Inaugural Event of the Youth Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles
On Monday, December 4, 2023, the Youth Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles officially launched its movement with a remarkable inaugural event at the Athens City Museum, proudly supported by the Melina Mercouri Foundation and the Athens City Museum. The event attracted a full house of passionate advocates, all united by a shared mission: to bring the Parthenon Marbles back to Greece.
A Night of Powerful Voices and Meaningful Dialogue
The evening commenced with opening remarks by Mr. Antonios Vogiatzis, President of the Museum of the City of Athens, who traced the museum’s history, followed by Mr. Georgios Georgountzos, Vice President of the Museum, who highlighted the symbolic connection between the venue and the Marbles' rightful return.
The President of the Youth Committee, Thanos Georgountzos, took the stage to outline the vision and objectives of the Committee, emphasizing the critical role of young people in advocating for the Marbles' reunification and urging Great Britain and the British Museum to take action.
A special video message from Carolyn B. Maloney, f. US Congresswoman and Honorary Chair of the Youth Committee, underscored the international momentum behind the movement, reinforcing her unwavering commitment to the cause.
Keynote Addresses: Legal, Historical & Cultural Perspectives
Two distinguished speakers provided insightful analyses on the issue:
Irini Stamatoudi, Professor, Faculty of Law at the University of Nicosia presented the legal arguments for the reunification of the Parthenon Marbles.
Elena Korka, Hellenic Ministry of Culture & Sports, Directorate General of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage, Emerita, unveiled new historical evidence on Lord Elgin’s removal of the sculptures.
Adding to the emotional depth of the evening, Mr. Christoforos Argyropoulos, President of the Melina Mercouri Foundation, paid tribute to Melina Mercouri’s enduring legacy and her tireless efforts to reclaim Greece’s cultural heritage.
An Evening of Art & Culture
The event’s thought-provoking discussion, expertly moderated by Ioanna Pasia, Vice President of the Youth Committee and Law School graduate, explored the movement’s challenges and strategies for success.
Cultural performances enriched the evening, with:
Ms. Despina Polykandritou performing the legendary song "Omorfi Polis."
Ms. Elsie Dimoula, Deputy Mayor of Culture for the Municipality of Filothei-Psychiko, reciting her mother, Kiki Dimoula’s, moving poem: "British Museum – Elgin’s Marbles."
The event was hosted by Chrisa Roma, Vice President of the Youth Committee and Actress, while Theodore Ireiotis, Vice President and S&P Broker, delivered the event’s introductory speech.
A Movement Led by the Next Generation
The Youth Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles was founded with a bold and unwavering mission: to put young voices at the forefront of the global campaign for the Marbles’ return.
This inaugural event was more than just a gathering; it was a defining moment in the movement for cultural justice, marking the beginning of a new era of youth-driven advocacy.
