ΚΤΕ proudly joins Greeks around the world in celebrating Greek Independence Day on March 25th, a day that marks the heroic struggle for freedom and the enduring spirit of Hellenism. This momentous occasion commemorates the 1821 revolution against Ottoman rule, a defining chapter in Greek history that continues to inspire generations.
March 25th is also a deeply significant day in the Orthodox Christian calendar, as it marks the Feast of the Annunciation. This dual celebration underscores the profound connection between Hellenism and Orthodoxy, a bond that played a crucial role in sustaining the Greek people during centuries of foreign rule. The Orthodox faith was not only a source of spiritual strength, but also a beacon of hope that fueled the revolution and helped preserve Greek identity and culture.
Let us remember the importance of Orthodoxy to us Greeks and recall this quote that was eloquently expressed by one of our national heroes, Theodoros Kolokotronis, who declared, “Ο Θεός έβαλε την υπογραφή του για τη λευτεριά της Ελλάδας και δεν την παίρνει πίσω.” This translates to English as, “God gave His signature for the freedom of Greece and He is not taking it back.” These words reflect the unshakable faith that sustained the revolutionaries and continue to inspire the Greek people today.
For us Greeks, “freedom” is not merely an abstract ideal. It means liberation from centuries of oppression under the Ottoman Turks, where our Hellenic identity, language, and Faith were suppressed. It means the ability to openly practice Orthodox Christianity, to celebrate our heritage, and to have reclaimed a nation built on the principles of Hellenism.
The revolutionaries of 1821 did not fight for a vague notion of freedom, but rather for concrete freedoms of worship, self-determination, and the ability to live as Greeks in their own land without fear. Our battle cry, “Ελευθερία ή Θάνατος (Freedom or Death), was not merely a slogan, but our declaration of unwavering commitment to preserving Greek faith and culture, no matter the cost.
The war effort received critical support from many Diaspora communities abroad, primarily in Western Europe and Russia.
Of course, it is impossible to talk about the Greek Revolution without discussing the involvement of the Greek Diaspora. As an occupied power, the Greeks found it difficult to organize revolutionary political action within Greece, because Ottoman authorities went to great lengths to undermine serious plans for rebellion. Out of necessity, Greeks turned to their communities abroad to assist in the organization and planning of the Revolution of 1821.
The Filiki Eteria, a secret revolutionary organization founded in Odessa, Ukraine, was the group most responsible for the planning and execution of the Revolution. Many, if not most of the members of this organization were living outside of the Ottoman Empire, organizing and arranging finances from abroad. Indeed, throughout Greek history, the Diaspora has been intimately involved with every national struggle, remaining dedicated to their homeland despite physical separation.
“The Greek Revolution is impossible without the participation of the Diaspora,” contends Alexandros Benis, KTE President. “Without a Greek Diaspora, you don’t have a Greek revolution.”
We at KTE believe the Greek Diaspora still has a significant role to play in Greece. The 21st century has brought about a new set of challenges to Greece, spanning the effects of the economic crisis, the ongoing demographic crisis, and the massive social and cultural upheaval impacting the fabric of our great nation, all of which necessitates involvement and support from the Diaspora.
As such, Greek Independence Day is not only a tribute to the sacrifices of the past, but also a call to uphold the values of courage, unity, and perseverance today. As a community, we must reflect on the resilience of our ancestors and reaffirm our commitment to preserving and promoting our rich cultural and religious heritage.
We invite all Hellenes and Phil-Hellenes to join KTE in this celebration, as we pay homage to the heroes of 1821 and renew our dedication to Hellenic ideals and Orthodox faith. May the spirit of Greek Independence Day continue to inspire us all.
Ζήτω η Ελλάδα! Ζήτω η Ελευθερία! Ζήτω η Ορθοδοξία!