The Day of Republika Srpska and its patron saint, Saint Stephen the First Martyr, were celebrated with grandeur in Chicago. The event, held at the hall of the Holy Resurrection Cathedral, was attended by numerous expatriates originating from Republika Srpska and various other parts of the Balkans where Serbs reside.
Among the honorary guests at the event, organized by the Association of Serbs from Republika Srpska in Chicago, were Metropolitan Longin of Chicago, General Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina Tatjana Telić, Serbian Vice-Consuls Aleksandar Đorđević and Aleksandar Milić, Republika Srpska Senator Branko Tupanjac, representative of the Halyard Foundation Ranko Ristić, local clergy including Parish Priest Darko Spasojević, and leaders of Serbian associations such as the “Prelo” and Herzegovinian societies.
The evening commenced with the national anthems of the United States and Serbia, performed by the “Branko Radičević” Choir. Metropolitan Longin led the prayers and the ceremonial blessing of the slava bread, which was shared with attendees.
Unity and the Importance of Republika Srpska
Željko Živak, president of the Association of Serbs from Republika Srpska in Chicago, emphasized the significance of marking this day:
“We send a message of love to all who respect the Serb name, just as we respect others. Marking this day is crucial because we believe that the creation of Republika Srpska marked an end to centuries of Serb suffering in the region, giving hope for a better future. It reminds us to remain united to endure and protect our interests,” Živak stated.
Tatjana Telić, BiH’s consul, expressed her admiration for the enthusiasm of the organizers and participants:
“It is heartwarming to see our people celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Republika Srpska with such love, even far from home. This is a time to show unity, as seen in Banja Luka, where the leadership of Republika Srpska and Serbia celebrated together, demonstrating the solidarity we urgently need,” said Telić.
She also highlighted the possibility of a new approach under the upcoming U.S. administration:
“We hope that the new administration will reduce the current interventionist stance in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Regarding sanctions, we expect them to follow legal processes rather than political motives,” Telić added.
Messages from Republika Srpska Leadership
During the event, a video message from Milorad Dodik, President of Republika Srpska, was broadcast. Dodik thanked the diaspora for their continued connection to their homeland, even during challenging times:
“We do not seek financial aid, but we need your voices to reach decision-makers in the new U.S. administration. Explain to them that Republika Srpska has been a victim of unjust policies by the Democratic administrations of Biden and Clinton. Let them know that we are fighting for our rights and that all we ask is fairness,” Dodik urged.
Aleksandar Đorđević, Serbia’s vice-consul in Chicago, emphasized the enduring unity of Serbs worldwide:
“Borders may try to divide us, but they cannot change what we believe. Republika Srpska symbolizes our people’s aspirations for freedom, and I believe its boundaries will remain eternal if its people stay united,” Đorđević said.
Cultural and Historical Reflections
Metropolitan Longin congratulated Republika Srpska on its day, reflecting on the symbolic significance of Saint Stephen, the patron saint:
“Saint Stephen reminds us of faith, perseverance, and sacrifice. As we celebrate this day, we also pray for unity and strength for our people in Republika Srpska and Serbia,” Longin stated.
Ranko Ristić of the Halyard Foundation, whose heritage lies in Republika Srpska, shared his pride in his ancestors:
“I am proud that the final chapter of the Halyard Mission took place on Republika Srpska soil, where locals risked their lives to save allied airmen during WWII. Such bravery defines who we are as a people,” Ristić noted.
The celebration concluded with cultural performances and continued into the night, reinforcing the unity and pride of the Serb community.
Source: RTRS
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