April 6 Officially Declared Thracian Hellenism Day in Greece

A historic decree issued on January 14 has officially designated April 6 as Thracian Hellenism Day in Greece, a momentous occasion for Thracian Greek communities across the country.

This new commemoration follows a law passed by the Interior Ministry in July 2022, marking a significant step in recognising the cultural and historical contributions of the Thracian Greek population.

This year will see the first official observance of the day, with a series of events organised to honour the memory of the Thracian Greeks who were either killed or forced to flee their homeland. Invitations have been extended to representatives from Thracian organisations and associations to participate in the commemoration.

Aristeidis Chrysopoulos, president of the Panhellenic Federation of Thracian Societies, expressed the significance of the occasion, stating, “Though remembrance events have been held, this is now an official memorial honouring our ancestors who were slaughtered or displaced from their homes.”

Beyond marking the tragedy of the Thracian Greeks, Chrysopoulos underscored a broader aim for recognition of the genocide against all Greeks of Asia Minor, including the Pontians and other groups affected. The official day of remembrance seeks not only to honor the victims of the past but also to ensure their history and suffering are acknowledged on a global scale.