The Pontian Society Komninoi of New York is one of the Greek ethnic organizations in Astoria. This organization strives to preserve the rich Pontian Greek culture that was passed on from previous generations.1
About the Pontian Greeks
The Pontian Greeks lived in the region of Pontus in Greece. They also settled on the shores of the Black Sea and in the Pontic Mountains of northeastern Anatolia. They spoke a very distinct dialect of the Greek language, which is very highly valued culturally.2
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
The Pontian Greeks also engage in heavy song and dance. They are known for their “Acritic” songs which is basically heroic and epic poetry blended into music. Their most popular instrument is the bowed instrument which is called the “kemenche” or “lyra.” Other instruments they used included the “angion”, which was a a type of bag pipe, the “davul”, a type of drum and the “kaval”, a type of flute. The Pontian Greeks rejoiced in dance, particularly one called “Horoi”, where they would dance in circles, take short distinct steps and quickly shake their upper bodies to the beat. The first group of Pontian Greeks came to the U.S. after 1963, from Altiki and Macedonia.3
“Davul”: Ancient Greek drum. Image courtesy of Wikipedia
“Kaval”: Ancient Greek Pontian Flute. Image courtesy of Wikipedia
“Lyra”:Ancient Pontian Greek bowed instrument. Image courtesy of Wikipedia
The Pontian Society Komninoi of New York was formed on the idea that Pontian Greeks would have a place that felt like home to go to, whenever they missed their homeland. One of its main founders was Dr. George Efthimiades. The organization helped to raise $10,000 to assist the Pontian Greek victims after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974. They also helped to raise funds for the terminally ill. Frequently, the organization has cultural shows, focused on Pontian Greek song and dance, and host dinners in order to boost awareness of the Pontian Greek culture.4
Pontion Society Komninoi of N.Y. located at 31-25 23rd Ave, Astoria, N.Y. 11105. Image courtesy of Shahrin Azim
Federation of Hellenic Societies
Incorporated into the realm of non-profit organizations on August 12, 1938, the Federation of Hellenic Societies paved the way for a harmonious combination of Greek heritage and American life. One of their primary goals is to “…support the patriotic, philanthropic and humane pursuits of the American and Greek peoples, as well as the interests of the Societies which constitute the Federation each one accepted as a whole.”¹Meaning, the federation allows the Greeks in Astoria to live accordingly to their cultural and religious roots while still allotting room for them to embrace American ideals and standards.
A shield found in the federation building. Image courtesy of Izabela Konopko
They achieve this goal by having lectures and information sessions on elements of American society such as politics (the discussions range from voting to immigration laws). The Federation of Hellenic Societies is separated into several different committees that work together to promote a tied lineage to Greek heritage while simultaneously keeping up with American standards. Such committees include advisory, auditing, building career affairs, culture, parade, national issues, and public relations boards and sectors, all of which contribute to the Federation of Hellenic Societies’ mission. These specific committees hold large events to continuously advocate unity and support in the Greek community. The parade committee, until this day, continues its tradition of having the Greek Independence Day parade in which people across the city indulge in a taste of Greek life and culture.
A flyer for the Greek Independence Day Parade. Image courtesy of Izabela Konopko
In other words, the Federation of Hellenic Societies fuels the harmony of the Greek identity in Astoria in spite of possible pressure to conform to American ideals.
The Federation of Hellenic Societies building. Image courtesy of Izabela Konopko
Authors: Kavita Sawh and Anisha Lall
