Page 5 - AARC GALA 2025 Journal
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Good Evening Friends
Thank you for joining us tonight as we celebrate our community, the power of advo- cacy, and the boundless potential that emerges when dedicated individuals unite to cre- ate lasting change.
The Albanian American community has a proud history of making a meaningful im- pact, both here in the United States and abroad. From Vatra to the Civic League, and through the extraordinary success of the National Albanian American Council, our com- munity has consistently risen to the occasion—answering the call to fight injustice with unwavering devotion to freedom, liberty, and human dignity.
When Albanians in North Macedonia signed the Ohrid Agreement, when Kosovo achieved its long-awaited independence, and when Albania became a NATO member, many believed the work was finished. But history has proven otherwise. While some steadfast individuals continued the struggle, as a community we grew complacent. Today, we see the results: much of what should have been accomplished remains unfin- ished, and much of what was never meant to happen, has. This complacency has created a void—a vacuum where damage has been done and opportunities have been lost.
The Albanian American Relations Council (AARC) is composed of veteran activists who have answered the call time and again. Yet our mission is far from complete. Tonight, we invite each of you to join us in renewing and strengthening the vital relation- ship between the United States and the Albanian people. Together, we can build upon past successes and shape a future defined by progress, unity, and mutual respect.
Let us remember: the fight for justice, freedom, and dignity is not a single moment—it is a lifelong commitment. We have the history, the power, and the passion to make a dif- ference. Let us continue this journey together, with renewed energy and unwavering re- solve.
Thank you for being here this evening, and thank you for standing with us as we move forward.
Martin Vulaj
President
AlbAniAn AmericAn relAtions council
ALBANIAN AMERICAN RELATIONS COUNCIL GALA 2025 5
