Melbourne Commemorates Asia Minor Women's Resilience
The Greek-Australian Cultural League (GACL) and the Thessaloniki Association 'The White Tower' recently hosted a poignant event in Melbourne. 'The Women of Asia Minor' commemorated the resilience of refugee mothers, daughters, and grandmothers following the 1922 catastrophe in Smyrna.
The event, held on National Remembrance Day of the Genocide of Asia Minor Greeks, honoured the strength and courage of these women. Speakers Eleni Zalocosta and Sophia Michaelidis underscored their fortitude and the cultural loss of Smyrna, urging attendees to remember their plight as a moral duty.
GACL president Cathy Alexopoulos, also serving as the league's secretary, referenced 'Echoes of Smyrna', a book featuring refugee descendants' testimonies. She stressed that these stories form the foundation of their collective identity. An 11-year-old attendee, Eleni, expressed her desire to keep these stories alive, demonstrating the event's impact on younger generations.
Greek consul Dimitra Georgantzoglou delivered the keynote speech, reflecting on her family's refugee roots. She paid tribute to women like Filio Haidemenou, who lived to 107 and became a symbol of cultural survival. The event included poetry, video tributes, and a moment of silence, providing a multifaceted tribute to the women of Asia Minor.
The commemoration in Melbourne served as a reminder of the resilience and cultural heritage of Asia Minor Greeks. Through stories, tributes, and the passion of speakers and attendees, the event ensured that the plight of these women is not forgotten. As Cathy Alexopoulos closed the event, she reminded the audience that 'Lest we forget' applies to their brave ancestors as well.
Read also:
- Andrew Stunell joins in celebrating equality with graduates from a pioneering mentorship program.
- Social Inequality and Class Oppression in the Train-Bound World of Snowpiercer
- Kamala Harris, the previously serving Vice President, announces her current politically-related choices- temporarily.
- U.S. Economic Trend: Insights on Stagflation and Potential Approach
