The 2025 Detroit Greek Independence Day Parade was a vibrant celebration of Hellenism, faith, and unity, drawing hundreds from across Michigan and beyond. Hosted by the Detroit Greek Independence Day Committee, the parade welcomed a distinguished slate of guests, including His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the Presidential Guard of Greece (Evzones), Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit, Metropolitan Maximos of Ioannina, His Grace Bishop Athenagoras, Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and the wife of Consul General Emmanuel Koubarakis. Grand Marshal Vasilios Vouharas — a proud AHEPAN — led the procession with distinction. A particularly moving moment came as AHEPA District 10 Lt. Governor Othonas Economopoulos, dressed in full traditional uniform as the last Evzone of the historic Detroit Evzone Society, escorted and honored the Grand Marshal in tribute to our enduring legacy.

AHEPA District 10 was proudly represented by Governor James Thomas, Lt. Governor Economopoulos, Secretary Marcus Spica, Treasurer Merek Vincent, and Warden Alex Apetroaei. From the Daughters of Penelope, Governor Joanne Dau, Lt. Governor Kiningham, and MOA Advisor Artemis Stanisz joined the festivities. Both AHEPA District Governor James Thomas and DOP District Governor Joanne Dau were formally recognized among the honored dignitaries present that day — a meaningful testament to their leadership and service. The day also included a deeply spiritual moment as attendees and the Evzones venerated the sacred relics of St. George the New Martyr of Ioannina, patron of the Evzones, which were brought by Metropolitan Maximos and housed at the Cathedral. A special thank you to AHEPA Omega Chapter 371 for their generous hospitality, including their support of the local Cretan community and their gracious hosting of Metropolitan Maximos at the AHEPA 371 Apartments — a testament to the strength and spirit of our brotherhood.