South Australian Minister Tom Koutsantonis delivered a powerful tribute to Greece’s struggle for independence against Ottoman colonial subjugation, which began 25 March, 1821. He highlighted the resilience and enduring spirit of the Greek people.
“We are descendants of heroes, and a people that despite centuries of slavery and subjugation stood and fought for freedom,” Koutsantonis declared at a reception hosted by the Consul General of Greece in South Australia, Alexandra Theodoropoulou, on Tuesday.
The event marked Greek National Day, commemorating the start of the Greek War of Independence on 25 March 1821.
Representing Premier Peter Malinauskas, Koutsantonis, who serves as Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Energy and Mining, and Leader of Government Business, emphasised the deep connection between Greece’s revolutionary spirit and the values upheld by Greek Australians.
“This is a celebration of the soul of the Greek people and their fierce love for freedom. The Greeks have preserved our faith, language, and identity with passion. We are the descendants of a heritage that refused to die,” he said.
Koutsantonis underscored how the “courage, resilience, and faith” that shaped modern Greece continue to thrive in” Greek-Australian homes today”.
The reception on 25 March was the culmination of commemorative events held across South Australia, honouring the sacrifices and triumphs of the Greek revolutionaries who fought against 400 years of Ottoman rule.
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