Raptakis introduces bill to create RI Greek Heritage License Plate sponsored by AHEPA

Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas P. Raptakis has introduced legislation that would create a Rhode Island Greek Heritage license plate in conjunction with the local Rhode Island chapters of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA).

“The noble Hellenic community in our state has always emphasized the strong connection between Rhode Island, known for its commitment to independence, and the nation of Greece, which was the birthplace of democracy.  Hellenic Rhode Islanders are proud of their heritage and this bill will allow them to further share their rich and historic culture with the rest of the state. I am honored to introduce this bill and I will do everything in my power to ensure its passage”, said Senator Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, West Greenwich).

The bill would empower the Division of Motor Vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for a Greek Hellenic Heritage license plate for automobiles under the auspices of the Rhode Island three AHEPA chapters.

AHEPA is a fraternal organization founded on July 26, 1922, in Atlanta, Georgia.  AHEPA was founded with a focus on civil rights, particularly to counteract the Ku Klux Klan.  It is the largest and oldest grassroots association of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes with more than 400 chapters across the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe.

The mission of AHEPA is to promote the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism.

Rhode Island has three AHEPA chapters associated with the Assumption, Annunciation and St Spyridon Greek Orthodox Churches located in Cranston, Newport and Pawtucket, respectively.

The legislation was heard on March 7 by the Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs Committee and six variations of the plate were presented which the Rhode Island Greek American community will choose the final version to be submitted to the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles for a final approval.

Source: https://www.greeknewsusa.com/raptakis-introduces-bill-to-create-ri-greek-heritage-license-plate-sponsored-by-ahepa/