STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — More than 300 parents, children, relatives and supporters gathered Sunday afternoon at Grand Oaks Country Club in Huguenot to celebrate the inaugural Albanian Independence Day Children’s Party.
The grand ballroom brimmed with song, dance and tradition with touches of red, white, and black, the colors of Albania, which are prominently featured on the national flag, against a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage and overcast skies outside.
For those unfamiliar, red symbolizes bravery and the bloodshed during the fight for independence, while the black double-headed eagle represents sovereignty and national identity.
The highly-anticipated event, hosted by the Dibra Community Organization — also known as Shoqata Atdhetare Dibra— filled the ballroom with laughter, the sounds of Albanian music and attendees donning stunning traditional dress as families celebrated their heritage together.
For many, it was more than just a party — it was a reminder of identity.
“This organization is here to preserve our identity,” said Hakim Budzaku, the group’s new president. “You have so many kids who are being assimilated into Staten Island culture, which is great, but they also forget their Albanian identity — where they come from, where their ancestors came from.