Greek Language Day Celebrated at New York Consulate

Interactive event highlights Greek language's global impact and importance for Greek-American youth

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Consulate General of Greece in New York hosted a celebration of International Greek Language Day, featuring a video message from the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, remarks from Greek and Cypriot officials, and an interactive 'Greek Language Treasure Hunt' for students from several Greek-American day schools in the New York area.

Why it matters

The event underscored the enduring cultural significance of the Greek language, which has shaped global civilization for millennia, and its vital role in preserving the identity and heritage of young Greek-Americans through education.

The details

The celebration included a video message from the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ioannis Loverdos, who spoke about the global resonance of the Greek language and the UNESCO resolution designating February 9th as International Greek Language Day. The Consul General of Greece in New York, Ms. Ifigenia Kanara, and the Director of the Department of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Fr. Gregory Stamkopoulos, also delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of Greek language instruction for preserving cultural identity. The highlight of the event was an interactive 'Greek Language Treasure Hunt' where students from several Greek-American day schools competed in creative challenges and knowledge-based activities to showcase the living, dynamic nature of the Greek language.

  • The event was held on February 10, 2026 to mark International Greek Language Day.
  • The UNESCO resolution designating February 9th as International Greek Language Day was mentioned during the event.

The players

Ioannis Loverdos

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs who delivered a video message for the event.

Ifigenia Kanara

Consul General of Greece in New York who gave welcoming remarks.

Gregory Stamkopoulos

Director of the Department of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America who conveyed the blessings of Archbishop Elpidophoros.

Kyriakos Pogiatzis

Consul of the Republic of Cyprus in New York who addressed the audience.

Athanasios Papathanasis

Member of the Hellenic Parliament and the Special Permanent Committee on Greeks Abroad who attended the event.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.