Shoqata Lazarati – Michigan
Preserving History, Culture, and Community Memory
Lazarat Cultural & Patriotic Association – Michigan is a nonprofit cultural and patriotic organization. It was founded by members of the Lazarat community in Michigan of the United States. The association aims to preserve the historical truth of Lazarat. It also focuses on protecting its cultural heritage and collective memory. Additionally, it strengthens community ties across generations and borders.
With roots deeply connected to Lazarat and its surrounding regions, the association serves as a bridge. It connects Albania and the Albanian diaspora. This ensures that valuable stories, traditions, and historical experiences are documented, protected, and shared responsibly.
Our Mission
Our mission is to:
- Preserve and document the history of Lazarat and its people
- Honor individuals who contributed to freedom, dignity, and national identity
- Promote cultural heritage, traditions, and historical awareness
- Support research, publications, and educational initiatives related to Lazarat
- Strengthen connections within the Lazarat community worldwide
We believe that history must be preserved truthfully, respectfully, and independently, free from distortion or political manipulation.
Our Work
Through Lazarati.org and related initiatives, the association undertakes:
- Historical Documentation
Biographies, memorial pages, and eyewitness accounts are published. We also focus on archival research related to Lazarat’s past. This includes periods of national struggle, World War II, and the communist dictatorship. - Memorial and Remembrance Projects
We honor victims of political persecution. We remember martyrs of democracy. We acknowledge individuals who stood for human dignity and moral courage. - Cultural Preservation
Documenting traditions, folklore, language, customs, and intergenerational memories that define Lazarat’s cultural identity. - Publications and Media
Supporting books, articles, documentaries, and exhibitions that contribute to historical understanding and public education. - Community Engagement
Connecting Lazarat families in Albania, the United States, and the broader diaspora through shared history and collective memory.
Our Values
The work of Shoqata Kulturore Atdhetare Lazarati is guided by core values that show the historical character of the village itself:
- Truth and Integrity – commitment to precise, documented history
- Human Dignity – respect for all victims of injustice and persecution
- Besa (Honor) – moral responsibility and trust
- Cultural Continuity – protecting heritage for future generations
- Non‑violence and Humanism – rejecting hatred, distortion, and division
Legal and Organizational Status
Shoqata Kulturore Atdhetare Lazarati – Michigan is a registered nonprofit organization in the United States. It operates under applicable federal and state laws. The association functions as an independent, community‑supported cultural organization.
Lazarati.org – A Living Historical Archive
This website serves as the official digital archive of the association. It is continuously updated to show new research, testimonies, and community contributions.
The content published on Lazarati.org is intended for:
- historical reference,
- educational use,
- cultural preservation,
- and public awareness.
We welcome contributions, documentation, and dialogue that align with our mission and standards.
Contact & Community
We invite members of the Lazarat community, researchers, and friends of Albanian history to connect with us. We encourage them to contribute responsibly. Their efforts help guarantee that the history of Lazarat is preserved with dignity, accuracy, and respect.
Leadership:
Ardi Ahmeti– President & Visionary
With roots in Lazarati , Ardi leads with empathy, innovation, and purpose.
Current Board Members:
Resul Meci, Mihase Dajlani, Vesa Bejkaj, Taulant Dajlani, Sherif Buci, Mustafa Gaba, Brian Meci.
Founders of Lazerati Association (Shoqata Lazerati Michigan) :
| RESUL MECI |
| FANE BRAHIMI |
| RAPO GJINI |
| SHEREF MECI |
| PERTIT SHURDHI |
| FLEANC GABA |
| MUSTO GABA |
| PJERI KOCIU |
| BEZHAN TRAKO |
| KRENAR MECI |
| FABJOLA BRAHIMI |
| ADELAJDA GABA |
| ZINEDIN BEJKO |
| SEJDI DAJLANI |
| LEONARD BRAHIMI |
| SHERIF BUCI |
| TAULANT DALANI |
| GENTIAN AHMETI |
| VESA BEJKAJ |
| FERUZE BRAHIMI |
| ARDI AHMETI |
| HITO BRAHIMI |
| BRIAN MECI |