Edon Alibegu - Closing Speech | Independence Day of Montenegro | New York City Council | Historic

Independence Day of Montenegro Trailer | New York City Council
Celebrating Unity and Independence at NYC Hall!
The Albanian-American Association of Ulqin was proud to stand alongside the New York City Council, to host the 1st Annual Montenegro Independence Celebration at New York City Hall. Led and organized by our Executive Director Edon Alibegu.
Special thanks go to City Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks, a true champion for the city of New York and our number one advocate, whose leadership and dedication laid the groundwork for this event to take place and co-hosting! We also extend our gratitude to City Councilmembers David Carr, Kristin Marmorato, and Shahana Hanif for their support. This celebration wouldn’t have been possible without their efforts.
A Special Congratulations for the President of the Albanian-American Association of Ulqin, Xhemo Lanica - for receiving a Proclamation from the CIty of New York recognizing him as Honorary Citizen of the City - The Youngest Albanian to achieve such a title for his tireless work as President of our association and leading humanitarian initiatives and advocacy for Albanians in NYC, Montenegro, and the Balkans!
On May 21, 2006, Montenegro declared its independence through a referendum, regaining its freedom after 90 years. On that historic day, Albanians, Bosniak Muslims, Montenegrins, and other minorities from New York City answered the call of their ancestral lands. They traveled back home to vote for Montenegro’s independence, helping achieve the 55% needed for secession.
Why did we do this? After enduring past oppressions and fleeing our indigenous lands, we found a home in New York City. We believed in freedom and saw an opportunity to shape a nation where our voices and identities could be heard and respected. Empowered by American ideals and in honor of our ancestors, we played a crucial role in Montenegro’s journey to becoming a free nation dedicated to all, regardless of race or religion.
Albanians will no longer be victims of the past, or of circumstance. That we promise you.