NE Ohio Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Resolution 13, affirming the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus. The resolution was passed with a 91-2 vote, as announced by bill sponsors State Representatives Steve Demetriou (R-Bainbridge Twp.) and Nick Santucci (R-Niles).

This legislation also marks the 50th anniversary of Turkey's invasion and occupation of northern Cyprus, an event that occurred on July 20, 1974, causing the displacement of over 160,000 Greek Cypriots. Many of those displaced still cannot return due to Turkey's continued occupation of the area.

Demetriou, reflecting on the personal impact, stated, “Like many Greek Cypriots, my grandfather, Savvas, immigrated to the United States to find his own version of the American Dream while many others from our community weren’t as fortunate. The passage of this resolution is a statement from the Ohio House that we recognize and honor the Republic of Cyprus’s sovereignty over the entirety of the island.”

Santucci highlighted the local impact, noting, “Trumbull County, which I proudly represent, is home to a vibrant community of Greek Americans who have made lasting contributions to our region. In joint sponsoring House Resolution 13, I stand with my constituents in honoring the resilience of the people of Cyprus, who have faced decades of division and displacement from their homeland.”