Legislator David Tubiolo, Henry Djonbalaj, Nik Beqi, Untermeyer Performing Arts Council (UPAC), City of Yonkers and Arts Westchester hosted their 4th Annual Albanian Independence Day Concert on Sunday, November 27 at Yonkers Montessori Academy.

In 2013, after careful brainstorming, David Tubiolo and Henry Djonbalaj conceived the idea of acknowledging the Albanian community for their Independence. A celebratory concert seemed to be the most exciting tribute.

Aida Gashi and Sebi Tinaj were, the Master of Ceremonies, called upon Angjelina Nika, Choreographer of Rozafati from Our Lady of Shkodra, once again performed beautifully with our youth throughout the night. Simultaneously, renowned singers Valbona Peraj, Lisa Bujaj and Alberie Hadergjonaj, sung traditional Albanian songs depicting the wonderful culture through centuries-old customs.

On November 28, 1912, the Assembly of Vlore convened during the All-Albanian Congress, led by Ismail Qemali, and declared the people of Albania independent from over five centuries of rule and suppression from the Ottoman Empire.

“I am honored and proud to represent our wonderful Albanian community. When we think about the strong core values of family, community, respect, discipline, hard-work and tradition we think of our Albanian community. Sponsoring the 4th annual Albanian Independence Day Concert is a token of acknowledgement, appreciation and recognition for the all great contributions of the Albanian people,” said Legislator Tubiolo.

“We are always proud to celebrate the richness of diversity and culture in Yonkers. We congratulate our Albanian community and thank them for the many contributions and talents they bring to our city,” said Mayor Mike Spano.

“Thank you to the Albanian community for a great turn-out, thank you to all our wonderful sponsors for providing the means of our 4th year. It’s the people of the Albanian community we strive for and deliver for; it’s the people that make our concert better each year. Next year will be bigger and better,” said Henry Djonbalaj.

Today, there are many examples from the Albanian American community living their American dream, such as, Joe DioGuardi (former-Congressman), Eliza Dushku (actress), Fan S. Noli (Prime Minister of Albania), Donald Leka (pioneer in cloud computing and creator of Glide OS), Ferid Murad (co-winner of 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology), and so many more.

Again, we thank everyone for their attendance and look forward to bringing about even more excitement and cultural enrichment in the years to come!