Copyright Staten Island Advance
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." “It’s important to remind them of the sacrifices that our ancestors made to immigrate here and create better lives for our people,” Budzaku added. “Our organization aims to preserve our identity. Our events are fun but they are also an education for the children. “We want to teach the next generation where they come from, and the hard work and sacrifices of their ancestors. to immigrate here to create a better lives. Founded in 1996, the Dibra Community Organization has long served as a cultural anchor for Staten Island’s Albanian-American families. Budzaku, who was born and raised in New Dorp, took the helm earlier this year and said Sunday’s celebration was the first children-focused event organized under his leadership. “It’s been a great success,” he said. “We have over 300 people here from all corners of Staten Island and New York, and everyone’s been giving us great feedback.” The afternoon featured games, music and a sit-down brunch, while parents chatted and children waved small Albanian flags in honor of the nation’s Nov. 28 Independence Day — the date Albania declared independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. Budzaku said the organization plans to continue that sense of pride and visibility later this month with another community favorite. “We are now planning our upcoming car parade for November 23, which we have done the last few years. “Spectators will enjoy seeing Albanian and American flags flying along Hylan Boulevard as we drive through Staten Island. It will be great.” Although Budzaku’s immediate family was not previously involved with the organization, he said community ties and mentorship inspired him to take on the leadership role. “One of my best friends and mentors, Dashi Miftari, was a former president who helped shape me into becoming the next president,” Budzaku said. “He gives it to me straight — the way it should be heard.” As the event wound down and families took photos in front of red-and-black Albanian banners, Budzaku reflected on what the celebration meant to him. “It’s about keeping our traditions alive,” he said. “For the kids especially, it’s a reminder of who we are.” ABOUT THE DIBRA COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION The Dibra Community Organization is a nonprofit dedicated to helping and uniting the Dibran Albanian community in America. Its mission is rooted in three core principles: opportunity, tradition and progression. The organization strives to create an environment where every individual has the chance to grow, succeed and contribute, unlocking their full potential while strengthening community bonds. Dibra.org also works to honor and preserve the values, culture and wisdom that have shaped the Dibran Albanian identity, ensuring that this rich legacy remains a guiding force for future generations. The organization embraces innovation and new ideas, seeking continuous improvement to drive positive change and build a dynamic, evolving future for all members of the community.
