ALBANY – Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris and New York State Greek-American legislators presented a resolution (J.2116) commemorating the anniversary of Greek independence. March 25th marks the date on which Greece declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire. In addition to Senator Gianaris, Greek-American Senators Andrew Gounardes and James Skoufis played a leading role in promoting the Senate resolution.
Michael Gianaris, Deputy Leader of the Senate said, “As the son of Greek immigrants, I hold the Greek-American experience very close to my heart. This is a wonderful time to recognize the sacrifices of those who came before us and to celebrate the Greek values that have influenced much of the world.
Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “As a proud fourth-generation Greek-American, I am honored to celebrate Greek Independence Day by making March Greek History Month and highlighting the special role that Hellenism plays into the fabric of our state. On this 201st anniversary of Greek independence, it is important that we honor our heritage while looking to the future and demonstrating the important contributions the Greek community makes to our city. As Greek-Americans, we have an obligation to actively participate in civic life and embody the Greek word “philoxenia,” meaning love of strangers, so ingrained in Hellenic culture.”
Senator James Skoufis said: “I wish the entire Greek diaspora a wonderful Independence Day! As a first-generation Greek-American who benefited from and now works to uphold the ideals of democracy, I could not be more proud of Greece’s enduring legacy in government, medicine, philosophy, science and much more. When our courageous ancestors took charge of their destiny two centuries ago, they paved the way for the independent and persevering spirit that the diaspora continues to embody today, including the courage of my own father and my grandparents who came to the United States to start over. I am proud to join my colleagues in co-sponsoring today’s resolution.
TGreek-American lawmakers to hold virtual celebration of Greek heritage on Thursday March 24 at 6:30 p.m. The event will be broadcast live on Senator Gounardes’ channel. The Facebook page. The event will recognize Greek-Americans who have made substantial contributions to the New York community. The keynote speaker will be Endy Zemenideexecutive director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council.
Greek Independence Day is a national holiday in Greece, commemorating the start of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. This year’s occasion marked the 201st anniversary of Greek independence.
Senator Gianaris is the first Greek-American to hold elected office in New York and has played an active role in promoting stronger U.S.-Greece relations and, as a first-generation American, in improving the experience of new immigrant communities.
You can read the full resolution (J.2116) here.
To watch Senator Gianaris’ speech on the resolution Click here.
