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WASHINGTON — Greek Americans from across the country gathered at the U.S. Capitol on March 25, 2026, for the inaugural Greek Independence Day Celebration, marking the 205th anniversary of Greece’s fight for independence and the longstanding alliance between the United States and the Hellenic Republic.

The event brought together members of Congress, diplomats, community leaders, and business figures to honor the democratic values shared by both nations.

Kimberly Guilfoyle, U.S. Ambassador to Greece, addresses guests at a Greek Independence Day celebration in Washington, D.C. beside Archon Markos Marinakis, who organized the event. (Photo courtesy of Markos Marinakis)

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID); Sen. Jon Husted (R-OH); Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus; Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11); and Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-FL-8).

U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle delivered remarks underscoring the growing strength of bilateral ties, citing expanding economic, security, and cultural cooperation between the two NATO allies in the Eastern Mediterranean. Also addressing the gathering were Hellenic Republic Ambassador to the United States Antonios Alexandridis and Cyprus Ambassador to the United States Evangelos Savva.

“Beneath the dome of the United States Capitol, we honor the spirit of March 25th — the day a small nation lit a flame of freedom that inspired the world,” said Markos Marinakis, Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and member of the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, one of the event’s organizers.

At the event, Archon Markos Marinakis, who helped organize the event, said “the struggle of the Greek people reminds us that liberty is never granted; it is earned through courage, sacrifice, and unbreakable hope.” (Photo courtesy of Markos Marinakis)

The celebration was held with the support of the Chios Societies of America and Canada and featured participation from community organizations, youth representatives, and national Hellenic institutions.

Organizers said they intend the event to become an annual tradition at the Capitol, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to democracy, freedom, and partnership.

 

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