Celebrating Greek Independence Day

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Services, Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, attended the Greek National Independence Day celebrations in Sydney today.

As part of the celebrations, the Senator, who has special responsibility for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, laid a wreath at the Cenotaph in Martin Place.

“Today is not just a celebration of Greek National Day, but it is also a day to commemorate the start of the War of Greek Independence on 25 March 1821 and to pay tribute to those who lost their lives fighting for freedom,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said.

“This year marks the 193rd anniversary of this historic moment and also affords us the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of Greek Australians to our nation.

“This country is now home to people from almost every culture and every part of the globe, including the thriving 400,000-strong community of Greek origin.

“Our successful Australian multicultural society is founded on a commitment to Australia, its laws and its values.

“Australians of Greek background have worked extremely hard to maintain their cultural heritage, while at the same time embracing and contributing to the broader Australian community.

“Australia shares a long friendship with the people of Greece, forged on the front lines of World War II.

“On Greek National Independence Day we honour this friendship and I look forward to us building an even stronger relationship in the years ahead.”