For years, the Greek islands of Chios, Lesvos and Samos have been bearing a tremendous economic, social and institutional burden from the heavy influx of migrants(and refugees). The over 40,000 migrants currently on the islands is overwhelming the native population. Processing and relocation does not happen fast enough to offset new arrivals each day. This is a crisis for both the migrants who live in inadequate facilities and the natives of the island who's economy and institutional infrastructure is overwhelmed. There is an urgent need to: Control the inflow of migrants who mostly travel the narrow straights from Turkey, quite dangerously, via smugglers who take advantage of them. Reduce the inflow of migrants. This may be through border patrol but more importantly a combination of increased and more effective efforts between the Greek government, the European Union and the United Nations to mitigate the circumstances by which these desperate people need to leave their own homelands. Reduce over-crowding by improving processing procedures, ensuring additional reception facilities in other EU countries and transport them there as quickly as possible. Philoxenia is a Greek word literally translated as "friend to a stranger" and is synonymous to hospitality. The people of our islands exhibit that every day. But it is unfair to take advantage of them and treat them like disposable pawns in a very serious game controlled by much larger and more powerful players. The events of the past week were the result of built-up tensions and an unfortunate flashpoint that is uncharacteristic of our society. Hopefully, it serves as a wake-up call for us all to work together for everyone's benefit and effect a positive outcome. These islands, other islands in the Aegean and areas on the mainland not only comprise much of Greece's border but also that of the European Union. They need support! The North Aegean Relief Alliance, made up of organizations representing each of the three islands, is holding an Awareness Rally on Sunday March 8th at Athens Square Park in Astoria, NY at 2 PM. Our goals for this day are to: Show our love, support and prayers for our friends and families on the islands. Raise awareness to the Greek, American and International communities. Effect changes and improvements to the methods currently employed for the benefit of the migrants, refugees and natives alike. The Panchiaki Korais Society of New York proudly stands by our fellow Chians and Greeks in support of a positive resolution to this crisis. Please join us on March 8th and show your support.