THE PATRAS FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION “KOSTIS PALAMAS” IGNITED THE HEARTS OF THE GREEK DIASPORA IN NEW YORK WITH THE SPEECH OF PRESIDENT PROFESSOR THEODOROS MALLIAS AND THE EXHIBITION OF ARTISTS FROM PATRAS

A significant and timely event was held as part of the celebrations of the Greek War of Independence of 1821, dedicated to the sacred struggle and the contribution of the poet Kostis Palamas to the spiritual revival of the Greek nation and the Olympic ideals. The event took place in the heart of Hellenism, at the Stathakion Cultural Center in Astoria, New York, on Friday, March 28th, at 7:00 PM.

The event was organized by the Patras Association of New York “Kostis Palamas,” with the support of the Confederation of Greek-Americans of New York. The keynote speaker was Professor Theodoros Mallias, who traveled to the United States for the official presentation of his speech, with its first delivery in New Jersey, as a guest of the distinguished physician Dr. George Dendrinos.

Professor Mallias’s presentation was substantial and educational, enriched with slides, narratives, and photographic material.
The hall was filled to capacity, with the presence of the Regional Governor of Western Greece, the Ambassador and Consul, as well as many prominent figures of the Greek-American community. The audience had the opportunity to learn about the life and Olympic legacy of Kostis Palamas, acknowledging his significant contribution to Greek culture and national identity.

The event was especially timely, as Hellenism around the world celebrates the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence. Honoring the heroes and spiritual leaders of our nation remains a vital part of preserving our historical memory and national heritage.

Professor Mallias continues his tour in the United States, with upcoming stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Montreal, Canada, where he will present the work of Kostis Palamas and his message of peace and excellence—values highlighted in the poet’s Olympic Hymn.

He even made a universal appeal to the United States and the International Olympic Committee ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games to implement the Olympic Truce among the participating nations during the games.

A significant culmination of his research is the luxurious publication of a commemorative album on Olympism, which thoroughly documents the life, work, and contribution of our National Poet to the Olympic spirit and its development. The album was presented by University Professor Nikolaos Alexiou.

The exhibition of artists from Patras greatly impressed art lovers and the public alike. It was curated with particular care by Georgia Yachou, artist and President of the “Gallery Odeion” at the Kostis Palamas Center for Culture and Olympism.

The event concluded with a ceremonial presentation of the album on Olympism to the evening’s honoree, Pyrros Dimas, multi-Olympic champion and model of Olympic ethics. The program ended with a musical performance by artists and choir, and a rendition of the Olympic Hymn.

The event in New York was a tribute to Greek language and historical continuity, enhancing the love of learning and national pride among our diaspora.

A heartfelt congratulations to the Hellenic community of New York and the Patras Association of New York “Kostis Palamas”.