The 84th anniversary of OXI (“NO”) Day was marked with a commemoration in South Australia on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at the Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel on Franklin Street, Adelaide.
Organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA), this event honoured one of the most significant holidays in the modern Greek calendar — when, on October 28, 1940, then-Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas defiantly rejected Benito Mussolini’s ultimatum demanding access for Italian forces to occupy Greek territory. This resistance marked by the response “OXI” (No) sparked Greece’s entry into World War II alongside the Allied forces.
The GOCSA event began with a doxology service, bringing together dignitaries, community leaders, and families to pay tribute to the heroes of World War II. Following the doxology, attendees gathered outside for the wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of the fallen.
Vice-President of GOCSA, Peter Gonis, began proceedings by explaining that the “courageous declaration [of OXI] ignited a fierce resistance against the invading forces, ultimately leading to Greece’s victory. It is a day of profound significance… that symbolises resilience, courage, the unwavering spirit of a nation as well as the ties that connect our two countries together in their quest for freedom and democracy.”
GOCSA President Peter Gardiakos expanded on Mr Gonis’ comments by emphasising that “…OXI day holds a special place in our hearts, as a symbol of courage, resilience and unwavering commitment for freedom. It is a day that reminds us of all the sacrifices made by our ancestors and the price they were willing to pay to defend our beloved homeland, Greece.”
Mr Gardiakos also conveyed a message that was provided by the Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas, co-signed by the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Zoe Bettison MP.
Both the Premier and the Minister sent their “best wishes to the community” and stated that: “on this special occasion, we honour courageous Greek and Cypriot men and women in the early 1940’s, who stood together against a formidable enemy and changed the course of history.”
“OXI day is a reminder of what can be achieved when a community stands up for their shared values… these were the very same freedoms and values that Australian soldiers fought for and alongside Greek and Cypriots soldiers in the second world war. This day is a reminder of our long-standing relationship with Greece and Cyprus and allows us to acknowledge the strengthening of our State through the contribution of Greek and Cypriot migration…” the message added.
Wreaths adorned with blue and white ribbons were laid in honour of the Greek soldiers, the brave ANZAC’s who stood side by side with the Greeks, and all the civilians whose bravery shaped the outcome of the war.
Wreaths were laid by dignitaries including Mr Matthew Marozzi, representing the Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia and the Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs; Trian Gonis, representing Steve Georganas MP, Federal Member for Adelaide; The Right Honourable Dr Jane Lomax Smith, Lord Mayor of the City of Adelaide; the Mayor of West Torrens, Michael Coxen; Able Seaman Irene Charalampakis of the Royal Australian Navy; Councillor Stephen Finos of the City of Unley; and Councillor Peter Ppiros of the City of Charles Sturt. Wreaths were also laid by the Cyprus Community of SA, the Greek Womens Society of SA Taxiarchis, the Pan-Arcadian Association of SA, amongst other community organisations.
A major feature of the commemoration was the active participation of students from GOCSA’s Greek language schools. These young participants, some dressed in traditional Greek costumes, recited patriotic poems and sang a song that celebrated the spirit of resistance and national pride.
Their performances reflected the enduring legacy of OXI Day and demonstrated how the GOCSA is ensuring, through their Greek language programs, that younger generations remain connected to their Greek heritage.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Peter Tantalos.
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