Today, UMD, and Macedonians throughout the world, in and out of Macedonia, celebrate 119 years of Ilinden and 78 years of ASNOM.

The independent, sovereign, free Macedonia is an irreversible reality that the Macedonian diaspora around the world helped create.

This glorious day signifies defiance, the rebirth of the state, and the ascent of new freedom for all Macedonians worldwide. Although Macedonia has been an independent state for more than three decades, more than ever before in recent history, Macedonians feel enslaved in their own homeland.

Using the weak authorities and leaders in Macedonia, our ostensible allies who are attempting to tame, deface and erase our heritage are doing everything they can to eradicate Macedonia from world history and put a stop to the Macedonian roots for good.

Some of our European neighbors and friends have demonstrated via their acts that they do not recognize our existence, culture, or identity, nor do they support our survival.

However, our message today is that Macedonia will be reborn on this glorious day of Ilinden, despite being ignored and presumably erased.

May the day be joyful and the celebration of Ilinden and ASNOM continue in perpetuity.