Every 28 October, Greece, Cyprus, and Greek communities across the world stand united in celebration of Ohi Day – the day a small nation dared to say “No” to tyranny and changed the course of history.
In the quiet early hours of 1940, Italian ambassador Emanuele Grazzi arrived at the Athens home of Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas. He brought with him an ultimatum from Benito Mussolini: allow Axis forces to occupy Greece, or face war. Metaxas, a man known for his reserve, replied not with anger, but with unshakable resolve – “Alors, c’est la guerre!” (“Then it is war!”). That single phrase would echo through the ages as Greece’s immortal “Ohi!”
At dawn, Italian troops invaded from Albania. Yet rather than surrender, Greece fought back – and won. Against all odds, in the mountains of Pindus, farmers, students, and soldiers together repelled one of the most powerful armies in Europe. It was the first victory against the Axis, inspiring hope across a continent shrouded in fear.
As the news spread, Greeks poured into the streets shouting “Ohi!” – not in defiance of Metaxas, but in unity with him. The word became more than a refusal; it became a promise. A promise that Greece would never yield, no matter the cost.
Even during the harsh years of occupation that followed, Ohi remained the heartbeat of resistance. It was painted on walls, whispered in safe houses, shouted from mountain hideouts. It was courage condensed into a single syllable.
Today, Ohi Day is marked in Greece with parades, flags, and remembrance and- above all- with pride. It reminds the world that freedom sometimes begins not with a grand speech, but with one quiet man saying “no.”
Also read: Cyprus celebrates Independence Day on 1 October
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