[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 35 (Thursday, March 11, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E360]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING THE 189TH ANNIVERSARY OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE

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                               speech of

                         HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR.

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 9, 2010

  Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1107, 
which recognizes the 189th anniversary of the independence of Greece 
and celebrates Greek and American democracy. This resolution honors the 
Greek republic on its 189th anniversary, but the culture of the Greek 
people is over three thousand years old and has been the intellectual 
and philosophical foundation for many democracies throughout modern 
history.
  Modern Greece is a living, breathing example of the trials and 
struggles of many countries over the last hundred and eighty-nine 
years. Greece had to remove the shackles of empire to forge its own 
identity and destiny. The Greek people joined the allies in their fight 
against fascism during World War II. In the war's aftermath, Greece was 
in the physical and geopolitical center of the east and west struggle 
in the Cold War.
  The Greek people and culture have also had a lasting impact in the 
Detroit Metropolitan area. What started out as a small group of people 
on Monroe Street who wanted to preserve their rich culture, has grown 
into a successful group of business owners and, most of all, great 
Detroiters.
  Greece is an example of the steadfast determination that all people 
admire. The Greek People have seen their land invaded by foreign 
nations, experienced coups and rebuilt after tragedy. While this 
happened, America stood with them offering aid and assistance. It is 
only fitting we celebrate this occasion with them.

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