The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) hosted a commemorative event for ‘OHI Day’ (No Day), marking the 83rd anniversary of Greece’s refusal to bow to fascism.
Nearly 200 attendees gathered at the Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel in Adelaide to honour this historical moment.
The event began with a solemn doxology during the church service, setting a reflective tone for the day.
It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to the heroes of Greece’s past. Students from GOCSA’s Greek Language Schools recited poignant poems that resonated with the crowd.
GOCSA’s General Secretary, Smaro Skordas, highlighted the importance of the Greek National Day, underlining that the historic response ‘Oxi’ unites and fortifies their commitment to freedom, a value of utmost significance to all Greeks.
Addressing the assembly, GOCSA President Peter Gardiakos paid tribute to the bravery of their ancestors during challenging times.
He highlighted the “indomitable spirit of the Greek people”, their sacrifices, determination, and unity, which have left an indelible mark on Greece’s history.
“OXI Day is not merely a day of remembrance. It’s a day of reflection. It calls upon us all to contemplate the values upheld by our forebears and how we can apply them to our modern lives,” Mr Gardiakos stated.
“The courage to say ‘No’ in the face of oppression is a lesson that transcends generations. It teaches us that we must stand up for our beliefs, even in the most trying of circumstances.”
As they commemorated ‘OHI Day,’ Mr Gardiakos urged everyone to recall the values of freedom, democracy, and the sacrifices made by those who came before them and stressed the need to protect and uphold these values.
The event drew the participation of members, community representatives, and distinguished guests, including Chief Justice of SA, Chris Kourakis; Arts Minister Andrea Michaels, representing SA Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Zoe Bettison; David Pisoni MP, Member for Unley; SA Best MLC Frank Pangallo; Adelaide Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith; Michael Coxon – Mayor of West Torrens & Cr. George Demetriou; City Of Charles Sturt Cr. Peter Ppiros, representing Mayor Angela Evans.
The commemoration concluded with students from the Community’s Greek Language Schools reciting heartfelt poems and the renditions of both the Australian and Greek National Anthems, reminding everyone of the enduring significance of the day.
