Articles
Our Rebuke to Greece’s Plan to Bring 50,000 Workers From India
Written By: KTE Executive Board
You may have seen by now that Greece is one step away from formalizing an agreement with India’s government to supply 50,000 Indian workers each year to bolster specific sectors of the Greek economy. These people will be both unskilled and skilled workers, and will likely be the recipient of lower tax obligations, compared to those of Greek citizens. The idea that Greece is considering the strategic import of tens of thousands of foreign workers – instead of trying to attract the nearly five million Greeks living abroad – is puzzling, to say the least.
Greece Should Criminalize Graffiti Before it’s too Late
Written By: Christophoros
As a regular visitor and seasonal worker in Greece, I’m seeing more and more graffiti every time I go back. And at the risk of sounding too altruistic, it pains me greatly that some of our most treasured towns and locations are covered in the ugliest form of “art” ever conceived. Most of it is produced by delinquents and undesirables, and I know I’m not the first journalist to suggest cracking down on its pervasiveness.
The Decline of Greektowns: A Crisis of Identity and a Call to Action
Written By: KTE Executive Board
Across the globe, once-thriving Greektowns are fading. These historic neighborhoods — built by the hands of immigrants who brought their language, religion, and traditions from the mountains and islands of Greece — are now marked by silence and decline. In cities such as Chicago, Melbourne, Montreal, and New York, Greektowns were more than ethnic hubs; they were sanctuaries of Hellenic identity and centers of communal pride. But today, many of these once-vibrant areas are slowly dissolving into the urban landscape; their distinct character weakened by time, assimilation, and neglect.
The Greek Diaspora Can Help Solve Greece’s Alarming Population Decline
Written By: Christophoros
You’ve seen the grim headlines announcing Greece’s burgeoning demographic crisis: one of Europe’s lowest fertility rates combined with the nation’s youth fleeing the country for greater economic prospects elsewhere spells the need for serious reform, and fast. Greece’s population dipped below 10 million for the first time since 1984 this past January. It’s not an exaggeration to say the country’s long-term future hangs in the balance if these trends continue.
10 Surprising Facts About Greece That Don’t Seem Real
Written By: Christophoros
Think you know everything about the homeland? Chances are these 10 facts will take you by surprise. Here are some tidbits you can pull out at random when you’re out at the kafeneio with your parea. 1. The Acropolis was a Christian Church longer than it was a pagan temple It’s true. I’d always associated the Acropolis with pagan worship before I looked into its history. After the building’s construction finished around 423 BCE, the Parthenon was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and served as an Orthodox Christian Church from the 580s AD until the 13th century, remaining so until it was converted to a Catholic Church by Latin Crusaders.
They’re Exchanging Globalism: Why Eurovision Should Return to its Roots
Written By: Chris Benis and Niko Wilk
You’ve probably already heard of Eurovision: Europe’s grandest stage for international music exchange and celebration. The competition has a storied history, with humble beginnings dating back to the 1950s and later serving as a device for fostering Pan-European identity throughout the Cold War and in more recent years. It’s also never been more popular, drawing in 163 million television viewers in 2024 and another 81 million in unique YouTube views.
Open Letter to the Greek Diaspora: Don’t Put Off Learning the Language
Written By: Telemachos
To my fellow Hellenes residing in Western countries: How many times have you confidently spoken Greek to a native speaker at church or while visiting the fatherland, and needed to switch back to English because you just can’t keep up with the rest of the conversation? If you’re anything like me, a few more times than you’d care to admit. The Greek language, which has been spoken continuously – uninterrupted – for thousands of years by both Hellenes and βάρβαροι alike, has played an extremely significant role in shaping world languages, culture, philosophy, art, and more.
The Ancient Greeks Believed They Were One Nation: Here’s Why
Written By: Alexandros
Modern historians and anthropologists have fascinated themselves with the study of the Greeks. One of the earliest and most advanced civilizations of the time, the ancient Greek nation possessed a unique feature: it was divided into multiple city-states. And, just like in early American history, regional and local identities were often stronger than national ones. Since the ancient Greeks did not act as a unified political entity, discovering how they perceived themselves was and still is a politically salient question.
New Washington State Abuse Law Requires Priests to Break Seal of Confession
Written By: KTE Executive Board
On May 3, 2025, Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, a confirmed Catholic, signed into law a controversial measure requiring priests to report child abuse to authorities — even when such information is revealed during the sacrament of confession. Ferguson told reporters he felt it was important legislation to pass, stating that, as a Catholic, he is “very familiar” with the sacrament of confession. A 2023 version of the proposal included an exemption for abuse allegations “solely as a result of confession,” but the latest bill explicitly removes that protection, stating that clergy are not eligible for a “privileged communication” exemption.
Greece’s First Taco Bell Will Open in Athens this Summer
Written By: Christophoros
Yes, you read that right. Taco Bell — notorious in the United States for being low-quality fast food — announced that it will be coming to Greece this summer. The US-based chain currently has over 8,700 locations worldwide, operating in 32 countries as of this article’s writing. Now, before the peak tourist season concludes, Greece will be added to the ranks. Although outwardly this may seem like an inconsequential move, it shows how the tastes and values of Greeks in Greece are shifting.
Is a New Golden Age on the Horizon for Greek Football?
Written By: Nikolaos
Last month, Konstantinos Karetsas made international headlines when he became the youngest goalscorer in the history of the Greek national team. He also became the youngest scorer ever in a UEFA Nations League game, at 17 years and 124 days old. The Greece squad from that victory – a crucial one, enabling Greece’s promotion to Group A in the Nations League – also featured Konstantinos Koulierakis (21), Georgios Vagiannidis (23), Giannis Konstantelias (22), Christos Mouzakitis (18), Christos Zafeiris (22), Christos Tzolis (23), and Konstantinos Tzolakis (22).
The “Hollywoodization” of Greek Culture: Where’s the Disconnect?
Written By: Pyrsos
As someone who grew up in the Greek Diaspora, I can safely say that the “Greek experience” in Western countries is entirely different from the culture of our counterparts in the homeland. These cultural differences primarily stem from the Hollywoodization of Greek culture: plate-breaking, ouzo-drinking, and partying. Such activities comprise the primary aspects of what many non-Greeks, and even some in the Diaspora, view as ultimate Greek behavior. Films like “Zorba the Greek” and “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” have played an important role in spreading this perception.
Why Easter is the best-kept tradition in the Greek Diaspora
Written By: KTE Executive Board
This year’s Easter Sunday is unique in that Catholics, Protestants and Orthodox Christians will celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on the same day – April 20, 2025. It’s a convergence that only occurs about once every four years, due to the ecclesiastical differences between the Gregorian and Julian calendars, which differ in their calculation of Easter. Unlike Western Christian denominations, Orthodox Christians follow the older Julian calendar and observe additional guidelines, such as ensuring Easter always falls after Jewish Passover, to preserve the biblical sequence of events.
The Return of Diaspora Greeks has Happened Once — Here’s Why it Must Happen Again
Written By: Telemachos
The story of the Heracleidae — the fabled descendants of Heracles — is not just a tale of conquest and migration; It is a symbol of the eternal struggle that Greeks everywhere face in pursuit of a permanent return to our roots and the restoration of our civilization. For those who are unfamiliar with the Heracleidae, they were expelled from the Peloponnese after the death of Heracles at the hands of Eurystheus, then-king of Mycenae.
Is the New Minimum Wage Increase in Greece Actually Harmful?
Written By: Anastasios
On April 1, 2025, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the monthly minimum wage in Greece would be raised by 6% – up from 830 to 880 Euros per month – in response to the “cost of living crisis” that is impacting many Western economies. Mitsotakis has cited this as a step toward New Democracy’s target of a 950-euro minimum wage by 2027. The intent is to have an immediate positive impact on Greeks earning minimum wage, who will, of course, accrue more funds for living expenses.
Nea Demokratia: The Rise, Decline, and Future of Greece’s Ruling Party
Written By: Stephanos
Led by current Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Nea Demokratia has held a dominant position in the Hellenic Parliament since 2019, leaving a profound and lasting impact on modern Greek politics. The party traces its roots back to the aftermath of the Junta’s fall in 1974 when it became the first political party to lead Greece after the restoration of democracy. Nea Demokratia was established by former Prime Minister Konstantinos Karamanlis, with the founding goal of guiding Greek society out of the chaos left in the wake of the Junta’s reign.
Los Angeles Chargers Awarded International Marketing Rights in Greece
Written By: Christophoros
The Los Angeles Chargers recently announced their acquisition of international marketing rights in Greece as part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program. The move pairs Greek-American owner Dean Spanos’ franchise with an array of future marketing opportunities and fan events set to unfold in Greece, beginning with a 2025 NFL Draft Day 3 pick announced live from Athens on Saturday, April 26. “The homeland of my family, Greece, has left an eternal imprint on my heart,” said Spanos of the opportunity to grow the Chargers’ brand internationally.
Noah Allen and Konstantinos Karetsas: Uniting the Greek Diaspora Through Football
Written By: Vasili Sakpazis
The Greek Diaspora – a global network of millions of individuals with Hellenic heritage – has long played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Greek culture beyond the borders of the homeland. From Australia to the United States, Canada to Germany, Greeks abroad maintain deep emotional ties to their ancestral roots. However, one area where this connection remains underutilized is in sports, particularly football. That might be changing for the better, thanks to the recent emergence of two young Greek footballers: Noah Allen and Konstantinos Karetsas.
Honoring Marinos Ritsoudis, Orthodox Hero
Written By: Stephanos
Today marks the 25-year anniversary of an extremely significant event in Orthodox world history. On March 24th, 1999, NATO, under the direction of the United States, began Operation Allied Force, a bombing campaign to intervene and end the Yugoslav-Kosovo war. This illegal intervention lasted from until June 10th, 1999, leading to the deaths of 1,008 service members, injuring 5,000 more, and martyring 2,000 civilians along with an estimated 12,000 injured.
Scenes of the Greek Revolution: Essential Works by Theodoros Vryzakis
Written By: KTE Executive Board
You may not recognize the name of painter Theodoros Vryzakis, but his impact on Greece and the construction of the national ethos was very profound. His paintings depicting the Greek Revolution were highly acclaimed upon their debut in the mid-19th century, and they continue to shape the Diaspora’s appreciation of the Revolution in the modern day. Vryzakis was an orphan whose father was hanged by the Turks at the beginning of the war effort.
Εlliniki Lysi has risen above 10% in recent polls, but what do they believe?
Written By: Dimitri Karnavas
Greek Solution, or Ελληνική Λύση, is a Greek political party formed in 2016 by former Member of Parliament (MP) Kyriakos Velopoulos. Since then, the party has risen to third place in the most recent polls, gaining notoriety and more than doubling its appeal since the 2023 parliamentary elections. However, Greek-Americans seem relatively unfamiliar with the party and its particular positions. The party has a traditionalist, populist, and patriotic character. Here are a few key points that distinguish them from others in the Hellenic political arena, as reported by a Greek-American member of their youth wing.
Sectarian Violence Leaves Alawites and Orthodox Christians Vulnerable in Syria
Written By: Alexandros
After the fall of former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, many Syrians hoped their country would begin to recover from the devastating decade-long civil war that had torn it apart and left the civilian population in peril. The new Syrian government, largely made up of remnants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, vowed to usher in a new era of prosperity and democracy for the nation. Unfortunately, these promises have yet to materialize.
Why KTE? (2025 Update)
Written By: Alexandros
The original idea for To Kinima Tou Ethnous (KTE) was first conceived in a Chicago hotel room when a small contingent of socially conservative and religious friends gathered to discuss Greek politics and current events. Initially, our intent was to create an organization dedicated chiefly to Hellenic politics – something that would eventually grow to become an electoral player. When that initial meeting occurred, 2024 had already ushered in significant changes that marked the end of the traditional Greece I had once placed so much faith in as a young man.
Greek Immigration Policy Risks Permanent Welfare Status for Migrants
Written By: Alexandros
Immigration remains a leading political issue for many nations on the global stage, and Greece is no exception. As the left continues to support pro-immigrant policies, conservatives in Greece are urging the government to reform national policy to better balance the needs of the local population with those of immigrants. The Greek government’s actual long-term immigration plan has been shrouded in mystery, fanning the flames of public discourse. However, several flaws in national policy can be identified by examining the official model for the integration of refugees and asylum seekers found on the Greek government’s website.
Fighting for Family Land in Greece: A Diasporic Dilemma
Written By: Penelope Conomos Benis
When my father passed away in 2017, I was faced with a dilemma experienced by many Diasporans: should I preserve my ancestral footprint by claiming inheritance to family property in Greece? After years of fact-finding, investigative research, and a hefty amount of internal debate, I’ve come to realize the answer is dependent on navigating both the emotional and practical facets of this age-old question. The following article will serve as part one of a two-part series addressing the complexities of land endowment in Greece.
DOGE investigation reveals U.S. interference in Greek domestic affairs
Written By: Alexandros
Over the past several weeks, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) group has launched a sweeping audit and investigation into American discretionary spending and social programs. These efforts have uncovered numerous controversial initiatives by the U.S. federal government, including one based in Greece titled “Empowering LGBTQIA+ Refugees in Greece.” The grant allotted $25,000 to “provide material and psychological support to LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers and refugees,” seeking also to “inform and raise awareness of civil society on issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.
A Forgotten History: Unpacking Greece’s Relationship with Russia
Written By: Alexandros
Greeks are deeply divided on their government’s stance toward the Russia-Ukraine War. Many political parties in Greece are expressly pro-Russia, such as Ellinikí Lýsi and Νίκη, who have campaigned to rebuild political and economic relations with Russia. Meanwhile, the current ruling party, New Democracy, continues to support Ukraine’s military as part of its center-right platform. Given this political scenario, the idea of realigning all of Greece towards the Russian sphere seems unlikely.
Explaining the Greek-American Identity to Local Greeks
Written By: Alexandros
When my Pappou left Greece in the aftermath of the Greek Civil War, he came to the United States with hopes of building a new future. Although he left the nation of his ancestors behind, he resisted assimilation in various ways and imparted upon my father – and eventually me and my brothers – an intense pride and admiration for our homeland and our people. He lived as a true Hellenic patriot, remaining a pillar of Seattle’s Greek community and a lifelong member of the Orthodox Church.
Little Things Greek Americans Don’t Know About Local Greeks
Written By: Will Anagnos
I had a conversation with my sister recently about all the things that surprised her when she moved from America to Greece. It’s pretty interesting, watching her absorb all the same minor cultural shocks I experienced when I left for Greece a few years prior. Let’s say you want to settle down with a nice Greek guy – which my sister has been considering. Chances are, if he’s under 35, he probably still lives with his mother.
Top Issues Facing Greece in 2025
Written By: Alexandros
As the Greek Diaspora continues to monitor Greece from afar, embracing the new year presents an annual opportunity to reflect on the recent past of our great nation and consider its near future. This article will primarily be occupied with predicting the most pressing issues facing Greece in 2025, and showcasing KTE’s unique policy prescription for the Hellenic government. Demographics 2025 will be a year of shifting demographics. Last year, countless international news agencies published stories about the burgeoning demographic crisis in Greece.
Why Greece should leave the E.U.
Written By: Dimitri Karnavas
The Greece we know today was born when Greek patriots declared independence from the Ottomans in 1821, fighting multiple costly wars for years against the Turks, who had amassed a European empire and enslaved Greeks for over three hundred years. While our ancestors bravely fought their oppressors and established independence from the Turks over two centuries ago, the European Union today curtails our independence and sovereignty in trade, immigration, and defense.
A Greek American’s Guide to Joining the Greek Military
Written By: Christophoros
For this article, KTE interviewed multiple Greek-Americans who have completed their military training in Greece. We cover the long journey toward securing approval to enlist, plus all the do’s and don’ts of entering into Greek military service. Keep in mind the information in this article is dependent on many factors, such as where your basic training occurs, length of time served, etc. Those seriously interested in military service should supplement reading this article by watching online informational videos like this one prior to enlisting.
Macedonia: Unpacking its Greek history, struggle, and identity
Written By: Ioannis
Macedonia has long been contested not only for its historical significance, but also for the geopolitical position it holds. An area steeped in history, it is known as the home of one of the greatest Greeks to have ever lived. Today, more than ever, it is important for Greeks old and young alike to preserve the Hellenistic and cultural legacy that the name “Macedonia” holds, as well as remembering the sacrifices of countless heroes who died to defend its heritage.
Top American Universities Offering Hellenic Studies
Written By: Christophoros
When I was busy choosing a college to entrust with my postsecondary education, picking one that taught Hellenic studies was far from my mind. It’s surprising because I grew up in a strong Greek-American household, and embracing my Greek identity took center stage all throughout childhood. Then a funny thing happened. I signed up for a core requirement class during my freshman year of college and, luckily, the professor happened to be Greek.
Interviewing for Greek Citizenship? Here’s Three Keys To Success
Written By: Christophoros
Obtaining Greek Citizenship through naturalization requires applicants to successfully pass an interview conducted by a government official, in accordance with Article 10 of the Greek Nationality Code. Of course, not everyone pursuing citizenship needs to go the naturalization route – only those whose parents weren’t citizens, and therefore must link their ancestry through a more distant relative, such as a grandparent or uncle. Many people are curious about what the interview entails, and the easiest way to explain it is by characterizing the test as a measure of one’s Greekness.
Economics Or Values: What’s Really Behind Greece’s Population Decline?
Written By: KTE Executive Board
Brain drain. Declining birth and fertility rates. Low economic mobility. The numbers are staggering: so far in 2024, Greece’s birth rate has been 6.87 births per 1,000 people. That’s less than half the birth rate in Turkey, which is 14.69 per 1,000 people this year. Greece’s population has been declining for over a decade now, with a 3.1% drop in population from 2011 to 2021. It’s all bad news for Greece and it’s all connected.
Why We Gave Our Children Greek Citizenship
Written By: Penelope Conomos Benis
I’ll admit that at first, the little voice in my head was screaming “Όχι!” when my husband suggested we obtain our children their Greek citizenship. At the time, my three sons were aged seven, eight and nine. Internally, I went back and forth with myself about the possible benefits and risks. Externally, we began to initiate the process. My father, who was a first generation Greek-American originating from Kythira, strongly objected.
5 Ways to Get Your Greek Citizenship Done Faster
Written By: Christophoros
As many in the Greek Diaspora know all too well, getting your Greek Citizenship can be a long and difficult process. This is because people are often stuck communicating with the Greek government through consulates and embassies in America, which are often understaffed and poor at communication. We at KTE have heard countless stories from Greeks living all over the world about how hard it is to track down all the necessary documents to make their Greek citizenry official, even after multiple years into the process.
Demographic Replacement in Greece
Written By: Alexandros
Demographic replacement and immigration have emerged as the most important political issues over the last three U.S. election cycles. By 2045, America will be a minority white country – compared to 1960, when the country was 85% white. Many people debate the founding of America as a country that owned slaves and was essentially a white-ethnostate in the early years of its existence. The common argument is that in the modern day, America has expanded in scope to now include people of many races, religions, and ethnicities, and its demographic makeup is of little concern.
How Greek Orthodoxy Healed Me From Depression
Written By: Christophoros
When I experienced mental health issues for the first time at age 22, it swiftly knocked the wind out of my sails and completely blindsided me. I eventually figured out my depression was tied to deep anxiety over graduating from college, but the effects permeated through all aspects of my life and significantly impacted my Greek Orthodox spirituality. Many people don’t know that 29% of US adults will be diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives, and that number has grown by almost 10% in less than a decade, according to Gallup.
Tradition: The Antidote to Radical Leftism
Written By: Alexandros
Radical leftism is a social contagion. I should know. Take it from someone who grew up in Seattle, WA – it’s about as liberal as any place in the world. I was raised in the early 2000s and reached my teens by the mid-2010s. I saw my hometown slowly devolve from a pretty normal place into an environment where hyper-sexualism, self-worship, and radical liberal ideals became not just popular – but trendy.
Greeks For Trump? How Greek Americans Will Be Voting in 2024
Written By: Dimitris Karnavas
Greek-Americans have a history of high voter turnout in the United States compared to other ethnic groups. It’s an unsurprising trend considering Greece pioneered the democratic system that strongly influenced America’s own political structure. This year, several prominent Greek-American politicians have voiced their support for President Donald Trump, with one predicting a 75% Greek-American turnout for Trump in 2024. Historically, the Greek community has leaned toward conservatism, influenced by their Orthodox religious values, traditional family roles, and anti-communism sentiments.
Greece's Social, Political & Economic Challenges: A Greek-American’s View After 8 Years In Greece
Written By: Will Anagnos
When I first moved to Greece over eight years ago, I was drawn by the country’s rich history, culture, and warm people. As a Greek American, I knew I would have an easier time fitting in. Greece offered all that I expected, but it also revealed a mix of social, political, and economic challenges that I was not expecting. As a Greek-American, I’ve had a unique perspective. I feel close to Greece as my ancestral homeland, but after so many years and so many conversations, I also see the differences in its systems and values from what I grew up with in America.
Oxi Day: Freedom or Death
Written By: Anastasios
It is October of 1940. World War II has been raging for 13 months between the Axis powers – chiefly Germany and Italy – and the Allies, recently being reduced to just the United Kingdom and her commonwealth nations. The German army appears entirely unstoppable, having achieved stunning victories over the Allies who have lost their entire presence on the European continent. Benito Mussolini, envious of his ally’s conquests, issues an ultimatum to Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas on October 28th, 1940.
The ‘Ghettoization’ of Greece: How Trap Culture is Causing a Surge in Youth Violence
Written By: KTE Executive Board
A recent newspaper article revealed that over the past nine months, 10,600 Greek youth have been arrested for theft, drug possession, committing bodily harm, or possessing a deadly weapon. The Greek Minister of Citizen Protection addressed this rise in juvenile delinquency, explaining that there has been a 43% increase in arrests of underage offenders compared to 2023. Of the 10,600 arrests made so far this year, 2,285 were arrested for theft, and 873 for drug possession.
Why Men Of The Greek Diaspora Should Do Their Military Service
Written By: Christophoros
I once called up the Greek Consulate of Los Angeles to set a date for my required military service, and the employee on the other end of the line automatically assumed I was attempting to secure an exemption. She was quite surprised when I explained to her that I fully intended to complete the obligatory three months of training for Greek citizens born abroad. During that same phone call, I was informed I did not have to complete the mandatory training if I spent less than six months per year in Greece – a loophole I already knew about – to which I reaffirmed my desire to serve.
An Unbiased Breakdown of Greece’s 10 Main Political Parties
Written By: Dimitris Karnavas
Greek politics have utilized a Parliamentary Democracy since 1974, operating under a multi-party system that stands in stark contrast to the two-party political landscape Americans are accustomed to. Today, Nea Demokratia (or New Democracy) leads Greece as the ruling party, but there are many other organizations nipping at their heels and rounding out the expansive political arena. Here is a straightforward breakdown of the 10 political parties in the Greek Parliament, listed from most left-wing to centrist to right-wing.
Levantine Greeks Need Protection by the Greek Government Amid Arab-Israeli War
Written By: Alexandros
Many Greeks worldwide do not realize why the current conflict in the Middle East affects Greece in a very profound way. With the entire world caught up in an Israel vs. Palestine dialectic, it is continually lost on the average Greek that there is a very strong Greek Orthodox Christian community located in the Levant, which numbers approximately 1.5 million: 1.1 million in Syria, 100,000 in Israel, and 300,000 in Jordan to be exact.
A Parent’s Perspective: Planning Your Family’s First Trip to Greece
Written By: Penelope Conomos Benis
You’ve only got one chance to make a good first impression. An introduction to beautiful Greece is the type of task any Greek parent can romanticize: the whitewashed structures donning symbolic blue domes, farm to table cuisine, picturesque beaches, history coming to life, and filotimo enveloping it all. Between seeing new lands, first meetings with native Greek family members and adjusting to cultural norms in a foreign venue, there are undoubtedly many twists and turns along the first family sojourn to the fatherland.
In Memory of Father Gregory Salloum, Recently Killed in Israeli Air Strike
Written By: Alexandros
Father Gregory Salloum was a Greek Orthodox priest in the village of Ibl Al Saqi, a town in the Marjeyoun district in Southern Lebanon. The town has a population of roughly 85,000 and is in close proximity to the Israeli occupied Golan Heights. On September 30th, 2024, Israel launched a large-scale strike accompanied by a minor ground incursion into Lebanese territory. It has been reported that one of the missile strikes seriously injured Fr.
I Was Blindsided When I Moved To Greece: Here’s What You Should Know Before You Visit
Written By: Will Anagnos
Before moving to Greece in 2016, I thought I had prepared myself well. I wanted to understand and fit in as much as possible, anticipating the cultural differences I would encounter while living in a foreign country. However, there were many things about Greece — and the Greeks — that I hadn’t expected. Here are a few things that stood out to me: The Way Greeks Communicate Greek conversations can sound intense, even if they’re just casual discussions.
Q+A with Alexandros Benis: Putting Our Founder On The Hot Seat
Written By: KTE Executive Board
Q: Why should someone like you, Alexandros, have any right to come into Greece, point problems out, and try to clean up the system – when you didn’t grow up in the system? Alexandros Benis (A.B.): “Let’s answer that by using the example of those who like to criticize the fact that I don’t speak fluent Greek. Unfortunately, I’m a product of a generation of Greeks who came to America and did not want to pass the Greek language to their children: they wanted to assimilate as quickly as possible.
Understanding What Greek Americans Can Do for Greece
Written By: Alexandros
When I think of solving the problems that Greece has today, my solutions almost always include the capacity of the Greek Diaspora to help Greece return to its former economic, social, and cultural glory. Everyone knows the economic hardships affecting Greece right now. Chief among them is the Greek government’s allowance of foreign national corporations to buy up land, inflate the cost of living, and siphon profits back to their home countries.
I Moved From Chicago to Greece: Here’s Why
Written By: Will Anagnos
I was raised in a Greek American home. Both of my parents were second-generation Greeks and deeply rooted in their cultural traditions. We went to church every Sunday, celebrated all the Greek holidays, and lived what I thought was a pretty typical Greek-American life. But there was one thing I never fully embraced: the language. Despite being surrounded by Greek culture, I never learned to speak Greek. In fact, I flunked Greek school, and my parents didn’t really push me to learn.
Why young Greek Americans should go to Ionian Village
Written By: Christophoros
For Greek Americans everywhere, Ionian Village is the best way to connect with their heritage through faith, fellowship and culture. Ask thousands of Greek Americans over the years about Ionian Village (IV) – the Greek Orthodox summer camp held near Patra, Greece for young Hellenes – and they will use phrases like “life-changing” and “the best summer of my life” to describe it. We can attest to having the same priceless experience, and a whole lot more.
Raising a Family in the Spirit of Hellenism
Written By: Penelope Conomos Benis
As parents, we have a profound influence over what we expose to our children. It’s a big responsibility, and oftentimes a challenge given the surrounding forces of social media. With respect to our Hellenic heritage, we are tasked with the onus of teaching our children its multifaceted composition: Orthodoxy, culture, and stewardship. As a mother of three sons – now college aged and beyond – I often reflect on the parental decisions my husband and I made: both positive and regretted, amid raising our children in the intended spirit of Hellenism.
Why Greek Orthodox Christianity is under fire in America
Written By: Pericles
When I was a young boy, I remember coming to church with my Father, who served as the priest of our small parish of less than 100 families. Growing up, I served on the altar through new parish assignments and all the milestones of life, even well into college. Young men who serve on the altar understand the mission to serve the Lord and assist the priest with the preparation of the holy and sacred mysteries every Sunday.
Why Greek Americans should visit Greece
Written By: Stavros
Greece is one of the most popular summer tourist destinations around the world – known far and wide as the perfect vacation spot for many reasons. For one, as an EU member state it is accessible, and English is commonly spoken by Greeks living there. Also, most places have fair prices. The natural beauty in the mountains and at the beaches draws in tourists by the hundreds of thousands. It is a place where it is easy to relax, but also safe to explore.
How to (really) get your Greek ID card
Written By: KTE Executive Board
If you already have your Greek Citizenship, owning a Greek ID card is extremely helpful and useful. The new Greek ID card is digitized and scans at governmental security checkpoints in all EU member countries, which means shorter lines at airports and being considered an EU passport holder entering your home country for all member states. Of course, you can also use it as a form of ID anywhere in Greece, which is good because it never hurts to have the authorities view you as more of a local and not as a tourist.
The Case For (And Against) Nationalizing Vital Industries in Greece
Written By: Alexandros
What is the purpose of the government when it comes to making economic decisions? The modern political landscape is entirely monolithic as it relates to its nearly religious dedication to free market capitalism. However, much of the justification for such economic policies is founded upon certain presuppositions that KTE does not subscribe to. Before you can form economic policy, you must first define the roles of the state and outline its responsibilities.
Why Third Generation Greeks Have One Last Chance to Claim Their Heritage
Written By: Christophoros
If you’re a third generation Greek living in America, Canada, Australia or any other major hub of Hellenes worldwide, there’s a good chance you are still clinging onto your Greek heritage. That’s a good thing, but it must be said that those members of the Diaspora statistically have a very consequential decision to make: they can either repatriate themselves back to Greece, or let the forces of Western culture erase their children’s heritage, and the heritage of their children’s children.
After 2024, the Olympics should permanently return to Greece
Written By: KTE Executive Board
As Greek Americans, there are many aspects of the Hellenistic culture we respect – including our fatherland’s place as the origin point of the Olympics. With global interest at an all-time high for the Paris 2024 Games, it is important to remember the historic genesis of the Olympics. This article will focus on the enduring nature of the world’s most highly regarded competitive event and why it should uphold the memory – and intent – of its origins.
Greek-Americans Rally Support for their Homeland in 2024 Paris Olympics
Written By: Nikolas
The relationship between Greece and its American Diaspora has always been one of profound affection and outpouring support. Meanwhile, Greek patriotism in the states seems to reach new heights with every iteration of the Olympic Games, which famously originated in Olympia, Greece in 776 B.C. Greek-Americans are well-known for their unabashed pride in their heritage, and the response to the 2024 Paris Olympics are a prime example. With these most recent Olympic Games heading into their final week, let’s take a closer look into the commitment shown from Greek-Americans to support their homeland in a myriad of ways.
What KTE’s Founders Learned Working at a Greek Restaurant in Greece
Written By: Christophoros
This summer my brother and I lived out the Greek American dream: we spent a season working for free at a Greek restaurant in Greece. Working in our homeland, a place our Pappou fled after WWII, was extremely eye-opening and one of the richest life experiences we have shared together. My brother Alexandros and I are open and honest about the fact that we are Greek Americans, not Greeks. However, like many Greek Americans, we crave a return to Greece and felt its call grow in the truest sense from everything we learned working at Medusa Milos, one of the best authentic restaurants in all of Greece.
Greece is my Medicine
Written By: Christophoros
Greece is my medicine. Many other Greeks living abroad know what I mean when I say this – I need to visit the homeland of my ancestors regularly to reconnect with the culture, language and spiritual traditions I have admired all my life. Diaspora Greeks are part of a uniquely split identity between the Greek heritage we treasure and the Western environment our relatives willingly sought out. Yes, my ancestors fled Greece after WWII in pursuit of greater economic promises, but now that those promises have been fully explored and American society has fundamentally changed for the worse, I crave a permanent return to Greece for myself and my future children.
Discovering the Greek Family Unit, From a Generation X Perspective
Written By: Penelope
I’ve always been proud of my Greek heritage – that’s an understatement for myself and many fellow Hellenes. In my youth, I embraced it in what I thought was its entirety. I learned how to Greek dance, regularly attended Greek Orthodox Church, enrolled myself in Greek school, strictly followed the religious calendar and dyed my Easter eggs red. Growing up, I participated in JOY, GOYA and YAL. I taught myself to cook all of my favorite Greek dishes.
Understanding the Greek Tax Code and the Impact of Potential Tax Cuts
Written By: Anastasios
The Greek tax code has long been a topic of intense discussion and scrutiny, both domestically and internationally. Greece’s financial landscape, marked by the aftermath of a severe debt crisis and stringent austerity measures, has been shaped significantly by its tax policies. This article aims to provide an overview of the Greek tax code and analyze the benefits of lowering taxes in Greece while also addressing the common arguments against doing so.
How to (really) get your Greek Citizenship
Written By: Christophoros
Unlike the United States, where citizenship is assigned by birth in the country’s borders, Greek Citizenship is done by parentage. As far as the legal process goes, Greeks in the diaspora need to prove to the Greek government that they have an ancestor with Greek Citizenship. Greek Americans are now required to work their citizenship process through one of the eight General Consulates of the Hellenic Republic within the United States that they were born closest to.
Two Versions of Greece
Written By: Alexandros
There exists two distinct versions of Greece: the one imagined and lived by those in the diaspora, and the one imagined and lived by Greeks who remain, to this day, in the fatherland. The Greece that is imagined by the current population is one desperately trying to impersonate America and its neighbors. It is consumed by consumerism, it hastens to glorify American art, music, and its heroes, and it is becoming secular and modern in every way imaginable by the West.
Why do Greek Americans go to church more than Greeks in the homeland?
Written By: Anastasios
Because no Greeks in America would even know they were Greek if it wasn’t for the church. Despite existing in a modern-day, pluralistic America, Greek Orthodox churches play a vital role in transmitting and preserving Hellenic culture, even among those who can hardly speak Greek. The reason some Greek Americans still know a few words of their ancestral language is solely because of the church’s presence and the religious traditions that sustain Greek identity. The higher church attendance among Greek Americans compared to Greeks in Greece can be attributed to several factors, including cultural, social, and historical differences.
De-Stigmatizing Right Wing Politics
Written By: Alexandros
The stigmatization of right wing politics is something that has plagued Greece for a long time, and it all comes back to what happened with Golden Dawn (Χρυσή Αυγή). Those familiar with 21st century Greek politics remember Golden Dawn for their ascription as a neo-Nazi and neo-fascist organization that defined the right wing political space before its leadership were sent to prison and the party was permanently dismantled in 2020.
The New Colonization of Greece
Written By: Alexandros
Remembering our four centuries under Ottoman rule, Greeks should consider the cultural infiltration of America a new kind of societal subversion and defend our traditions accordingly. Greece was once a colony of the Ottoman Empire. Across nearly 400 years, Greeks were second-class citizens in the land they inhabited for millennia. During this period of occupation and the many wars of reconquest that were fought to reclaim Hellenic territory, untold millions of Greeks were lost due to genocide, starvation, famine, war, and forced conversion and assimilation.
Why KTE?
Written By: Alexandros
Because the city on the hill is sinking. There is great need for serious reform in Greece and beyond. Following in the footsteps of secular American extremism is a dangerous place to take the Greek nation, and yet it is the precise direction the country is headed if things do not change quickly. Many Greeks residing abroad were stirred awake by the recent legalization of gay marriage in Greece, because it marked a concerning departure from its historically traditional society.
The Need for Right-Wing Consolidation in Greece
Written By: Alexandros
As of the European Parliament election results, nationalist parties in Greece account for nearly 20% of the Greek electorate. This would place the combined nationalist parties in the second place spot, ahead of left-wing SYRIZA and center-left PASOK. However, given the fragmentation of the Nationalist space in Greece, the support is distributed between 4 separate polling parties, with further fragmentation resulting from voters being drawn to the large center-right party Nea Dimokratia as well as several smaller right-wing parties that fail to garner the necessary 1% to register on polls.