A group of Albanian-American writers, journalists and cultural figures visited the White House in Washington, D.C., in an organized tour that offered participants a closer look at American presidential history and the country’s most recognizable political landmark.
The visit was organized by the Albanian-American Writers Association, led by its president, Adi Memeti.
Writer and journalist Keze Kozeta Zylo described the experience in an article published by Illyria on November 1, reflecting on the historical significance of the visit and the opportunity to explore rooms associated with generations of American presidents.
Exploring the History of the White House
During the visit, participants toured several of the White House’s best-known ceremonial spaces, including the Green Room, Red Room and Blue Room.
Each room has played a role in presidential receptions, diplomatic gatherings and important moments in American history.
The group also visited the State Dining Room, a setting traditionally used for official dinners honoring international guests and dignitaries.
For the visiting writers, the experience offered an opportunity to connect with the history of the United States, the country in which many members of the Albanian diaspora have built their lives and careers.
The visit was a cultural and historical tour, with no reported meeting with President Donald Trump or members of his administration.
Albanian-American Cultural Figures Take Part
Among the participants were Mhill Vela, a former president of the Albanian-American Writers Association, and Professor Bexhet Asani, the association’s secretary.
Journalists Ibadete and Shkumbin Tetaj also joined the group, alongside Voice of America journalists Laura Kondi and Shaqir Salihu.
Other participants included journalist Eva Dori, writers Merita Bajraktari and Luz Thaqi, and Vilma Tafaj.
Qemal Zylo, founder and director of Alba Life television and Albanian schools in New York, attended with other members of the community.
The visit reflects the continued activity of Albanian-American cultural organizations, which bring together writers, educators and journalists across the United States.
Through literary events, educational initiatives and community activities, these organizations provide opportunities for Albanian Americans to maintain their language and cultural identity while participating in American civic life.
For the group visiting Washington, the experience was an occasion to explore a prominent part of their adopted country’s history and share it with the wider Albanian-American community.
