In an inspiring display of cultural philanthropy, the members of the “Apollon” Panrhodian Society of America have expressed their intention to fund the creation and installation of a statue of Dorieus in front of the Rhodes City Hall. This initiative, detailed in a letter to the Mayor of Rhodes, Alexandros Koliadis, underscores the society’s commitment to celebrating and preserving Hellenic heritage.

The letter, which also addresses the Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, the Metropolitans of Rhodes Kyrillos and of New Jersey Apostolos, the five members of parliament from the Dodecanese, the South Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos, and the Consul General of Greece in New York, Konstantinos Konstantinou, signifies a collaborative effort to enhance the cultural landscape of Rhodes. Accompanying the letter were preliminary sketches of the Dorieus statue, the result of extensive research and collaboration with universities, illustrating the depth of planning and dedication behind this gesture.

Dorieus, celebrated for his endeavors and valor, represents not just a historical figure but a symbol of the rich cultural and historical heritage of Greece. This gesture by the “Apollon” Panrhodian Society of America not only honors this heritage but also strengthens the cultural bonds between Greece and its diaspora. The statue’s placement in front of the City Hall will stand as a testament to Dorieus’s legacy and serve as a beacon of cultural pride for both residents and visitors to Rhodes.

The importance of diaspora communities for Greece

The initiative highlights the importance of diaspora communities in the preservation and promotion of Greek culture abroad. It also showcases the potential for collaborative projects that bridge geographical distances and unite individuals with shared heritage. The involvement of various dignitaries and officials in this project underscores its significance and the broad support for cultural and historical preservation efforts.

As this project progresses, it will undoubtedly become a focal point of interest in Rhodes, attracting attention to the city’s rich historical narrative and the enduring impact of Greek civilization. The statue of Dorieus will not only be a visual spectacle but also a source of inspiration, reminding onlookers of the profound contributions of the Greeks to the world and the timeless values they represent. This endeavor by the “Apollo” Parrodian Society of America sets a commendable example of cultural philanthropy, echoing the deep-rooted connections between Greece and its global community.

The letter to the Mayor of Rhodes mr Alexandros Koliadis

Dear Mayor and members of the Board of our Municipality of Rhodes:
With humility to our long-standing Greek cultural heritage, with appreciation, respect and patriotic love to all of you, we submit a proposal for the construction of a statue of the founder of the city of Rhodes, Dorias.
We know that in 1924 our parents and grandparents in the then enslaved Rhodes, with love for our Greek heritage, founded the historical Sports Club named “Dorieas”.

From that time until today is our immigration to America and the founding of the historic All-Rodian Club of America “Apollo” which is the umbrella of sections and members of Rhodian Clubs in America, Canada and Rhodes.
For the last five years, the Central Headquarters and members, Rhodian Organizations, have been studying and preparing for the submission of a proposal for the construction and placement in Rhodes of a bronze statue of the founder of our city, Dorieas.

From the University of the Aegean, Professors Syropoulos and Panagiotaki with other expert professors of Sculpture, Archaeology and Art from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, sculptors from Rhodes, Athens and the Peloponnese advised us and presented us with drafts for the statue of Dorieas.
After a long study and research, the Central Headquarters came up with the attached drafts which we respectfully submit to you with the request of the PSA “Apollo” to undertake the construction and installation of a statue of Dorias in cooperation with you. With the design you will choose for the construction, with the location you will decide.
Our recommendation and urge is that the statue of the founder of our city be placed in front of our City Hall.
We have received a number of drafts and proposals.

We enclose the best statue designs we have received for the founder of our city of Rhodes, Dorieas.
They are designed by the sculptor Konstantinos Palaeologos from Athens and his associate Nikolaos Sfikas from Thessaloniki, whose brief biographical notes we enclose.
We are aware that the drafts they present are the result of extensive study and with advice from other sculptors, historians, archaeologists and professors from Thessaloniki and Athens.
We are sure that Mr. Palaeologos and Mr. Sfikas will be happy and honoured to answer any of your questions.
We do not see the need especially to you to talk about who Dorieas is, about his life, achievements and services to Rhodes that make us feel that it is just to honor him with a statue in his city.
Briefly and following the historical record:

• He had an impressive body
• He had a handsome physique.
• He was an Olympic and Periodontal champion
• Chief of the Rhodes military forces
• Excellent diplomat
• Founder of the city of Rhodes in 408 BC.
  We hope that you will consider the proposal to build and place a statue of the founder of our city Dorias in Rhodes by the expatriate children of our beloved island.
  

With appreciation, respect and patriotic love to all of you for the Central Headquarters of MAA “Apollo”,

Elias Tomazos, president
Chrysostomos Michalakis, vice-president
Christina Kapolis, secretary
Vasilios Angelis, treasurer
The members-presidents of Sections and Rhodian Associations
Emmanuel Lergos, Hartford, Connecticut
Nikolaos Kartalis, New York
Kitsa Aivazis, Ohio
Chabika Pehiou, Cannon Spur, Pennsylvania
M. Kaffenes, Alikupa, Pennsylvania
Lynn Kakiu, Albuquerque, Pennsylvania
Nitza Manolas, New Jersey
Fotios Filippakis, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Tharrenos Kasekas, Toronto, Canada
Emmanuel Psaras, Gennadines
Eleni Karanikis, Sornonians
Kostas Manolukos, Malonites
Lazaros Kasekas, Rhodes, Greece
Christos Michalakis, Rhodian Scientists
Sophia Menoutis, Rhodes Students

What is “Apollon” Panrhodian Society of America ?

Organizations like the “Apollo” Panrhodian Society play a crucial role in maintaining the cultural connections between the diaspora and their homeland, through initiatives such as funding statues, supporting Greek education abroad, and organizing cultural events. These efforts not only help in preserving the rich history and traditions of Greece but also in fostering a sense of community and belonging among the diaspora members.

As their website mentions Apollo’s Parrodian Society of America mission is “

• Unite all individuals of Rhodian descent under one organization, regardless of gender or religion residing in the Americas, Europe, Australia, Africa, and Asia.
• To promote a greater connection within the vast Greek-American community and the Hellenic Diaspora.
• To encourage collaboration and to promote solidarity and brotherly relations among its members.
• To provide financial assistance towards educational, religious, philanthropic, athletic, cultural, and agricultural programs in all regions of the world where Rhodian Societies are established, as well as in Rhodes.
• To award scholarships to future generations of the Rhodian Diaspora attending accredited institutions of higher learning in the USA and globally.”

The role of Greek Diaspora

The Greek diaspora refers to the communities of Greek people living outside their traditional homelands in Greece and Cyprus. These communities are spread across the world, and they have a long history, often tracing their origins back to ancient times, but significantly expanding during and after the the Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922 and the World Wars where Greece was a very poor country. The Greek diaspora has played a crucial role in the spread and preservation of Greek culture, language, and Orthodox Christianity. Here’s an overview of Greek diaspora societies around the world:

1. United States
   The United States has one of the largest Greek communities outside Greece, with a significant presence in cities like New York, Chicago, and Boston. Greek-Americans have been influential in various sectors, including business, politics, and academia. They maintain their cultural heritage through numerous Greek Orthodox Churches, Greek schools, and community organizations like the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA).
2. Australia
   Australia is home to a substantial Greek population, primarily in Melbourne and Sydney. The Greek community in Australia is one of the largest in the world outside Greece, with its presence felt in cultural festivals, Greek-language media, and political life. The Antipodes Festival in Melbourne is one of the largest celebrations of Greek culture outside Greece.
3. Canada
   Canada’s Greek population is mainly concentrated in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Greek-Canadians actively preserve their cultural traditions through community centers, churches, and annual festivals like the Taste of the Danforth in Toronto.
4. United Kingdom
   The United Kingdom, particularly London, has a significant Greek-Cypriot population, along with smaller communities of Greeks from mainland Greece. These communities are centered around Greek Orthodox Churches and cultural organizations, contributing to the multicultural tapestry of the UK.
5. Germany
   Germany has seen an influx of Greek immigrants in several waves, especially during the economic crises in Greece. The Greek community in Germany is well-integrated, with cultural associations and educational institutions promoting Greek language and culture.
6. South Africa
   The Greek community in South Africa is one of the oldest in the country, primarily concentrated in Johannesburg and Cape Town. This community has played a significant role in the business sector, particularly in the food and hospitality industries.
7. Other Countries
   Greek communities can also be found in countries like France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, and more, each maintaining their cultural identity through various organizations and events.

Across the globe, the Greek diaspora has established a network of organizations that aim to promote Greek culture, language, and Orthodox Christianity. These communities often play a significant role in the social and economic life of their host countries, while also maintaining strong ties to Greece and Cyprus.