AMERICAN HELLENIC EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION (AHEPA)

AMERICAN HELLENIC EDUCATION PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION (AHEPA). On June 4, 1930 twenty-four Dubuque residents who were native of Greece were admitted into membership in the newly organized Dubuque chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (A.H.E.P.A). Prominent members of similar groups in Chicago, Waterloo, Cedar Rapids and Des Moines were present for the occasion. The charter for the new organization was presented by officials from the national organization. (1)

A.H.E.P.A. had as its primary goal the complete Americanization of Greek-Americans. The organization also provided funds for the education of deserving Greek Americans. (2) Before being able to join, potential members had to be American citizens or be in the process of obtaining their citizenship papers. They also had to have excellent moral and business histories in the community in which they lived. Membership was not limited to Greeks. (3)

The officers of the organization included James N.YIANNIAS, president; Peter G. TAKOS, vice-president; and Theodore Poulos, secretary. (4)

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Source:

1. "Greek-Americans Here Organized," Telegraph-Herald and Times-Journal, June 5, 1930, p. 41

2. "Dubuque Branch of Greek Organization to be Formed Tuesday," Telegraph-Herald and Times-Journal, June 3, 1930, p. 25

3. "Greek-Americans..."

4. Ibid.