With the first light of April 1, the bells will ring, the Greek and Cypriot flags will be raised, and Cyprus will don its blue and white. It will celebrate—as it has for 70 years—honoring those who, with courage and sacrifice, wrote its history.
I have been living in Greece since I was 18. For thirty years, I always felt an emptiness. In schools, April 1, 1955, did not exist; it was unheard of. Sometimes, with the principal’s permission and through my children during their school years, we would read a few words about that day.
Today, 70 years later, I read a piece of news that moves me:
“Greek Minister of Education, Sofia Zacharakis, has decided that April 1, 1955, will be commemorated in the schools of Greece, recognizing the historical significance of that day for Cypriot Hellenism.”
I won’t wonder whether it is too late or not. What matters is that this day will henceforth be honored as it deserves.
A Few Words About the Struggle:
At the break of dawn on April 1, 1955, precisely at midnight, a struggle began that would go down in history. The fighters of EOKA (National Organization of Cypriot Fighters) embarked on a battle that was not only fought with arms but also with the soul.
For centuries, Cyprus has had unbreakable bonds with Greece. In 1950, 96% of the Cypriot people voted in favor of union with Greece in a referendum. However, their voice was not heard. Thus, in 1955, they decided to claim their freedom by the only means available to them.
It was a difficult struggle, filled with sacrifices. It lasted four years, and in 1960, Cyprus became an independent state.
Cyprus’s geographical location has always made it a target for conquerors. From 1191 AD until 1960, it passed through the hands of the English, the Franks, the Venetians, and the Ottomans. And yet, the Cypriot people never lost their language, their faith, or their identity.
Since 1878, the Cypriots had peacefully sought union with Greece, but the British refused. In 1955, however, there was no other path. Those who joined the struggle knew well that freedom came at a price. And they paid it, so that we may remember today.
Today, 70 years later, we honor those who sacrificed for our homeland. We remember their struggle so that it may never fade from the memory of future generations.
Next year, free Cyprus—longed-for, sea-loving Cyprus!
P.S.
Image: processed artistic excerpt – Paskevision
