Canadian Hellenic Medical Society Joins OXI Day Parade in Toronto for the First Time

On October 26, 2025, the Canadian Hellenic Medical Society proudly participated for the first time in the OXI Day Parade organized by the Greek Community of Toronto, commemorating Greece’s historic refusal to surrender to fascist forces on October 28, 1940.

This historic milestone for CHMS brought together a strong delegation of board and committee members to honour Hellenic heritage and stand in solidarity with the Greek‑Canadian community.

Board representatives:

• Dr. David Rossolatos — Vice President
• Dr. Elena Koskinas — Secretary
• Dr. John Koussiouris — Treasurer
• Dr. Andrew Kosmopoulos — Vice Treasurer
• Dr. Maria Psihogios — Education & CME Director
• Dr. Joanna Lioutas — Vice Secretary

Committee representatives:

• Dr. Eva Lioutas — Events Committee
• Dr. Nicolette Stogios — Education & Community Outreach Committee
• Dr. Anastasia Drakos — Membership Committee

Flag Bearers:
The Greek, Byzantine (Orthodox), and Canadian flags were proudly carried by Dr. George Frangias, Alexandros Karypidis, and Dr. Maria Psihogios, respectively. Dr. Frangias and Dr. Psihogios wore traditional Greek dress, adding a striking and culturally rich presence to the occasion.

Other Members:
Dr. Despina Michailidis, Stylian Michailidis, Mia Vardouniotis, and Melinda Marghetis also joined the CHMS delegation, contributing to a warm, intergenerational, and spirited representation of the society.

We also extend heartfelt thanks to the family members and friends who joined us and cheered on our participants from the sidelines. A special thanks goes to our member André Kapitan for capturing wonderful photos of our parade group, helping us preserve and share the memories of this meaningful day. Your support made this moment even more memorable for all involved.

After the parade, members of the CHMS parade group gathered for a celebratory social at Ballyhoo Public House, joined by the Hellenic Heritage Foundation board of directors, representatives from the Greektown BIA, and students from the Hellenic Student Associations of York University, University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, McMaster University, and the University of Guelph.

Building on the success and community spirit of this inaugural appearance, CHMS is excited to confirm its participation in the Greek Independence Day Parade in March 2026. We encourage all members, students, families, and friends to join us once again as we honour our shared Hellenic heritage and strengthen our presence within the broader Greek-Canadian community.