State Rep. Lynn Afendoulis, of Grand Rapids Township, sponsored House Resolution 47 of 2019, declaring March 25, 2019 Greek Independence Day in the state of Michigan.

Greek Independence Day celebrates Greece’s successful war of independence against the Ottoman Empire between 1821 and 1830. The resolution notes the concept of democracy being developed by the ancient Greeks and that the Founding Fathers of our country were influenced by the political and philosophical principles of ancient Greece.

Furthermore, it explains how Greece and the U.S. have long been allies and quotes Winston Churchill, who said, “If there had not been the virtue and courage of the Greeks, we do not know which the outcome of World War II would have been” and “No longer will we say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks.”

“These are among the many reasons I’m proud of my heritage, and proud of contributions of the Greek-American community to our state and this nation,” Afendoulis said.

The resolution was adopted Wednesday, March 20 by the Michigan House of Representatives. Complete language can be viewed on the Michigan Legislature’s website at www.legislature.mi.gov.

Rep. Afendoulis serves the people of Michigan’s 73^rd House District, which includes City of East Grand Rapids and the townships of Grand Rapids, Cannon, Courtland, Nelson, Oakfield, Plainfield, and Spencer.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Lynn Afendoulis delivers a speech on the House floor Thursday regarding her resolution to declare March 25, 2019 Greek Independence Day in the state of Michigan.