Spring in Washington D.C. unfolded with the blue and white of Greece flowing proudly through diplomatic halls, as the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence Day brought together political leaders, diplomats, and members of the Greek diaspora for a series of commemorative events. The Greek Embassy, on March 26, 2025 led by Her Excellency, Ambassador Ekaterini Nassika, hosted dignitaries and friends of Greece to reflect on a legacy that continues to resonate with democratic values across generations at the Harvard Center for Hellenic Studies in Washington DC.
The ceremony opened with a moving rendition of the Greek National Anthem by a 3rd grader from the Hellenic School of Potomac, followed by a dignified performance of the U.S. National Anthem by an 8th grader from the same institution.
The program transitioned seamlessly into remarks from key U.S. lawmakers. Congressman Chris Pappas, representing New Hampshire’s First Congressional District in Congress, serving on the Veterans’ Affairs, and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, opened with warmth and clarity, invoking the parallel cries for freedom that birthed both Greek and American independence. “Freedom or death,” he recalled, stood at the heart of the 1821 uprising. “It’s all born out of the same sentiment… the desire of people who yearn to breathe free.” Flanked by his fellow co-chairs of the Hellenic Caucus—Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and Rep. Dina Titus, from Nevada—Pappas noted the bipartisan commitment to a partnership that transcends party lines. “In an era where politics seems frayed and charged, it feels good to work together with a common purpose,” he added, as the venue filled with nods of agreement.
Building on that sentiment, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis serving her third term representing New York’s 11th Congressional District which encompasses Staten Island and parts of Southern Brooklyn brought her personal connection to the event. Her week began at the White House and continued through celebrations at the National Archives, culminating in her declaration to march on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. “This is Greek Independence Week,” she said with a smile, capturing the festive atmosphere. She also announced her upcoming delegation to Athens and Souda Bay, reflecting Congress’ interest in understanding the strategic relevance of Greece in today’s geopolitical landscape. “We must always stand with our allies, Greece and Cyprus,” she said firmly.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Joshua Huck added another layer to the evening, blending personal anecdote with policy. “My son was born on March 25,” he said, linking his own life to the date etched in Greek history. With ease, he walked through the many layers of U.S.-Greek cooperation—military, economic, and cultural. He praised Greece for its defense investments and energy innovations, noting the country’s leadership in energy security and regional stability. “Over the years, we have stood by one another in war and peace, good times and bad,” he said. “And we will continue to do so.”
The cultural dimension received special attention. With the recent visits of Greece’s Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, the two countries advanced talks on cultural exchange and combatting antiquities trafficking. Huck called the relationship “broad and deep,” pointing to the upcoming U.S.-Greece Strategic Dialogue in Athens as the next major opportunity for progress.
Ambassador Nassika offered a poetic frame for the evening. Comparing history to a relay race, she described the baton as the ideas of freedom and justice carried forward by generations. “Some may drop out of the race. Others may struggle to keep up. But the relay always continues,” she said. Her words struck a balance between solemn reflection and resilient hope.
The evening didn’t linger in the past. Instead, every speaker brought attention to the present and future of the Greek-American relationship—a partnership that continues to evolve in a world constantly in flux. The Greek community in the United States, present in large numbers throughout the evening, stood as living proof of this bridge between two democracies.
From formal speeches to informal conversations, Greek National Day in Washington D.C. moved far beyond ceremonial gestures. It breathed life into shared ideals and showed how a historic alliance continues to grow through mutual respect, strategic cooperation, and cultural appreciation.
As Congressman Pappas put it, “Here’s to the next 204 years.” The spirit of 1821 lives on—not only in the history books, but in the ongoing dialogue between Greece and the United States.
Diplomatic Watch had the opportunity for photo moments with several diplomats, including the Ambassadors of Greece, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Peru, as well as representatives from Bulgaria, Greece, and the D.C. Mayor’s Office.
