[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 50 (Wednesday, March 25, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E418]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN HONOR OF THE 194TH ANNIVERSARY OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 25, 2015

  Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair and co-
founder of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, I rise today to 
celebrate the 194th anniversary of Greece's declaration of independence 
from the Ottoman Empire. Inspired by an intense belief in the right to 
self-governance, the ancient Greeks pioneered the notion of democracy. 
The founding of our own great nation was built upon a similar desire 
for self-governance. Our shared dedication to democracy unites our 
countries and has preserved the strength of our close relationship.
  After generations of oppression, Greece's freedom was hard-fought, 
and the Republic of Greece has become a shining example of democracy to 
the world. Today, Greeks and their friends around the world celebrate 
March 25th as the day when the Greeks began the long, hard war for 
independence. It is a day of joy and pride for a great people and I'm 
very proud to acknowledge the remarkable contributions that the 
Hellenic people have made throughout the world.
  As many of my colleagues know, New York City is home to the largest 
Hellenic population outside of Greece and Cyprus and I have the honor 
of representing a large community of Greeks in Astoria, Queens. In 
Manhattan, we celebrate Greek Independence Day with a parade on 5th 
Avenue, which I have been honored to participate in over the years.
  Greece and the Greek people are such critical allies and dear friends 
of the United States and today I'm very proud to stand with my Greek 
brothers and sisters to celebrate the anniversary of their 
independence. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Greek 
Independence Day.

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