The national anniversary of October 28th provides an opportunity for young students to learn about the events of 1940, when Greece resisted Italian demands and entered World War II.
In schools across the country, preparations for the celebration and student parades are in their final stages. Teachers and kindergarten educators use images, commemorative videos and creative activities to help children understand the deeper message of the day.
What we celebrate on October 28th
The anniversary offers an opportunity to talk to children about peace, freedom and the struggle of the Greek people. As educators explain, October 28th “is a day of honor and pride for our people, with the historic ‘NO’ revealing the strength of the Greek spirit.”
With varied materials – print, digital and archival – educators help students understand the patriotism and courage of those who fought, as well as the importance of the peace we enjoy today.
Who were the heroes of October 28, 1940
The “NO” anniversary commemorates Greece’s refusal to accept Italy’s ultimatum, delivered by ambassador Emanuele Grazzi to Ioannis Metaxas in the early hours of October 28, 1940.
Metaxas’ response “Alors, c’est la guerre” (Well, this means war) marked the beginning of the Greek-Italian War.
Since then, the day has been established as a national holiday and public holiday in Greece and Cyprus, a symbol of courage and unity.
Educational videos and creative tools
In recent years, educators have used animated cartoons, narratives and songs to convey the historical events of 1940 to children in a creative and accessible way.
Through images and sound, children learn who were the heroes of the 1940 epic, what the “NO” means and why we celebrate freedom and peace every year with flags and parades.
Why we hold parades on October 28th
The so-called “Epic of Forty,” which followed, and the great victories that the Greek army achieved against the Italians, became established as an annual celebration on October 28th, the day of Italy’s ultimatum and Ioannis Metaxas’ refusal to consent. The parade is the honor that the new generation pays to the Greek heroes who fought and gave their lives for their homeland. An act of honor, but also recognition of their sacrifice.
