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| THE MONTREAL GREEK TIMES GOPHER NEWS SERVICE |
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March 2026
Hellenic traditions and history formally recognized in Laval
(GIF) article photo
By Dimitri Papadopoulos
Under the bright lights of Laval’s council chamber, framed by the flags
of Canada, Laval and Quebec and before a gallery filled with leaders of
the Hellenic diaspora, a moment of civic recognition unfolded that
carried both symbolic and historical weight. In an atmosphere marked by
applause, pride and cross party support, the City of Laval formally
proclaimed March as Greek Heritage Month, affirming the enduring
presence of one of the city’s most dynamic communities and underscoring
themes of democratic legacy, cultural continuity and collective
identity. The motion, tabled by Chomedey Coun. Aglaia Revelakis, called
on the city to proclaim “the month of March as Greek Heritage Month in
the City of Laval and encourage all residents to participate in
activities and events celebrating the history, culture and Hellenic
contributions to our community”. The proposition, received on January 13
and signed by Revelakis , was adopted unanimously at the February 4
council meeting. Speaking at the podium, Revelakis addressed council in
French, her voice steady and deliberate as she reflected on more than a
century of Hellenic contribution in Quebec. “Today, I am proud to
present this proposition to proclaim the month of March as Greek
Heritage Month,” she said, describing it as “an important opportunity to
celebrate and highlight the rich history, culture and enduring
contributions of the Hellenic community”. She reminded councillors that
for over 120 years, individuals of Greek origin have played “a
significant role in the social, economic, cultural and civic development
of our society, guided by values such as resilience, family, education
and community engagement”. Her words echoed the formal language of the
written notice of proposition, which referenced the democratic
principles rooted in ancient Hellenic traditions and recognized March 25
as Greek Independence Day, commemorating the beginning of Greece’s
struggle for independence in 1821. The motion also noted that more than
30,000 Laval residents are of Greek origin and that the city is home to
two churches and two primary schools serving the community. The chamber
itself reflected this civic and cultural convergence. In one image
captured during the meeting, councillors sat in a semicircle beneath
studio lights, as Revelakis presented her remarks. In another, community
leaders gathered for a commemorative photograph, standing shoulder to
shoulder in front of the council dais. Among those present were Sotirios
Antipas, president of the Hellenic Congress of Quebec; Justine Fragouli-
Argyris, president of the Lyceum of Greek Women and head of the Hellenic
Community of Greater Montreal’s 120 year anniversary committee; Katerina
Hullis, regional president for Montreal Laval; Zissis Fotopoulos,
president of the Pan Arcadian Brotherhood of Canada; and Costas
Milonopoulos, past president of the former Greek Orthodox Community of
Laval. Their presence underscored the institutional depth and continuity
of Hellenism in the region. Coun. Aline Dib, representing Mayor Stéphane
Boyer, rose in support of the motion and saluted the community’s
sustained engagement in Laval’s civic life. She highlighted the city’s
participation in Greek Independence Day commemorations and the wreath
laying ceremonies held annually in Laval, as well as the vibrant
festivals that animate neighbourhoods across Chomedey. “The Laval
community of Greek origin contributes significantly to the development
of the city,” she said, adding that its involvement, both economic and
community based, actively strengthens social cohesion and quality of
life. Opposition councillors also voiced their support. David De Cotis
of Action Laval noted that Laval is home to one of the largest Hellenic
communities in Quebec and that recognizing its contribution is both
natural and warranted. Louise Lortie of Parti Laval acknowledged the
community’s integration and longstanding presence, expressing
appreciation for what Greek Quebecers and Greek Canadians have brought
to the city’s social and cultural fabric. For Revelakis, the
proclamation carried a personal dimension rooted in her own family’s
story. In her closing remarks, she spoke of her pride as a Greek
Canadian and Quebecer who began her life in Laval in 1980, and she
referenced the upcoming 50th anniversary of Saint Nicholas Greek
Orthodox Church in Laval. Her words resonated with many in the audience
who have witnessed the transformation of Laval from a growing suburb to
a major urban centre shaped in part by immigrant enterprise, cultural
associations and parish life. The written proposition further situated
the local motion within a national framework, citing federal Bill S-220,
which seeks to recognize March as Hellenic Heritage Month across Canada.
By aligning Laval with this broader legislative initiative, council
affirmed that the city’s recognition forms part of a wider Canadian
acknowledgment of Hellenic heritage. As the debate concluded, the
council chair confirmed that there were no further requests to speak.
The motion was put to a vote and adopted unanimously, with
congratulations extended to Revelakis and the Greek community of Laval.
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