HACKENSACK, NJ – [Photos by Bergen County]
The County of Bergen, in partnership with the AHEPA Bergen Knights Chapter 285, the AHEPA Alexander Hamilton Chapter 54, and the AHEPA Ramapo Chapter 453, held its Annual Greek Independence Day and Flag Raising Ceremony at Two Bergen County Plaza on March 20.
“American history and Greek history are greatly intertwined, as our country’s founders drew on the democratic principles of ancient Greece while establishing the United States and sought wisdom from Greek history and philosophy. Today, Bergen County is a proud home to one of the largest Greek populations in New Jersey”, notes a statement by the County.
Welcome remarks were given by Dr. Peter Hilaris, President of the Bergen Knights Chapter 285. Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III delivered remarks and presented a proclamation declaring March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day. The proclamation was presented to Consul of Greece in New York Petros Dorizas who delivered greeting remarks to the audience.
A cultural performance was given by Tasos Papaioannou and George Stathos.
Closing remarks were delivered by Bergen County Commissioner Chair Pro Tempore Dr. Joan Voss.
The County also presented community members Nikolaos Katsapis, Jerry Makris and Nicholas Pirsos, with 2025 Greek Independence Day Outstanding Community Service Awards.
The event culminated in the singing of the Greek National Anthem by Anna Lilikas while a video of the Greek flag being raised in the Piazza of One Bergen County Plaza played.
The hosts expressed gratitude to Fantis Foods of Carlstadt and Kontos Foods, Inc. of Paterson for the reception that followed.
