Steve Rothman: “I rise in celebration of the 184th Anniversary of Greek Independence and to thank my colleagues, Mr. Bilirakis and Mrs.…”

“I rise in celebration of the 184th Anniversary of Greek Independence and to thank my colleagues, Mr. Bilirakis and Mrs. Maloney, who have once again shown great leadership in their efforts to organize this special order. On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate our special ties of friendship, history, and shared values with Greece. In doing so, we not only honor such an important day in Greek history, but also the strong and unique relationship that exists today between the United States and Greece. Our two nations have enjoyed close relations since the people of Greece declared their independence on March 25, 1821. Our country has welcomed generations of Greek immigrants, and we are grateful for how they have enhanced our culture and contributed to our country in a variety of fields, including philosophy, architecture, politics and the arts. I am so proud to have a thriving community of Hellenic-Americans in the 9th District of New Jersey. I salute them and their ancestors' struggle for freedom on the anniversary of Greek Independence Day and I commend them for their tremendous contributions to the very fabric of our community. For nearly 200 years, the American and Greek peoples have shared a profound commitment to democratic principles, and have worked to create societies built on these principles.”