This Sunday, Athens commemorated the 51st anniversary of the Athens Polytechnic Uprising with a powerful three-day tribute culminating in the November 17th march. The Polytechnic uprising of 1973 remains a symbol of the fight for democracy and resistance against oppression, and this year, over 25,000 participants gathered to remember the bravery of the students and citizens who defied the military junta.
Starting Friday, thousands visited the historic Polytechnic complex to pay homage to the students who risked—and in many cases, sacrificed—their lives for freedom and justice. Visitors left flowers, wreaths, and messages of respect in the courtyard, creating a poignant atmosphere around the building that became an emblem of courage in the face of dictatorship. These gestures honored not only those who fell but also the spirit of unity and resilience that has endured over half a century.
Sunday’s march, which followed a solemn gathering at the Polytechnic, brought together a broad range of participants, from student groups and university representatives to political parties, social organizations, and citizens. Many of our own teachers and students joined the march, underscoring the importance of this annual event as a way to reflect on the ongoing relevance of democratic principles.
One of our students who took part in the event shared their experience:
“Yesterday, I participated in the November 17th march, honoring the events of 1973 at the Polytechnic. The sheer number of people was astonishing; it felt like a citywide tribute. This experience was deeply moving because I felt part of something greater. I spoke with Greeks who explained the significance of this day, how the march stands not only for remembering the Polytechnic events but also as a call for democracy and justice in Greece and the world. Marching with them felt empowering—a stark contrast to the feeling of cynicism and inaction.”
The march is a yearly reminder of the power of collective resistance, emphasizing that democracy is not merely a historical memory but an ongoing commitment. Since 1980, the Polytechnic march has concluded at the American embassy, symbolizing both remembrance and continued vigilance against injustices, both local and global. As Greece remembers the Polytechnic uprising, this march remains a powerful testament to the enduring struggle for freedom, unity, and solidarity.
