Stamford Community Organizes the Annual Celebration of Albanian Independence Day (Flag Day) Ceremony <p> Stamford, CT, November 28, 2010: The Society of Albanian-American Writers applauds the work of the Albanian-American community in Stamford in organizing activities to commemorate the 98th Anniversary of Albanian Independence. We are pleased to invite our friends and neighbors in the media to participate in our annual Flag raising ...ceremony on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Stamford Government Center. <p> Two important events in Albanian history occurred on November 28th. In 1443, the famous Albanian leader Gjergj Kastrioti (Scanderbeg) raised the flag, declaring independence from the Ottoman Empire and marking the first attempt at building an independent Albanian state. History had other plans and that noble objective was not attained until 1912. On November 28th, 1912 Albanian patriots, under the leadership of Ismail Qemali, raised the Albanian flag and proclaimed Albanian independence from the Ottoman Empire. Since then, this date is recognized and celebrated as Albanian Independence Day. This is the most significant day celebrated by Albanian-Americans in dozens of cities and towns throughout the United States. The Stamford community will once again join this contingency and will once again host its annual festivities this year in collaboration with the Office of Mayor Michael Pavia. <p> The Albanian-American community is proud of its ties to the City of Stamford. Here, Albanians have founded community organizations, local businesses and branches of national institutions, and have contributed to the enrichment of churches, mosques and other political and cultural organizations throughout the area. Our community in Stamford and other parts of lower Fairfield County has grown tremendously and continues to grow every year. Today, approximately 25,000 Albanian-Americans live and work in Connecticut. We are an integral part of the social and political life in our communities throughout Connecticut and play an active role in the business community, in education and in the political process. We are pleased to have the opportunity to invite you to join us for this important celebration: <p> American and Albanian Flag Raising ceremony will take place at the Stamford Government Center <p> Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. 888 Washington Blvd, Stamford, CT. <p> This ceremony will include cultural activities and distinguished guest speakers. Please join us to celebrate.