In 2019, the Government of Ontario proclaimed March as Hellenic Heritage Month.
There are over 270,000 Canadians of Hellenic or Greek descent living in Canada, with more than half residing in Ontario. Since the early nineteenth century, immigrants from Greece have made significant contributions to Ontario’s culture, economy, and various fields such as education, law, medicine, science, and politics. Greece’s vast history, including its structures for democratic governance, philosophy, and scientific methodologies, have influenced many present day practices and structures in Canada. Greek Independence Day, celebrated on March 25, marks Greece’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire in 1821. By designating March as Hellenic Heritage Month, the York Region District School Board honors the identities, diverse experiences and achievements of Greek students, families and staff in our school board.