$ USD
General News
Meropi Kyriacou Honored as TNH Educator of the Year
NEW YORK – Meropi Kyriacou, the new Principal of The Cathedral School in Manhattan, was honored as The National Herald’s Educator of the Year.
Greece recently endured one of the worst fires in recent years, a fire that left a woman dead, destroyed many homes, and burned vast areas of land. It was so dangerous that it even threatened Athens.
This tragic news was covered by major media outlets, including the New York Times, CNN, and others. Of course, The National Herald extensively covered the event both in its print editions and on its websites.
So, no one can say they didn’t know…
There was a time when the leadership of the Greek-American community—fill in the names yourself—would immediately mobilize to express solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Greece. This included both moral and material solidarity. In a tragedy, no amount is insignificant.
In this case, however, the “honor of the arms” is somewhat saved by “AHEPA and the Daughters of Penelope of the chapters in Greece and Europe,” according to the statement they issued. So, if I read it correctly, this does not include AHEPA in the U.S.
The statement, among other things, says:
“…AHEPA and DOP chapters in Greece and Europe have swiftly coordinated relief efforts, working in close collaboration with local authorities and volunteer organizations to provide essential support to those affected. Our members on the ground are dedicating their resources and time to assist in evacuation efforts, deliver supplies, and offer shelter to displaced families. The sorrow we all feel is only surpassed by our dedication to the philanthropic mission of the AHEPA Family: to help those in times of greatest need. We are fully behind our chapters in Greece and Europe as they work tirelessly to aid their communities during this critical time.”
In any case, it’s something. Of course, it would be better if the moral support was accompanied by a donation—not, of course, just… a $10,000 gift as was awarded Cyprus.
What happened to our other associations, both regional and professional? Why are they absent?
Where is the Archdiocese?
As is well known, its attention is focused elsewhere.
But with this response, beyond the damage from the fire, there is also damage to the relationship between the Greek-American community and Greece. Because it’s moments like these that matter.
However, it’s not too late to do something even now. It’s never too late.
