A strong message of unity, historical memory and a lasting connection with Hellenism everywhere was sent by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, from Chicago.
Mrs. Mendoni was in the United States to represent the Greek government at the expatriate celebrations for March 25th National Anniversary, currently taking place in the city.
During her presence at the events, she highlighted the importance of maintaining ties with the Hellenism of the diaspora, underlining the role of the Diaspora as a bridge of culture and history.
“It is a special blessing to be with you today. We feel joy, pride and great emotion as we celebrate today our national anniversary together with the Hellenism of the diaspora. The expatriate community of Chicago honors Greece, its principles and values, proving that it strives not only for its personal progress and prosperity, but also for the development and prosperity of the homeland, sending today, from Chicago, a resounding message of national continuity, Greek identity and collective pride,” the Minister said and added: “We are all particularly honored by the presence of the Presidential Guard, which is not at all formal, but deeply symbolic, as its uniform and armament reflect the struggles of our ancestors for the freedom and independence of the homeland. They teach us to whom we owe our freedom and democracy.”
The celebrations were again held with great pomp this year. The events began with the Divine Liturgy and the Doxology, presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael, at the Holy Cathedral of the Annunciation of Theotokos, in the presence of numerous believers and expatriates. After the end of the holy service, the Minister had a warm meeting with His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael, with whom she discussed the role of Orthodoxy in the preservation of Greek identity and the contribution of diaspora Hellenism to the unity of the nation. The highlight of the celebrations was the grand parade in Chicago’s Greektown, with the participation of thousands of expatriates, school clubs and organizations. Particularly exciting was the presence of the Presidential Guard Euzones, who marched in Chicago after almost ten years. Their return added strong symbolism to the event, reinforcing the sense of national pride. The events once again highlighted the vibrant presence of Hellenism beyond the borders of the homeland.
The events were also attended by the Deputy Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports Konstantinos Vlasis, the Consul General and the Consul General of Greece in Chicago Emmanuel Koumbarakis and Georgia Tasiopoulou, Colonel Christos Georgantis, head of the Presidential Guard, the Lords of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the President of the Federation of Greek Associations of Illinois “Enosis” George Reveliotis with representatives of the Greek community and a large number of people.
