Albanians For America: Uniting the U.S. Albanian Diaspora for Stronger Bilateral Ties

 A new Albanian diaspora organization, Albanians For America (AFA), has been officially launched in Dallas, Texas, aiming to bolster relations between the U.S. and the Albanian and Kosovar communities both in the U.S. and abroad. This initiative, founded by well-known activists Doc Vranici and Gëzim Rushiti, aims to create a bipartisan network of support in the U.S. to strengthen ties with Albania and Kosovo.

 

As part of its outreach, AFA includes members from several U.S. states, including New York, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, Florida, and Washington. Gino Mulliqi, another prominent member of AFA’s organizing team, emphasized that the group represents Albanians from across the U.S., creating a unified voice for advocacy, particularly around issues that affect the Albanian and Kosovar communities.

Mission and Goals of AFA

AFA’s mission includes promoting bipartisan support for U.S. partnerships with Albania and Kosovo, advocating for social and economic freedoms, and contributing to shared values that benefit both nations. As stated in the organization’s declaration, the U.S.’s relationship with Albania and Kosovo is built on mutual respect for social and economic liberties, fostering mutual interests and values. Through this foundation, AFA envisions a partnership that benefits not only the involved countries but Albanians worldwide.

The organization has registered as a nonprofit under U.S. law (501(c)(4)), making it eligible for certain tax exemptions while enabling political advocacy. AFA offers an annual membership for $10, with opportunities for members to contribute additional donations, either one-time or monthly, to further its mission.

A Growing Presence

To connect with its members and spread its mission, AFA has established a social media presence on Facebook under the name "Albanians For America." This platform provides updates, advocacy information, and events designed to strengthen the voice of Albanians in the U.S.

One recent event, titled "Kafe Shqiptare me Keith," brought the Albanian-American community together in Dallas for a morning discussion with Congressman Keith Self, who represents Texas’s 3rd Congressional District. During this event, Congressman Self engaged in a question-and-answer session with attendees, discussing issues significant to the community. AFA is hopeful that events like these will create lasting political alliances and further empower Albanians in the U.S.

Looking Ahead

AFA encourages all Albanian-Americans to join its membership base to amplify their influence in strengthening U.S.-Albania relations and to support Kosovo’s sovereignty and independence. As the organization continues to grow, it remains committed to advocating for the Albanian community and ensuring the benefits of a strong U.S.-Albanian and U.S.-Kosovo alliance for future generations.

Through initiatives like these, Albanians For America seeks to unify the Albanian diaspora under shared goals and foster impactful political and cultural contributions in the United States.