Join us for EMBCA’s Annual OXI Day Commemoration this one entitled “OXI ! : Hellas’s Defiance That Changed the Course of World War II” Webinar Panel Discussion on Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 2 PM EDT/ 8 PM Athens EEST. The discussion will be introduced and moderated by Lou Katsos, President of of the East Mediterranean Business Culture Alliance (EMBCA). Our distinguished panel is currently in formation.

On October 28, 1940, Hellenic Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas, awakened before dawn by Italian Ambassador Emanuele Grazzi, rejected Benito Mussolini’s ultimatum demanding that neutral Hellas (Greece) permit Axis forces to occupy strategic locations throughout the country. His response—“Alors, c’est la guerre!” (“Then it is war!”)—and the Hellenic people’s resounding cry of “OXI!” (“NO!”) became one of the defining moments of the Second World War and a timeless declaration of freedom, sovereignty, and national dignity.

Against overwhelming odds, Hellenic forces halted the Italian invasion launched from occupied Albania, counterattacked, and advanced deep into Albanian territory, inflicting the first military defeat of an Axis power in Europe. Hellas’s extraordinary resistance inspired occupied nations, shattered the myth of Axis invincibility, and compelled Hitler to divert German forces to the Balkans before launching Operation Barbarossa. While historians continue to debate the extent of the resulting delay, there is broad agreement that Hellas’s stand significantly influenced the strategic course of the war and helped alter the trajectory of the conflict.

The panel will examine the events leading to OXI Day, including Italy’s occupation of Albania, the torpedoing of the cruiser Elli on August 15, 1940, the Greco-Italian War, the German invasion, the Battle of Crete, the occupation of Hellas, and the Hellenic Resistance. It will also explore the immense sacrifices endured by the Hellenic people and the profound legacy these events left on modern Hellenic history and the wider world.

Beyond the battlefield, the discussion will consider how Hellas’s courage transformed international perceptions of Hellenes abroad. In the United States, the heroism and sacrifice of the Hellenic people helped accelerate the acceptance of Hellenic Americans as an integral part of American society while strengthening the enduring friendship between the United States and Hellas.

The panel will also explore OXI Day’s continuing relevance in the twenty first century. More than a national holiday, it remains a universal symbol of courage, resilience, and the determination of free people to resist tyranny, defend democracy, and preserve their independence. Its message continues to resonate wherever freedom is threatened and reminds us that the actions of one nation, regardless of its size, can change the course of history.

As America commemorates the 250th Anniversary of its founding throughout 2026, this year’s EMBCA OXI Day program offers a timely opportunity to reflect upon the enduring ideals shared by Hellas and the United States—liberty, democracy, self-determination, and the courage to stand against tyranny. Born in ancient Hellas, reaffirmed in the American Revolution, and defended once again by the Hellenic people in 1940, these timeless principles continue to unite our two nations and inspire free people throughout the world.

Join EMBCA as we commemorate one of the pivotal moments of World War II and reflect upon the enduring legacy of October 28, 1940, for Hellas, America, Europe, and the free world.

EMBCA is an organization exempt from Federal Income Tax under Internal Revenue (IRC) Section 501(c)(3), classified as a public charity, and qualifies to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Section 2055, 2106, or 2522 . Donors can deduct contributions they make under IRC Section 170. Thank you all again for your continuing enthusiasm and support of our events !!