Dear Editor,

In the National Herald issue of August 14th there was an article by Professor of Political Economy at Broomfield College in New Jersey, Mr. Lazaros Michaelides. The article seems a bit challenging for the less educated and a bit too difficult for the general public to understand. I congratulate Professor Michaelides for achieving the position of a professor at an American college. It is an honor and matter of pride for all Greeks that some of us manage to climb the highest rungs of American education.

However, being a professor does not imply that everyone should agree with him, especially regarding political positions or even certain publications, such as the article by Professor Michaelides that he mentioned. I understand that he is bothered by the fact that a law was passed by the Greek Parliament facilitating voting for Greeks abroad without obstacles or restrictions, receiving 208 votes.

From what I gather, Professor Michaelides argues that this is a mistake and makes numerous points to support his view. He even invokes the name of Mr. Antonis Diamataris, suggesting that when he was Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, he proposed this law, which is now approved by the Greek Parliament. Professor Michaelides seems out of touch with the nearly unanimous desire of all Greeks living abroad to be able to vote in elections, just like Greeks residing in Greece. He does list various ‘ifs’ that are not very substantial and it’s not clear to me, at least, if his views are partisan or political. He writes that a careful study by experts is needed on these matters while provocatively ignoring the intense debate that took place in the Greek Parliament for three days before the monumental decision of the 208 MPs. Nevertheless, you did well to write this letter, dear Professor, as we got to know you. I would like to say that we congratulate you for what you are, but we do not agree with what you believe.

Thank you,

Dimitrios Georgopoulos

Queens, NY