[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 62 (Wednesday, April 18, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  COMMEMORATING THE 85TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE AMERICAN 
              HELLENIC EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION

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                               speech of

                         HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 16, 2007

  Mr. SPACE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 71, a 
measure commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the founding of the 
American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a 
leading voice for the nation's 1.3 million American citizens of Greek 
ancestry and Philhellenes.
  First founded in July of 1922, AHEPA focused on responding to the 
bigotry and racism that was targeted at Greeks in early 20th century 
American society. The organization also concentrated on helping Greek 
immigrants assimilate into society.
  Today, the mission of AHEPA has evolved to reflect better times. Now, 
members of AHEPA concentrate on working to promote Hellenism, 
education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, and family and 
individual excellence--all of which are pillars of both the 
organization and Greek society.
  The principles of Hellenism--humanity, freedom, and democracy--have 
been broadcast around the world. In fact, not surprisingly, they were 
the principles that America's Founding Fathers looked to for 
inspiration in forming a new government. In fact, American 
representative democracy, as we know it, is rooted in the philosophy 
and ethos of the Greeks.
  Greek-Americans, such as myself and 1.3 million others, are fortunate 
to have the outreach and leadership that AHEPA provides to our 
community. Thousands of students have had the opportunity to take 
advantage of AHEPA's scholarship programs. Over the years, countless 
volunteer hours have been donated to worthwhile projects such as the 
restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. With chapters 
across the nation, AHEPA communicates its members' positions to local 
and Federal legislators to ensure that Greek-American views play a role 
in not just the history, but also the future, of our Nation.
  As a member of the Hellenic Caucus and as a Greek-American, I am 
proud to support H. Con. Res. 71. AHEPA deserves this recognition on 
the occasion of its 85th Anniversary for all that the organization has 
done and all that it will continue to do.

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