Bilirakis, Pappas, Malliotakis, Titus, Smith, Pallone, Magaziner, Meng, and Amo Celebrate 204th Anniversary of Greek Independence
Washington, D.C. –Nearly two million Americans claim Greek ancestry. Representatives Bilirakis and Pappas who serve as Co-Chairs of the Hellenic Caucus are joined by their colleagues, including: Representatives Nicole Malliotakis, Chris Smith, Dina Titus, Frank Pallone, Seth Magaziner, Grace Meng and Gabe Amo in sponsoring a resolution to commemorate the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence. The resolution emphasizes the hard-fought struggle for independence of the Greek people, and the historic and dynamic relationship that defines the deep American-Hellenic ties.
"It is with great pride that I recognize the 204thAnniversary of Greek Independence and celebrate Greek and American democracy. Like the American revolutionaries who fought for independence and established this great republic we call the 'Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave', Greek freedom fighters began an arduous struggle to win independence for Greece and its people 204 years ago. The lessons the Greeks taught us continue to provide strength to victims of persecution throughout the world today. By honoring the Greek struggle for independence, we reaffirm the values and ideas that make our nation great. Each time I perform my Constitutional duties, I am doing so in the legacy of the ancient Greeks and our American forefathers. We celebrate Greek independence to reaffirm the common democratic heritage we share. As Americans, we must continue to pursue this spirit of freedom and liberty that characterizes both great nations," said Congressman Bilirakis.
“As we mark the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence, I join my fellow Greek-Americans and colleagues of the Hellenic Caucus in commemorating the beginning of the Greeks’ fight for freedom after nearly 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire,” said Congressman Pappas. “Greece’s courage and determination for independence mirrors the United States’ own fight for sovereignty and further unites our nations with a shared commitment to freedom and to democracy. Today we recognize the anniversary of Greek Independence and honor those lost in the pursuit of freedom.”
"I’m honored to join Rep. Bilirakis and my colleagues in Hellenic Caucus in celebrating the 204th anniversary of Greece’s Independence from the Ottoman Empire. As a vital NATO ally, Greece plays a critical role in bolstering security in the Mediterranean region and its strong military and economic ties with the United States are essential and continue to grow," said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.
“The United States remains steadfast in our bipartisan support for Greece. With this bill, we congratulate the Greek people on their Independence Day, demonstrate our countries’ shared values, and commit to our strong partnership now and in the future. I look forward to many more years of friendship between our countries,” said Representative Pallone.
“On this meaningful anniversary, we recognize the special bond between the United States and Greece and celebrate the boundless spirit of the vibrant Hellenic diaspora,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus. “In Congress, I will ensure the United States remains a steadfast ally and continues to bolster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.’”