Huntington Park Mayor proclaims Immigrants Day Oct. 28

Huntington Park tailor Nick Ioannidis, 74, left, displays a plaque proclaiming Oct. 28 as Immigrants Day in the city. From left are Mayor Mario Gomez, council members Elba Guerrero, Ofelia Hernandez and Andy Molina and Vice Major Juan Noguez. (Photo by Arnold Adler)

By WAVE STAFF

Story Created: Oct 22, 2009 at 11:18 AM PST

Story Updated: Oct 22, 2009 at 11:18 AM PST

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HUNTINGTON PARK — Mayor Mario Gomez, who said his family immigrated from Cuba, proclaimed Oct. 28 as Immigrants Day in the city and presented the proclamation Monday night to Nick Ioannidis, 74, who successfully campaigned for a national observance during the administration of President George H.W. Bush with the help of Rep. Augustus Hawkins, D-Los Angeles.

Bush signed a presidential proclamation marking Oct. 28 as National Immigrants Day in 1989.

Ioannidis is a native of Greece who came to the United States in 1964 and has resided and operated a tailor shop in Huntington Park since 1971.

In 1979 he moved to his current location, 2669 Gage Ave. He conducts a ceremony there each Oct. 28, inviting area dignitaries and serving refreshments. The noon ceremony is open to all.

“This is one day for all of us,” said Ioannidis, who stressed that his efforts are for all immigrants, not just those with a Latino heritage as are most of Huntington Park’s residents. “I work to have people love each other and to love their country. I support each of you.”

Ioannidis writes to numerous dignitaries each year urging them to take part in the observance.

“I have received proclamations from 48 of the 50 states,” he said.

His philosophy is that Americans should make immigrants welcome and the new arrivals should appreciate the opportunities they have here and be patriotic.

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