A group of 21 students and their parents from the 1st Primary School of Voula Attica carried out a mission of solidarity to the unspoiled Agathonisi of the Dodecanese Islands. The purpose of their trip was to parade with the few – six in number – students of the island, putting into practice the motto they have adopted “All together, no one alone”.
On last year’s anniversary of March 25, the Voula school team was in Arkios, marching alongside the only student there, Angelos. As then and now, two members of Spartan origin participated in the expedition, who conveyed their experience to the “Laconic Press”.
It is about the Spartan lawyer Irini Chioti and her 11-year-old daughter, Athina Kanavou, who chose to parade in Agathonisi wearing the traditional female costume of Mani. As they mentioned, the uniforms were a kind gift of the Apandachou Maniathon Union and its president Dimitra Kouvaris, whom they warmly thank. Thus, the “Maniatisses” associated with the Beginning of the Greek Revolution united their pride with the Akrites of this place, in an act with high symbolism.
“Our aim is to cultivate consciences, building memories”, notes Mrs. Chioti, explaining: “By showing practical support “where there are Angels”, we educate young citizens with empathy, we teach solidarity, cooperation and like-mindedness through work. The national anniversaries are an occasion to unite and strengthen the patriotic spirit in the end of the country.”
The mission started on Friday 22/3 from Piraeus arriving the next day in Patmos, where they were welcomed by the mayor Mr. Nikitas Tsampalakis. The mayor was also awarded an honorary plaque for supporting the mission of the 1st Voula Primary School. The children were guided to the Holy Cave of the Apocalypse and then, by boat, they traveled to Agathonisi. There the mayor, the residents, the few students, the teachers, the security forces, the holy clergy and Elder Amfilochios welcomed them with a warm hug.
On Sunday, the members of the mission took part in a special anniversary celebration and on March 25 they paraded with their new friends in rural Agathonisi. They proudly wore traditional costumes from all over Greece and held a large Greek flag. They spread joy and unique emotions to the few inhabitants of the island and the young students, who spend many months in the winter stranded, without a ferry connection.