Valdete Cenalia Dida/
In Riverdale, NJ, the 2025-2026 school year opened with special emotions at the Albanian school. Children, parents, and teachers gathered together to celebrate their love for the Albanian language and culture, proving that our roots are never forgotten, even when far from the homeland. A special moment of this festive day was the support of the Illyrian Association – Port Authority, accompanied by the Illyrian Knights, who distributed gifts to the students: school supplies and educational games. These gifts brought smiles to the children’s faces and inspired them to cherish the beautiful Albanian language and our traditions.
Among the honored guests was the Mayor of Fairview, Mrs. Violeta Berisha. With her heart always close to the community, she is present at every event where the name of Albania beats strongly, becoming the most beautiful bridge connecting the generations of the diaspora with their homeland. With her warm words, Violeta embraced the Albanian community and expressed her support for the younger generations. She was applauded with respect, as a symbol of success and a dignified representative of Albanians in the social and institutional life of the United States. This collaboration between the school, the association, and local institutions is living proof that the Albanian language and culture continue to flourish wherever there are Albanians who love their homeland. This achievement is made possible thanks to the support of President Sinan Alimi and the tireless principal Gonxhe Meta. “The Albanian language is my blood, it is my nation, it is myself” Ismail Kadare.