Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew inaugurated the conference titled “The 60th Anniversary of the Expulsion of 1964 and the Greeks of Constantinople,” organized by the Hrant Dink Foundation and Istos Publications on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. The event paid tribute to the late Greek-American historian and diplomat Alexis Alexandris.
In his speech, the Patriarch referred to the 1964 expulsions as a wound that has yet to heal, highlighting the forced removal of thousands of ethnic Greeks who were deprived of their rights and means of living. Many individuals, despite being natives of Constantinople, were expelled simply because of their Greek heritage. This tragic episode caused immense pain within the Hellenic community, leading to a significant decrease in its population and affecting the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The expulsion of hierarchs and the closure of diaspora schools were among the devastating consequences of this event.
Patriarch Bartholomew also spoke about the deep sense of longing experienced by those who were compelled to leave their homeland and the enduring affection for Constantinople among those who stayed. He reaffirmed the Patriarchate’s unwavering commitment to dialogue and reconciliation, expressing gratitude to the organizers, particularly İlay Romain Örs and Panteleimon Vigas.
The Patriarch acknowledged journalist and author Rıdvan Akar for shedding light on the 1964 expulsions through his book “20 Dollars, 20 Kilos,” and commended Nikos Ouzounoglou, President of the Ecumenical Federation of Constantinopolitans, for his advocacy on behalf of the deportees. He also expressed satisfaction that the conference was dedicated to Alexis Alexandris, who extensively studied the deportations in his academic work.
Concluding his address, Patriarch Bartholomew drew parallels between the 1964 expulsions and current conflicts in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East, where numerous individuals have been forced into exile. He lamented the fact that, despite the passage of time, the world has not changed significantly, emphasizing the ongoing struggles faced by refugees.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
