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.
