Pappas, Billirakis, Hellenic Caucus Co-Chairs, Lead Colleagues in Celebrating 205th Anniversary of Greek Independence

Nearly two million Americans proudly claim Greek ancestry, a testament to the enduring cultural and historical ties between the United States and Greece—ties that remain especially vibrant in communities across the nation. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Gus Billrakis (FL-12) , Co-Chairs of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, were joined by Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Dina Titus (NV-01), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Grace Meng (NY-6) and Congressmen Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Jim Costa (CA-21), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02) in introducing a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence. This resolution honors the courage and resilience of the Greek people in their fight for liberty and independence, while also recognizing the profound and enduring partnership between Greece and the United States—two nations bound by shared democratic ideals, mutual respect, and a steadfast commitment to freedom.

“As we mark 205 years of Greek Independence, I join my fellow Greek-Americans and colleagues of the Hellenic Caucus in commemorating the Greeks’ fight for freedom after nearly 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire,” said Congressman Pappas. “Greece’s courage and determination for sovereignty mirrors the United States’ own fight for independence and further unites our nations with a shared commitment to freedom and to democracy. On the anniversary of Greek Independence, we celebrate liberty and honor those lost in the pursuit of freedom.”

“It is with great pride that I recognize the 205th Anniversary of Greek Independence and celebrate both Greek and American democracy,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Like the American revolutionaries who fought for independence and established this great republic we call the ‘Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave,’ Greek freedom fighters began an arduous struggle to secure independence for Greece and its people 205 years ago. The lessons the Greeks taught us continue to inspire and strengthen those facing persecution around the world today. By honoring the Greek struggle for independence, we reaffirm the values and ideals that make our nation great. Each time I perform my Constitutional duties, I do so mindful of the legacy of the ancient Greeks and our American forefathers. As Americans, we must continue to embrace the spirit of freedom and liberty that defines both of our great nations.”

“From the Pindus Mountains of northern Greece to my hometown of Nashua, one of the through lines in what I’ve taken from my Greek American heritage is an important one for today and for this moment: philotimo," said Congresswoman Goodlander. "I understand that to be a love of honor, a love of country, and a real belief in and commitment to one another. May it light the way today and in the days ahead.”

“On this meaningful anniversary, we recognize the special bond between the United States and Greece and celebrate the boundless spirit of the vibrant Hellenic diaspora,” said Congresswoman Titus. “As a member of the Hellenic Caucus in Congress, I will ensure the United States remains a steadfast ally and continues to bolster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.”

“Greece and the United States have deep ties and a special friendship that reflects our shared historical commitment to independence and democracy,”said Congressman Menendez. “I am honored to sponsor this resolution to celebrate the 205th anniversary of Greece’s independence and to recognize Greek Americans' contributions globally and to the United States.” 

“I am proud to represent the vibrant Greek community in Rhode Island’s Second District and am grateful to join this resolution recognizing Greek Independence Day,” said Congressman Magaziner. “During this 205th Independence Anniversary, we celebrate the enduring contributions of Greek Americans and the shared democratic values that strengthen our countries.”

“Democracy started in ancient Greece under the belief that power belongs to the people and not to kings. Two centuries later, that same idea binds Greece and the United States together as partners in the ongoing and difficult work of self-government. In New Jersey’s Sixth District, I see that legacy every day in a vibrant Greek-American community that has helped shape our culture, economy, and civic life. I’m proud that our resolution honors Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule and reaffirms that democracy everywhere is worth fighting for,” said Congressman Pallone. 

“Greece’s independence is a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom is never easy, but it is always worth it,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “As the son of a Greek immigrant, I am proud to celebrate the shared values of our two nations—liberty, self-government, and the rule of law. As we mark this 205th anniversary, we honor that legacy and stand firm in defending freedom for generations to come.”

The Members emphasized that the anniversary serves not only as a commemoration of Greece’s historic fight for sovereignty, but also as a reaffirmation of the shared democratic principles that continue to guide both nations. From the philosophical foundations laid in ancient Greece to the modern alliance between the United States and Greece, this relationship remains a cornerstone of global democracy and stability.