The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) celebrates 244 years of American Independence.
Beginning in the early twentieth century, many Macedonians immigrated to the United States fleeing from the violence that resulted from the Ilinden Uprising against the Ottoman Empire. Prior to World War I, a large wave of Macedonians had already migrated to the United States, and this was followed by another wave after the conclusion of World War II. The majority of Macedonian immigrants settled in Chicago, Detroit, and various other Midwestern or Northeastern cities, and found jobs working in the heavy industries.
Since their arrival in the United States, Macedonians have continuously advocated for the independence of their homeland, equality, human rights, and have established dozens of Macedonian Orthodox Churches. Macedonian immigrants spread their culture, language, and heritage to the communities in which they settled, and many started successful small businesses of their own. Today, the community in the U.S. is a vibrant one embedded within the American mosaic partaking in all walks of life, public service, business, legal and medical fields, arts, and sports, restaurants, and more.
UMD knows the importance of recognizing Macedonian heritage and urges all Macedonian-Americans to write in “Macedonian” under Question 9 on the 2020 U.S. Census. There is no better way to empower the Macedonian-American community than by accurately counting all Americans of Macedonian heritage! Showing the growth and strength of the Macedonian-American relationship will not only help create a stronger sense of community but can also lead to increased influence and recognition in American society.
UMD encourages all Macedonian-American’s to celebrate American Independence Day while keeping the deadline for the 2020 U.S. Census in mind. October 31st is the last day to fill out the census to be appropriately accounted for and additionally show their own pride for their roots and homeland, Macedonia. Click HERE to fill out the Census
All of us at UMD and Macedonians as a whole are happy to share in the celebrations of another year of American Independence and the continuance of strengthening U.S.-Macedonia relations in the future.
Sources:
