Chicago Celebrates Greek Independence Day

Earlier in the week, a reception was hosted by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, in honor of Greek Independence Day. Longtime Corporation Counsel Mara Georges served as mistress-of-ceremonies. The presentation began with an invocation from His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos. Ambassador Anastasios Petrovas, Consul General of Greece in Chicago, also addressed the reception.

The mayor was in China, but sent his greetings. In his statement, the mayor said he wished to “honor the accomplishments that Greek-Americans have made to our city and to our country. The Greeks who came to work and live in Chicago made a big impact and continue to contribute today.” He added, “We are fortunate in Chicago that we can celebrate the past in new ways, like with the new National Hellenic Museum going up in Greektown. Here, we can continue to tell the story of the Greek experience in Chicago and in America, and give others the opportunity to learn about it. Greek-Americans helped make Chicago the global city it is today.”

Mayor Daley issued a proclamation, declaring March 25, 2011 to be Greek Independence Day in the City of Chicago.

Mr. Dimitris Georgakopoulos, President of ENOSIS, spoke in Greek and English, eloquently paying tribute to the heroic struggle for freedom in 1821.

Certificates of appreciation were presented to outstanding members to the community, including Yannis Economou, co-founder and co-director of the Orpheus Hellenic Folklore Society; Fotini Potakis, a fervent supporter of many Greek organizations; Mark V. Tiniakos, Associate Editor of the Greek Press and longtime member of ENOSIS; and Constantine Modestos Zografopoulos, founder of the Kostas Z Foundation and  tireless advocate of individuals with disabilities.

The event concluded a dance performance by members of the Orpheus Hellenic Folklore Society.