BRONX – On Tuesday, October 28, students at the Greek American Institute paid tribute to the heroes of the Greek-Italian War with a special ceremony to showcase their pride and respect for Greece and its rich history.
Taking place just after midday, the Greek school’s ‘Oxi’ Day celebrations welcomed students, teachers, parents, and special guests to come together and watch as students recited poems, sung traditional songs and paid tribute to the Greek heroes of 1940.
Celebrated annually on October 28, this day commemorates the moment when the former Prime Minister of Greece, Ioannis Metaxas responded with what is remembered as his ‘NO’ to an ultimatum from Benito Mussolini, the Italian leader at the time, who wanted to take over Greece.
In an interview with The National Herald, the music teacher and director of the Greek American Institute, Phyto Stratis expressed how the event was a very successful one, which welcomed the Consul General of Greece in New York, Iphigenia Kanara.
“What’s very unique about our school and really moving to witness, is the fact that our school is a multicultural one, you see all these non-Greek kids being so proud to celebrate Greece’s history and triumphs and their parents to be proud of their kids attending GAI (Greek American Institute),” Stratis told TNH.
“It’s a very unique experience that always brings tears to my eyes.”
The Greek American Institute Assistant Principal, Georgia Avraam, expressed how “October 28th was a historic day, not just for Greece – but for our school! Our incredible students gave a stunning OXI DAY performance in front of teachers, parents, and distinguished guests, including the Honorable Consul General of Greece in New York, Mrs. Iphigenia Kanara, and Reverend Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Protopresbyter and Director of the Greek Education Department.”
“This ‘OXI’ DAY reminded us that when we stand united, just like the Greeks did in 1940, there’s nothing we can’t achieve. ‘Ζήτω η Ελλάδα! Ζήτω το Όχι!’
Avraam additionally thanked the School’s amazing Greek department, including Ms. Sardi, and Mrs. Konstantinidou, whose dedication “made this performance shine.”
“Special thanks to our Music Director, Mr. Phytos Stratis, and Production Assistant, Mr. Anthony Mikolinacz, for bringing it all to life,” she added.
“We were also deeply honored to have Fr. Vasilios bless us with his presence, and we are truly grateful to Mr. Dimitratos, School Board President, for his unwavering support.”
