LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the annual Greek Independence Day
Parade in New York City on April 18, 2010, and commending the Federation
of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commemorate events of significance which add strength, vigor, and inspi-
ration to the cultural diversity and quality of life in the communities
of the great State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commemorate the annual Greek Independence Day Parade in New York City on
Sunday, April 18, 2010, and to commend the Federation of Hellenic Socie-
ties of Greater New York, which, this year, celebrates its 73rd Anniver-
sary; and
WHEREAS, The Greek Independence Day Parade is an annual celebration of
Hellenic identity; held on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue since 1951, it has
become a New York City tradition, attracting thousands of participants
and even more viewers; and
WHEREAS, Organized by the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater
New York since 1938, the Greek Independence Day Parade this year commem-
orates the 189th Anniversary of Greek Independence, March 25, 1821; and
WHEREAS, On March 25, 1821, the Greek flag was raised at the monastery
of Agia Lavras, marking the beginning of the war of independence against
the Ottoman Empire, which had occupied Greece for nearly 400 years;
fighting continued until 1829, when Greek independence was finally and
proudly achieved; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1937, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of
Greater New York represents a large number of Greek societies, fraterni-
ties and local organizations; the largest and oldest federation in Amer-
ica, its mission is to promote and preserve Greek-American heritage and
to organize and oversee numerous educational and philanthropic endeav-
ors; and
WHEREAS, Since its inception, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of
Greater New York has, in addition, distributed substantial funds for
medical aid, scholarships, disaster relief and other charitable causes
throughout North America and Greece; and
WHEREAS, The Greek Independence Day Parade provides an opportunity to
celebrate the rich history and heritage of the Hellenic people and to
proudly memorialize the contributions of Greek-Americans of the City and
State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the annual Greek Independence Day Parade in New York City on
April 18, 2010, and to commend the Federation of Hellenic Societies of
Greater New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York.