Greek-American Politicians Host Greek Independence Day Celebration

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, Senator Michael Gianaris, Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas, and Councilman Costa Constantinides hosted an annual Greek Independence Day Celebration at the Archdiocesan Hellenic Cultural Center in Astoria. Nearly 200 New Yorkers came together to celebrate Queens’ Greek heritage and Greek Independence Day and honor local leaders. Public Advocate Tish James was also in attendance.

The honorees were Parish Council President of St. Demetrios Emanuel Dritsas, Executive Director/CEO of HANAC John Kaiteris, local business owner and philanthropist Joanna Phillips and Dennis Syntilas (Posthumous award).

“Each year we come together to celebrate the contributions Greek-Americans have made in shaping Queens, and each year it seems like we have even more to celebrate,” said Senator Michael Gianaris. “I am proud of how much our community has done to make New York an even better place to live, and that work is personified in our honorees. I extend my thanks to everyone who joined us for this celebration of Greek heritage in Queens.”

“The Greek people, including Greek Americans living in the Borough of Queens, have made tremendous contributions to society in numerous fields, including the arts, philosophy, business and government. On behalf of the 2.3 million residents of ‘The World’s Borough,’ I am honored to co-sponsor this Greek Independence Day celebration with my distinguished friends and colleagues in government,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.

“I was proud to celebrate the 194th anniversary of Greek Independence with my colleagues and neighbors here in Astoria, the center of the Hellenic diaspora in America. These celebrations offer a chance to reflect upon the democratic ideals that bind Greece and America together as lands of liberty,” said Assemblymember Aravella Simotas. “As we mourn the passing of Dennis Syntilas, it is important to recognize him and other Greek-Americans who have contributed their efforts and talents to strengthen our community and our nation.”

Council Member Costa Constantinides said, “I was proud to join in honoring four great individuals at our Greek Independence Celebration. They have promoted Hellenic and Democratic values, and have been great examples of civic engagement and responsibility throughout our community. I commend our honorees and their families for their community service contributions. I thank our co-hosts Borough President Melinda Katz, Senator Michael Gianaris, and Assemblymember Aravella Simotas, as well as all who attended our celebration.”