Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) today marked the 193rd anniversary of Greece’s independence from the Ottoman empire by delivering remarks at the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) and a speech on the House floor; portions of both are below:
“Democracy was born in Greece. Yet, for centuries the Greek people, the people whose ancestors inspired our own country’s founding, were denied this right. Today Greeks and their friends around the world celebrate March 25th as the day when the Greeks, a great people, began the long, hard war for independence from the Ottomans.
“I am privileged to represent a large population of Greeks in my New York City district, the city that is home to the largest Hellenic population outside of Greece and Cyprus. As we honor Greek Independence Day, I am also hopeful that we can come to a positive solution with regard to Turkey’s illegal occupation of Cyprus, something I recently discussed with John Koenig, U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, who is optimistic that real progress can be made.
“Greece and the Greek people are such critical allies and dear friends of the United States, and today I’m proud to stand with them to celebrate their independence.”
Congresswoman Maloney is the co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus and represents a large population of Hellenic-Americans, particularly in the Astoria and Long Island City, Queens portions of her district.
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