UMD Statement on the Passing of a Dear Friend and Supporter of Macedonia, Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr.

The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD), representing the voice of our nation’s half a million Americans of Macedonian heritage, is deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. of New Jersey, a cherished friend and unwavering supporter of Macedonia, who he visited in 1999. As a founding member of the Congressional Macedonian Caucus, Congressman Pascrell played an instrumental role in championing the Macedonian human rights cause within the U.S. Congress.

He passed away on August 21, 2024, at 87.

A message from Congressman Pascrell’s family shared on his X account reads: “It is with deep sadness that we announce that Bill Pascrell Jr., our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away this morning. As our United States Representative, Bill fought to his last breath to return to the job he cherished and to the people he loved. Bill lived his entire life in Paterson and had an unwavering love for the city he grew up in and served. He is now at peace after a lifetime devoted to our great nation America.”

Throughout his distinguished career, Congressman Pascrell was a steadfast advocate for the Macedonian-American community. He was an instrumental founding member of the Congressional Caucus on Macedonia and Macedonian-Americans in 2011, tirelessly working to ensure that the voices of Macedonian-Americans were heard in Congress. He consistently advocated for the interests of his Macedonian constituents in New Jersey, reflecting his deep commitment to the community.

In October 2007, Congressman Pascrell took a courageous stand against H. Res. 356, which sought to address issues related to Macedonia’s name. He adamantly opposed the resolution’s use of the term “Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM),” instead insisting on the correct constitutional name, “The Republic of Macedonia.” His speech highlighted the ongoing controversies between Macedonia and Greece, where he defended Macedonia’s rights while advocating for improved relations between the two nations. Congressman Pascrell’s balanced yet resolute defense of Macedonian interests was a testament to his dedication to justice and fairness.

Moreover, he was a vocal proponent of Macedonia’s admission into NATO, recognizing the strategic importance of this alliance. His advocacy, along with others, contributed to Macedonia’s eventual membership in NATO in 2020, marking a significant milestone for the country.

Metodija A. Koloski, Co-Founder and President Emeritus of UMD, who had the honor of interning with Congressman Pascrell while in college, reflected on his passing: “The Congressman was an unwavering advocate for what’s right, always speaking the truth with conviction. I will forever cherish his friendship, his unwavering support for us, and the significant role he played in elevating Macedonia and Macedonian-Americans in Washington, D.C., and New Jersey. Macedonia lost a real friend in Congress and we will never forget.”

Macedonian Honorary Consul to New Jersey and Macedonian American business leader Slavco Madzarov, who had a more than thirty-year friendship with Congressman Pascrell, since immigrating to the United States, issued the following: “Bill was more than a friend, he was family. He gave selflessly for his family, his friends, his community, and our nation. He was a fighter till the very end and stood for a better America. My heart goes out to Elsie, his children, and grandchildren whom he was very proud of, during this time of grief.”

In May 2009, Congressman Pascrell paid tribute to Madzarov on the floor of the House of Representatives, recognizing his Macedonian roots and significant contributions to New Jersey.

At the inaugural UMD Global Conference in 2009, UMD proudly presented Congressman Pascrell with the UMD Macedonia Friendship Award. His heartfelt acceptance speech underscored his deep connection to the Macedonian-American community:

“There is a large Macedonian-American community in New Jersey and in my district where two Macedonian Orthodox congregations are based. I know that my community has benefited greatly from the contributions of Macedonian-Americans… We are honored that you are here in the United States of America and are citizens of our country. I think the organization which I mentioned before [United Macedonian Diaspora] has done a spectacular job of being a bridge between the United States and Macedonia. I commend that organization… I said to my Macedonian friends, reach out and do not stop. Reach out and I will do everything I can to be that bridge as well… I thank you for this award. It means a lot to me, but more important than the award is my friendship with the Macedonian-American community and my respect for that country… I am here in Washington, D.C., and I am committed to do everything I possibly can to build the bridge to make that bridge stronger.”

UMD extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Elsie Pascrell, his entire family, and all his friends. Congressman Pascrell’s legacy of service and his unwavering support for Macedonia will forever be remembered and cherished by the Macedonian community.

UMD compiled several Macedonian-American photos with the Congressman, which you can see by clicking here.