AHEPA: Happy Greek Independence Day!

 

Happy Greek Independence Day! March 25, 2026 Dear AHEPA Family, Fellow Hellenes and Philhellenes, In 1821, the Greeks bound together after nearly 400 years of Ottoman oppression under a flag bearing the cross to fight for freedom and justice in the land which gifted the world democracy. Like the revolution in America 45 years prior, Greece embarked on a journey forever linking our two countries through their struggle for freedom and independence.  The founding fathers of the United States of America drew upon the ideals and principles forged in Ancient Greece in constructing our nation. Thomas Jefferson called Ancient Greece "the light which led ourselves out of Gothic darkness," and all who cherish a free and democratic government are beneficiaries of Greece's legacy and should consider themselves Philhellenes.  This is why many Americans made the ultimate sacrifice alongside the Greeks during their struggle for freedom. Additionally, notable American political historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson, President James Monroe, Secretary of State John Quincy Adams and U.S. Representatives Daniel Webster and Henry Clay supported the Greeks during this time. Furthermore, American Philhellenes rallied support for the war effort by holding fundraising events across the United States. Throughout history, Greece and the United States have stood shoulder-to-shoulder to face the challenges of an ever-changing world. Greece has allied with the United States in every major conflict since the 20th century, and as the alliance continues into the 21st century, Greece has contributes significantly to NATO and United States missions, including peacekeeping operations in an ever-increasingly important region of the world. United States government officials have called Greece "a pillar of stability," in the Eastern Mediterranean region and even today, we see Greece continuing to stand up for democracy and freedom.  We sincerely thank our public officials at the federal, state and local levels of government, and the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues; who recognize the significance of Greek Independence, the close and enduring partnership between the United States and Greece and the contributions of the Greek American community to society. In celebration of the 205th anniversary of Greece's Independence, AHEPA family chapters, districts and the Greek diaspora, are working together to promote this important day in our Hellenic history. We will secure proclamations from state and local governments, organize flag-raising ceremonies at various State Capitols and City Halls and lay wreaths at memorial sites. Indeed, AHEPA family members worldwide proudly promote and sustain the celebration of this historic day for all Hellenes.  Thank you to every Hellene and Philhellene for your dedicated efforts to spread the Hellenic spirit worldwide! Ζήτω ή Ελλάδα! E. Chris Kaitson Supreme President Founded in 1922 in Atlanta, Georgia, on the principles that undergirded its fight for civil rights and against discrimination, bigotry, and hatred felt at the hands of the Ku Klux Klan, AHEPA is the largest and oldest grassroots association of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes with more than 400 chapters across the United States, Canada, and Europe.  AHEPA's mission is to promote the ancient Greek ideals of Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence through community service and volunteerism.  For more information, please visit www.ahepa.org. Celebrating 100 Years of Brotherhood

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