AHEPA Supportive of Archdiocese, St. Nicholas in Their Suit Against Port Authority

WASHINGTON - The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a leading membership-based association for the nation's three million American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, expressed support for... the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and St. Nicholas Church as the latter parties announced today that they filed a lawsuit against the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in order to foster rebuilding St. Nicholas Church, the only house of worship destroyed by the September 11 terrorist attacks, announced Supreme President Nicholas A. Karacostas.

"It is unfortunate that it has come to this, but I'm afraid bureaucracy knows no other way," Karacostas said. "The Archdiocese and the Church made many attempts to meet with the Port Authority only to be met with silence. We are supportive of their decision to pursue litigation."

Karacostas added, "We maintain it remains unacceptable that the Port Authority has failed to meet its commitment and resume negotiations with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America to rebuild St. Nicholas at 130 Liberty Street, a site chosen by the Port Authority."

AHEPA embarked on a petition campaign that provided more than 20,000 signatures of individuals who called on the Port Authority to honor its commitment and meet with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Supreme President Karacostas has also requested a meeting with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to discuss the issue.

To view the Archdiocese's statement, please click here.