Adelaide community marks UNESCO World Greek Language Day in Unley

Members of the Greek Australian community gathered in Unley, South Australia, on Sunday 15 March to celebrate UNESCO World Greek Language Day, with an afternoon tea highlighting the enduring cultural and historical significance of the Greek language.

The event brought together families, community organisations and supporters of multiculturalism for an afternoon filled with traditional Greek dancing, poetry recitals and lively conversations in Greek, celebrating one of the world’s oldest continuously spoken languages.

Federal Member for Adelaide, Steve Georganas, attended the celebration and joined local residents in recognising the contributions of Greek Australians to the cultural and social life of South Australia.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees shared stories, food and reflections on the importance of preserving the Greek language across generations. Children and young people took part in performances, reciting poems and participating in traditional dances, highlighting the ongoing role of the younger generation in keeping the language alive.

Georganas said the gathering was a meaningful opportunity for the community to celebrate its heritage while reinforcing the importance of cultural diversity within Australia.

“It was a special moment for the community, to come together and be united by our proud heritage,” he said.

“The Greek language is more than a means of communication. It carries our history, our philosophy, and our identity. Celebrating it is a way of honouring the generations who kept it alive and those who continue to pass it on.”

He also emphasised the broader importance of cultural celebrations within Australia’s multicultural society.

“Events like today show the strength of our multicultural society. When we celebrate our languages and traditions, we build understanding, respect, and harmony across the broader community.”

Georganas noted that the strong participation of children and young people offered reassurance that the Greek language and traditions will continue to thrive.

“Seeing children and young people speaking Greek, performing poems, and learning traditional dances gives me great confidence that our rich cultural heritage will endure for generations to come,” he said.

The celebration concluded with shared desserts, music and conversation, reflecting the sense of community, cultural pride and unity that UNESCO World Greek Language Day seeks to promote across Greek communities around the world.