# Ramiz Tafilaj

Ramiz Tafilaj (born 6 May 1949 in Deçan, SFR Yugoslavia, now Kosovo) is an Albanian-American businessman, philanthropist, activist, and publisher known for his significant contributions to the Albanian community in the United States and beyond. Tafilaj is particularly known for his tireless efforts to advance the Albanian cause, advocating for greater recognition of Albanian history, culture, and human rights.

## Personal life

Tafilaj was born to a workers family from Deçan. In 1974, he emigrated to the United States, where he married his wife Diana, with whom he has been married for about 47 years. They have three adult children. One of them is an entrepreneur, the other one is a VP in the banking industry, and one is a nonprofit executive.

## Philanthropy and activism

In addition to his business ventures, Tafilaj is a dedicated philanthropist and activist. He has supported Albanian mutual aid societies and fraternal organizations in the United States, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Montenegro.
As an activist, Tafilaj has been a prominent voice in the Albanian community for decades. He has used his resources and influence to lobby for the Albanian cause in the United States and beyond. Tafilaj has founded and supported numerous publishing ventures, including the Jalifat Publishing Company, which has published works by major Albanian writers, such as Jusuf Buxhovi, Hajredin Kuçi, Faton Bislimi, Avni Spahiu, and Nuhi Vinca.

## Honors and recognition

Tafilaj's dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, he was honored with the President's Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest distinction given to civilians who model the American spirit. He has also received recognition from his peers in his hometown of Deçan and from the Mayor of Vushtrri for his contributions to the affirmation of the National Albanian Issue, the work done by students and supporters with scholarships, and the affirmation of Albanian culture and history. In 2022, the Municipality of Pukë gave him the title of Citizen of Honor for his contribution to the democratization of Albania and the liberation and independence of Kosovo. Tafilaj received the Mirenjohje award from the Albanian American Cultural Center for his unreserved work and contribution in support of the Albanian national cause. The award recognized his voluntary engagement in the Albanian-American community and his cooperation with the highest state institutions of the US in Washington, DC. The award also acknowledged Tafilaj's philanthropy and his publication of numerous works that reflect and elevate the image of the Albanian nation in the United States and in the world.
Tafilaj has also been recognized for his humanitarian work and contributions to education. He has sponsored over 100 Albanian students for university education in the US and has helped them integrate into American society. In recognition of his contributions to education and humanitarian work, Tafilaj was awarded the title Akademik Mark Krasniqi and Krenaria e Alpeve Shqiptare.
Tafilaj has also been recognized for his efforts to strengthen historical Albanian-American ties and raise the image of the Albanian people and their national values in the United States of America. In 2008, he was awarded the title Kalorës i Urdhrit të Skënderbeut by the Albanian President.
Tafilaj has received numerous other awards for his contributions to the Albanian cause, including the Idriz Seferi award from the municipality of Gjilan and recognition for his patriotic and cultural activities from the Lidhja e Krijuesve Shqiptarë në Mërgatë and the Association of Independent Intellectuals.

## Legacy

Tafilaj's commitment to promoting the interests of the Albanian people and strengthening Albanian culture and heritage has made him a beloved figure in the Albanian-American community. Through his work and his philanthropic efforts, Tafilaj has become an important symbol of the enduring ties between Albania and the United States.