While a good portion of this country is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in March, people in Greece, the United States and around the world are celebrating Greek Independence Day on March 25. This date marks the start of the War for Greek Independence in 1821. Until that time, Greece had been part of the Ottoman Empire for some 400 years. The revolt almost failed until other European forces including Great Britain, France and Russia intervened in the conflict. The revolution ended in 1829 when the Treaty of Edirne established an independent Greek state.
Much of Greece’s modern culture, though it is a secular state, is tied to the culture’s religious life as over 90% of the population in Greece identifies as Greek Orthodox. In the U.S. and around the world, it is estimated that over 80% of those of Greek origin practice this faith. In fact, Greek Independence Day coincides with the Greek Orthodox Church’s celebration of the Annunciation of the Theotokos when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her that she would bear the son of God.
Greek Independence Day is, of course, celebrated as a national holiday in Greece. It is marked by parades in which school children wear traditional Greek costumes and carry the Greek flag. Celebrations may also include patriotic speeches and military demonstrations. The largest parade takes place in Athens and the sitting president of Greece is usually present. Here, in the U.S., many cities also have parades in honor of the holiday.
The traditional meal that is served on this day is Bakaliaros Skordalia which basically consists of batter fried cod, mashed potato, garlic and olive oil dip. The holiday falls in the middle of the Greek Orthodox Lenten period leading into Easter and so meat dishes are not served. But because the celebration coincides with the Annunciation, a joyous day, the consumption of fish, oil and wine are permitted.
What is most significant about the holiday is that it is a celebration of the end of oppression and a reminder of the constant struggle for freedom.
Patricia W. Holden is a partner in the firm’s Mt. Laurel office.