[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 155 (Wednesday, December 1, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2023]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF ALBANIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 1, 2010

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Albanian 
Independence Day. As the Albanian community in Greater Cleveland 
gathers to celebrate, I join them in appreciation of their rich history 
and culture.
  Known as Day of the Flag among Albanians, November 28, 1912 marks the 
day that the Republic of Albania became a sovereign nation after 
approximately 500 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire. After this 
liberation, the country still faced 51 years of occupation under 
fascist Italy and the Soviet Union, emerging again in 1991. In part 
because they spent so many years under foreign rule, the Albanian 
people take deep pleasure in their independence.
  This pleasure manifests each year on the Day of the Flag, marked by 
concerts, banquets, and celebrations. In Tirana, the nation's capitol, 
the President, Prime Minister, and Mayor appear at a flag raising 
ceremony and visit the graves of soldiers who fell in battle. Despite 
the cold, enthusiastic citizens attend the ceremony, waving the 
national colors.
  Cleveland is home to a strong Albanian community, descendants of late 
nineteenth century immigrants and people seeking freedom and 
opportunity after World War II. This community has succeeded in 
preserving their heritage while wholeheartedly supporting American 
society, thereby contributing to the unique richness and diversity of 
our national culture.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration 
of the Albanian Day of the Flag. May every American of Albanian 
heritage hold memories of their past forever in their hearts, 
remembering the day that their forbears gained their freedom.

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