AIA.