Even though what most of White Australia recognises as Australia Day is a day of national mourning for the country’s Indigenous people, First People’s representatives have chosen this date to welcome Greek Immigrants to Australia.
The Association of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria celebrates its 35th birthday this year and an Indigenous committee will meet the Greek elders at Rye Pier this Sunday, 20 January 2019.
In a symbolic move that holds special significance, the Aborigines who have always maintained close relations with the Greek Australian population will mark the connection between the two peoples honouring the long standing relationship.
According to the Association’s President Giannis Kostoulias, the Indigenous Committee recognises that Greeks did not come to Australia to conquer it, but as immigrants, out of need, and have always respected first nations.
At the moment there are 100 Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs in the state while the overall number of members exceeds 20,000.
“There will be something for everyone. Glendi, food, games, fun,” Mr Kostoulias told Neos Kosmos, inviting the Greek Community to attend.
“The event takes place to celebrate Australia Day, however, we see to recognise the Indigenous nations as Australia’s first people and we wish to honour them at every opportunity we get.”