Events in Toronto and Montreal to Commemorate 10th Anniversary of Dink’s Assassination

TORONTO, Canada (A.W.)—The co-leader of Germany’s Green Party Cem Özdemir—a German Member of Parliament of Turkish origin and one of the initiators of the Armenian Genocide resolution that was approved by Germany’s Parliament (Bundestag) on June 2, 2016—will be the keynote speaker at events in Toronto and Montreal, commemorating the 10^th anniversary of Turkish-Armenian editor, journalist and columnist Hrant Dink’s assassination.

Cem Özdemir (Photo: Bündnis 90/Die Grünen Nordrhein-Westfalen)

Several community organizations in Toronto have come together for the past 10 years to remember the former editor-in-chief of the bilingual Turkish-Armenian newspaper Agos and to honor his legacy.

Speaking to the Armenian Weekly, chair of the organizing committee Raffi Bedrosyan said that the commemorations are not merely a remembrance, but rather a way for the community to continue Dink’s pursuit for justice. “Remembering Hrant Dink on the anniversary of his assassination is not simply commemorating a slain Armenian journalist. By remembering, we continue his journey toward reconciliation and justice regarding the Armenian Genocide. We also help realize his vision of dialogue between Armenian and Turkish people—a dialogue that is based on truth and a common body of knowledge,” Bedrosyan said.

Many influential figures have attended commemorations in Toronto honoring Dink over the years, including Turkish-German scholar Taner Akçam; lawyer, writer, and human rights activist Fethiye Çetin; and prominent Turkish journalist and writer Hasan Cemal. “These people share Hrant’s vision and break all taboos in Turkey. They stand against the denial of the truth about the Armenian Genocide,” Bedrosyan explained.

Dink was assassinated outside of his Istanbul office on Jan. 19, 2007. He had written and spoken about the Armenian Genocide extensively, and was well known for his efforts for reconciliation between Turks and Armenians, as well as advocating for human and minority rights in Turkey. At the time of his murder, Dink was under prosecution for violating Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code and “denigrating Turkishness.” His assassination sparked huge national protests and outrage both in Turkey and internationally.

This year’s keynote Cem Özdemir was a leading force behind the German Parliament’s June 2016 resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide and acknowledging German responsibility in not preventing the genocide committed by Ottoman Turkey—Germany’s WWI ally. Born in Bad Urach, West Germany, Özdemir is ethnically Turkish—his family emigrated from Turkey to Germany as “guest workers.”

Özdemir delivered a passionate speech in the Bundestag prior to the Armenian Genocide vote, during which he directly addressed the Armenian guests attending the Bundestag’s session: “Just because we were complicit in this horrible crime in the past does not mean that we are going to side with the deniers today.” During that speech, Özdemir also quoted his good friend Hrant Dink: “If Armenians lived in Van today, that city would be the Paris of the Orient.”

“Despite all the risks and consequences, Özdemir and his parliamentarian colleagues defended and passed the resolution. He was Hrant’s good friend,” Bedrosyan explained.

Before introducing Ozdemir to audiences, Bedrosyan will present Wolfgang Gust’s book Armenian Genocide: Evidence from German Archives.  “He and his German parliamentarian colleagues were greatly influenced by the German historian’s book, which was financed by the Zoryan Institute of Toronto,” Bedrosyan said.

The Zoryan Institute partnered with Gust to collect, translate, and restore thousands of historical documents from the German Foreign Office Archives that reveal details about Ottoman policy during the Armenian Genocide. Zoryan also assisted in the translation, editing, and publishing of the book in English, Turkish, and German. A representative of the Zoryan Institute will contextualize the historical meaning of Hrant Dink’s murder during the commemoration event in Toronto.

In his keynote addresses, Özdemir will explain Hrant’s role in his decision to get involved in the Armenian Genocide resolution, and his journey as one of the most prominent human rights advocates in Europe.

“These commemorations and—more critically—the German Armenian Genocide recognition resolution, demonstrate that the genocide issue is not a historical issue of the past; not just something that happened a hundred years ago. It is, indeed, a current issue, deeply affecting relations between different peoples and different states, sometimes with serious consequences,” Bedrosyan said.

The commemoration events will take place in Montreal on Jan. 21, at 8 p.m. at the Montreal Armenian Community Center, Homenetmen “Gamk” Hall, and in Toronto on Jan. 22, at 3 p.m. at the Armenian Community Center of Toronto.

The events are organized by the Bolsahay Cultural Association, the Hamazkayin Cultrual and Educational Society, the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), the Nor Serount Cultural Association, the Armenian Association of Toronto, the Canada-Armenia Business Council, the Tekeyan Cultural Association, and the Mekhitarian Alumni Association.

MONTREAL, Canada (Horizon)—Knar Yemenidjian, who was believed to be the last Armenian Genocide survivor in Canada, passed away in Montreal on Jan. 19, just short of her 108^th birthday.

Knar Yemenidjian (Photo: René Saint-Louis)

Yemenidjian(née Bohjelian) was born in Ottoman Kayseri in 1909. When the massacres and the assault on Kayseri began, she and her family sought refuge in a barn for a few months. Her family was then deported.

Following a governmental decree and with their grandmother’s backing, Bohjelian’s family was forced to Turkify themselves in order to survive. Subsequently, Bohjelian and her entire family bore Turkish names.

Once a cease-fire was announced, her parents decided to flee the region. In 1928, they travelled to Ankara, then Istanbul. After staying there for 11 months, they made their way to Greece by boat and two days later, arrived in Alexandria, Egypt.

Bohjelian got married and lived in Egypt for over 40 years before moving to Montreal in 1971 with her family.

The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) mourned the passing of Yemenidjian and expresses its deepest condolences to her family in a short statement on its official Facebook page. The ANCC also said that it will release a more thorough statement shortly.

On Sept. 26, another one of Canada’s last survivors of the Armenian Genocide Keghetsik Hagopian-Zourikian, passed away in Montreal at age 107.

Commemoration Attended by Premier of Ontario, Several Elected Officials, and Award-Winning Filmmaker Atom Egoyan

TORONTO, Canada—Over 600 people gathered at the Armenian Community Center of Toronto on Jan. 22, to commemorate the 10^th anniversary of the assassination of prominent Turkish-Armenian journalist and Editor-in-Chief of the bilingual Agos newspaper, Hrant Dink.

Özdemir delivering his keynote speech honoring Hrant Dink and his legacy. (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

The keynote speaker Cem Özdemir—a German parliamentarian of Turkish descent and the current co-chair of the German Greens Alliance Party—spearheaded the resolution in the German Bundestag to formally classify the 1915-1923 massacres of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire as genocide.

Prominent politicians, diplomats, and public figures were also in attendance for the commemoration, including the Premier of Ontario, the Honorable Kathleen Wynne; German Consul General Peter Fahrenholtz; famed Canadian-Armenian filmmaker Atom Egoyan; as well as local members of the Canadian Parliament and Ontario Legislature.

Özdemir delivering his keynote speech (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

In his keynote address, Özdemir spoke of Hrant Dink’s bravery and his continued legacy.

“Because of Hrant, Armenians in Turkey talk about the Armenian Genocide. Because of Hrant, Turks who have never heard about the Armenian Genocide talk about the Armenian Genocide. People afterwards started to question what they had learned,” said Özdemir.

Furthermore, Özdemir revisited throughout his address the theme of reconciliation between Armenia and Turkey, and realized the importance of Turkish society embracing the ethnic and religious minorities of their country to allow for this. A significant change, he opined, would be for Turks to disavow the masterminds of the Genocide, who are revered to this day by some for being leaders of the once-powerful Ottoman Empire, despite the fact they oversaw the murder of their own citizens through genocide.

“You have children, I have children and we want our children to be good people and good citizens. Christian, Jew, Muslim, or Atheist—whatever we are—we want that. So when you talk to your children, do you not talk about role models, and people you want your children to look up to and maybe take them as examples? I don’t tell my children follow the path of people that betrayed their neighbors… So I ask you: who is a better Muslim, one who looks aside when Armenians are killed, or the one that says ‘attacking an Armenian is like attacking me? Killing them is like killing me,’” said Özdemir when recounting his discussion with a group at a Turkish mosque in Berlin.

Özdemir thanked the Zoryan Institute, as he credited his and other German lawmaker’s motivation to pursue an Armenian Genocide resolution mainly to the study of their publication of The Armenian Genocide: Evidence from the German Foreign Office Archives, 1915-1916, a compilation of 240 primary documents related to German knowledge and complicity of the genocide at the time. Zoryan also prepared a contextual, audio-visual presentation for the event that was presented by the event’s Master of Ceremonies, Raffi Bedrosyan, which explained the historical context of the murder and subsequent cover-up to protect those responsible.

“The objective of today’s event is not only to commemorate Hrant Dink, but to reaffirm our commitment to continue Hrant Dink’s mission for reconciliation among people with different ethnicities, cultures, and religions, particularly among Armenians and Turks,” remarked Bedrosyan.

In her speech to attendees, Premier Wynne expressed her gratitude to Özdemir for being present and the need for continued discussion about the Armenian Genocide.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne welcomes Özdemir and speaks about the importance of continuing Hrant Dink’s work for genocide recognition. (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

“I wanted to be here today to honor Hrant Dink. Even though it’s been over 100 years since the Armenian Genocide began, the passage of the century has not dulled the horrors of those events. As we remember Hrant Dink, we also remember those Armenians who perished,” said Wynne.

The distinguished guests (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

Zohrab Sarkissian, the Chair of the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Toronto, commented that Dink continues to serve as an example for activism on issues that beleaguer society today. “Today, Dink has become an exemplary icon of freedom and human rights activism in Turkey,  across Europe, and across the world. Dink’s memory serves as a constant reminder for intellectuals, activists and the wider public to challenge prejudice and division among people, such as the rising tide of intolerant nationalism in Turkey.”

Özdemir delivered the keynote address at a Hrant Dink commemoration in at the Armenian Community Center of Montreal a day earlier, on Jan. 21.

Members of the ANC of Toronto with politicians Arnold Chan, Shaun Chen, and Soo Wong, and keynote speaker Cem Özdemir (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

Dink was assassinated on Jan. 19, 2007, in front of his newspaper’s office in Istanbul, triggering an unprecedented surge of solidarity and pro-democracy activism in Turkey after more than 100,000 people attended his funeral. Hrant Dink’s assassination is now memorialized in the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg.

Members of the ANC of Toronto meeting with Premier Kathleen Wynne (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

TORONTO, Canada—“Without Hrant, I would not be here. Without Hrant, a lot of Armenians in Turkey—believe me—would not talk about the [Armenian] Genocide.  Without Hrant, a lot people of Turkish origin would have never heard about the genocide. And without Hrant, the German Bundestag would have probably never passed the genocide resolution,” Cem Özdemir, Co-Chair of the Green Party of Germany, said at the 10th anniversary commemorations of Hrant Dink’s assassination in Canada.

Özdemir delivering his keynote speech in Toronto (Photo: Harout Kassabian)

Armenian political, cultural, religious, business, philanthropic, and academic organizations of Toronto and Montreal gathered together to commemorate Hrant Dink and remember his immense contributions to human rights on Jan. 21 and 22.

The Zoryan Institute of Canada prepared the contextual, audio-visual presentation celebrating Hrant Dink’s life, featuring the events leading to his murder and the significance of his loss to the cause of human rights worldwide. On this occasion, Özdemir and his colleague, Dr. Henriette Rytz, traveled from Berlin for the event to express their solidarity with the principles advocated by Dink.

Özdemir was one of the champions of Germany’s parliamentary resolution that recognizes the 1915 mass murder of Armenians as genocide and accepted its complicity in the crime, in collaboration with the Ottoman Turks.

Also on this occasion, Hrant Dink’s widow, Mrs. Rakel Dink, sent a special video message of appreciation to the audience and Mr. Özdemir himself.

“I would like to salute all of you with my most sincere thanks, love and yearning. I would like to thank all the organizers, participants and the ones who made the efforts to realize such an event in Unity. During the past ten years, communities and human rights activists worldwide come together to combat discrimination and strengthen their power. My special thanks to Cem Özdemir who is among you today,” Dink said in her message.

Megan Reid, Zoryan Institute’s Outreach Coordinator, opened the Toronto event by welcoming the German delegation headed by  Özdemir and revealed the relationship between the Institute and Hrant Dink. “The Zoryan Institute shares the values promoted by Hrant Dink who understood that true peace can be achieved only if Turks and Armenians can speak openly about their past,” she said.

Raffi Bedrosyan, the initiator of the program and Special Advisor to the Zoryan Institute on Turkish Affairs, was the moderator of the event and summarized the meaning of the commemoration. “The objective of today’s event is not only to commemorate Hrant Dink, but to reaffirm our commitment to continue Hrant Dink’s mission for reconciliation among people with different ethnicities, cultures and religions, particularly among Armenians and Turks,” said Bedrosyan.

He further explained how Dink, the founder and editor-in-chief of Agos, aimed to eliminate all stereotypes, hatred, and discrimination against minorities in Turkey. To demonstrate the type of hatred promoted by Turkish officials at the highest level, he shared a part of a speech by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the President of Turkey, who complained about people calling him “…even uglier things… an Armenian.”

Özdemir, the keynote speaker and a close friend of Dink’s, gave a heartfelt speech about why he came to this event and why the German Bundestag passed the resolution. “We [the Germans] should also talk about our involvement. We were eye witnesses, our diplomats, missionaries, knew exactly what was happening. They told us precisely and thanks to Mr. Wolfgang Gust, his wife, and the Zoryan Institute, all of this is documented,” said Özdemir.

The Zoryan Institute partnered with Gust to collect, translate, and restore thousands of historical documents from the German Foreign Office Archives that reveal details about Ottoman policy during the Armenian Genocide. Zoryan also assisted in the translation, editing, and publishing of the book The Armenian Genocide: Evidence from German Archives, 1915-1916, in English, Turkish, and German.

Özdemir explained the importance of talking about German guilt and German responsibility. “That is why we talked about the responsibility of Germany, to do everything we can do… and of course the European Union too… That those two countries [Armenia and Turkey] that Hrant loved so much, that one day they have an open border and it is as easy to go from Armenia to Turkey and from Turkey to Armenia,” he said.

“If we have the chance to hear the other side of the story, even if they may be brainwashed, I am sure they will start to ask questions. That is the start for change and rethinking,” Özdemir later stated, adding, “trust the Zoryan Institute… trust what your fathers, mothers, and grandparents told you.  Nobody can neglect that and nobody can take that away.”

He closed his speak with a heartfelt message of gratitude to Dink: “I want to use this opportunity to thank Hrant and say how much I miss him. I am sure you all miss him too.”

OTTAWA, Canada—On Feb. 13, Dr. Oleg Kravchenko, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, delivered a lecture entitled “Belarus and its Neighbors,” at Carleton University’s Dunton Tower in Ottawa. Along with a significant number of Diplomatic representatives from various CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, academics from the Carleton University’s Institute of European, Russian and Eurasian Studies (EURUS), analysts and students, representatives from the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) and the Armenian Students’ Association (ASA) of Ottawa were also present at the event.

(L to R) ANCC’s Sevag Belian and Deputy Minister Kravchenko (Photo: ANCC)

A Q&A was held after the lecture during, during which Canadian-Armenian students and the ANCC’s Executive Director Sevag Belian asked a barrage of questions to Kravchenko, in regards to Israeli-Russian blogger Alexander Lapshin’s extradition from Belarus to Azerbaijan, as well as human rights violations in Belarus. According to the ANCC, Kravchenko became perplexed and gave contradicting answers to these queries.

During his lecture, Kravchenko drew similarities between Canada and Belarus. To the remark made by an ASA member that Canada is a democratic state, whereas the president of Belarus has ruled the country in an autocratic manner for more than 20 years, the Kravchenko responded by saying that there are no flawless countries.

Kravchenko was in Canada pushing for better relations between Minsk and Ottawa. He was, however, caught off guard when he was asked to answer questions regarding the Lapshin case. “During a one-on-one conversation with ANCC’s Belian, the Deputy Minister claimed that he had minimal information about the extradition, clearly indicating his discomfort to discuss such a disgraceful act by his country that has put the value of political expediency higher than freedom and human rights,” read a part of the statement released by the ANCC.

Lapshin, who holds a dual citizenship from Russia and Israel, is an active journalist and blogger who has visited the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabagh /NKR) and the Republic of Azerbaijan on multiple occasions. Through his independent reporting, Lapshin has supported the native Armenian populations’ call for self-determination and independence in Artsakh and has vehemently criticized the Azerbaijani government’s dictatorial tendencies in the region.

Lapshin has been accused of trumped up charges of insulting president Aliyev of Azerbaijan and for visiting the Republic of Artsakh. He was extradited to Baku on Feb. 7 and arrested upon arrival.

OTTAWA, Canada—Despite continuous efforts by Azerbaijani authorities to discourage foreign diplomats, parliamentarians, and observers from visiting the Republic of Nagorno-Karabagh (NKR/Artsakh), former Canadian parliamentarian, the Honorable Jim Karygiannis, will serve as an international observer in the republic’s constitutional referendum that is set to be held on Feb. 20, reported the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC).

Jim Karygiannis

A long-time supporter of Artsakh’s independence and its people’s right to self-determination, Karygiannis will be visiting Artsakh at the request of the ANCC. Previously and as recent as 2012, Karygiannis led a team of Canadian election observers for the NKR presidential elections.

“It was a picture-perfect election from start to finish and witnessing the election process in a new democracy was a positive learning experience,” Karygiannis said in a statement following the 2012 elections. “I also met with government officials, residents of Nagorno-Karabagh and members of the Canadian Diaspora who were visiting and learned more about the challenges facing Artsakh,” Karygiannis added.

A historically undisputed Armenian land that has a history of over 5,000 years, Artsakh was gifted to Azerbaijan in 1921 by Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. At the wake of the Soviet Union’s decline in power, on Sept. 2, 1991, the people of Artsakh declared independence from the Soviet Union and established the Republic of Nagorno-Karabagh. On Dec. 10, 1991, Artsakh held an independence referendum in which 99% voted for independence. In response, Azerbaijan launched an all-out war against the newly formed republic, targeting ordinary civilians.

Despite the Internationally brokered ceasefire in 1994, Azerbaijan has steadily violated the terms and conditions of the bilateral agreement, and on multiple occasions, it has carried out unsanctioned attacks against Artsakh.

In spite of all the hardships that are prevalent today, for the past 25 years, Artsakh has stood as a beacon of democracy, freedom and development. While breaking new grounds economically, socially and politically, it has continued to maintain a world-renowned reputation in advancing its commitment to peace, stability and prosperity in the South Caucasian region.

“Karygiannis’ timely visit to Artsakh is yet another indication that the young republic is a democratic and a fully functioning state, with a thriving market economy and an active civil society, that is striving to achieve its freedom and the formal recognition of its independence,’ read a part of a statement released by the ANCC.

Two Ontario Teachers and Four Students Receive Corning Center Awards

TORONTO, Canada—On Feb. 25, the Corning Center (The Sara Corning Center for Genocide Education) introduced Bared Maronian’s inspiring and powerful documentary, Women of 1915 for the second time at the Hamazkayin Toronto Pomegranate Film Festival Committee’s special encore presentation in benefit of the A.R.S. Armenian School annual Telethon. The screening took place at the Armenian Youth Center’s Hamazkayin Theater.

A scene from the award ceremony (Photo: Corning Center)

“The documentary you are about to see is very unique as was Bared Maronian’s previous documentary, Orphans of the Genocide. Both left audiences worldwide with knowledge they would not have otherwise come across and a high level of curiosity, prompting one to dig deeper and learn more,” said Corning Center Founder and Chair Raffi Sarkissian in his introduction. “Bared’s creations embody every aspect of an excellent documentary. Therefore, it is no coincidence that he has received many honours and awards,” Sarkissian added.

The Corning Center is dedicated to promoting and providing ongoing research and education in the fields of human rights and genocide education. The Center’s educational initiatives focus on developing teacher training and workshop opportunities, program development for schools, classroom visits, public lectures and presentations and the development of resources for teachers and students.

At the event, the Corning Center’s Director of Finance, Paul Ternamian, presented the Speak Out contest to the audience and invited the awardees to stage. Director Bared Maronian joined the Corning Centre on stage to present the awardees with their certificates and awards. On the occasion of the 100^th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the Corning Centre held an Essay and Creative Writing Contest called Speak Out. The contest was open to all senior level high school students in Ontario, awarding a first place prize in each category of $500 and a runner prize of $100.

This year’s winners represented two schools from two school boards. Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in the Waterloo Region District School Board and Sir Allan Macnab Secondary in the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board.

The students who won this year were fortunate to have had exemplary teachers who attended the event, both of whom have worked with the Corning Centre in the past.

The Corning Center recognized the two outstanding Ontario teachers for their commitment to genocide education, Erin Ledlow from Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in the Waterloo Region District School Board and Deborah Brown from Sir Allan Macnab Secondary in the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board.

The Corning Center gifted the two teachers with a copy of Aram Adjemian’s A Call From Armenia: Canada’s Response to the Armenian Genocide, and Bared Maronian’s two films on DVD Orphans of the Genocide and Women of 1915.

The Corning Centre awarded prizes to their students whose works were chosen for first and second places for the centre’s Speak Out Contest: Gabriella Zepeda Ayala (first place)  and Nate Skeen (second place) and the winners of the creative writing contest, Casey Monkelbaan (first place) and Lareb Zahra (second place).

“Education is the most effective means to equip every new generation with the knowledge and skills needed to become positive contributors in society and agents of change. The grade 11 Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity Course has been doing just this thanks to dedicated teachers like Erin and Deborah,” Ternamian concluded.

TORONTO, Canada—Former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans and Gomidas Institute director Ara Sarafian, will be in Toronto on March 12 for the book launch of Evans’ book Truth Held Hostage.

The event will take place on March 12.

The event will consist a reading of excerpts, Evans’ reflections as a former U.S. diplomat to Armenia and his motivation for writing the book, followed by a moderation discussion with Evans and Sarafian.​

Truth Held Hostage chronicles Evans’ diplomatic career, his growing experience with Armenians and the Armenian Genocide recognition issue, his eventual decision to publicly use the term “genocide” that led to his dismissal, and how he believes the U.S., Turkey, Armenia, and the international community need to move forward. The book was published by the Gomidas Institute in 2016.

A veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service, Ambassador John Evans gained notoriety in 2005 by publicly dissenting from the stated policy of the Bush and previous administrations on the 90-year-old issue of the Armenian Genocide and using the term “genocide.” He was dismissed from his post as a result and forced into early retirement, although not without a fight over the issue in the U.S. Congress.

The event is organized by the Armenian National Committee of Toronto (ANCT) and the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society “Klatsor” chapter.

Born in Virginia, Evans studied Russian history at Yale University and later pursued his doctoral studies at Columbia University before serving for the US foreign service in various capacities in Iran, Czechoslovakia, the former Soviet Union, and with NATO from 1972 to 1989. He then served as Deputy Chief of Mission in Prague (1991-94), and as Consul General in St. Petersburg (1994-97). He was then chosen to lead the OSCE Mission to Moldova, an international mediation and peace-keeping mission, during the Danish, Polish and Norwegian OSCE chairmanships (1997-99). On June 25, 2004, he was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and was sworn-in as the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia on Aug. 11, 2004. He served within that capacity until he was dismissed in 2006, due to his explicit support for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Sarafian is the founding director of the Gomidas Institute in London, which sponsors and carries out research and publishes books on modern Armenian and regional studies. Among the institute’s book publications are English translations of Armenian texts related to the Armenian Genocide. Additionally, Sarafian has published Talaat Pasha’s report on the Armenian Genocide and he has edited a critical edition of The Treatment of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire, 1915-1916, commonly known as the Blue Book (originally published in 1916 by British historians Lord James Bryce and Arnold Toynbee), as well as a Turkish edition of the book. He has also collaborated with the Hrant Dink Foundation.

TORONTO, Canada—John Evans, former United States Ambassador to Armenia, and Ara Sarafian, Director of the Gomidas Institute, presented “Truth Held Hostage: America and the Armenian Genocide – What Then? What Now?” in Toronto on March 12. The book Truth Held Hostage was written by Evans and published by the Gomidas Institute in 2016.

(L to R) Zohrab Sarkissian, John Evans, and Ara Sarafian during discussion panel (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

Over 250 people attended the event including Berdj Sevazlian, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Toronto; Jean Yip, representing the President of the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group Member of Parliament (MP) Arnold Chan; MP Bob Saroya; and Toronto City Councilor Shelley Carroll, for Don Valley East.

The program was structured as a panel interview between Evans, Sarafian, and moderator Zohrab Sarkissian, Chairof the Armenian National Committee of Toronto (ANCT). They discussed Evans’ experiences as the former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia and discovering the taboo subject of the Armenian Genocide with the State Department; the importance of writing and publishing the book; and commented on current international relations as they relate to the politics of Armenian Genocide recognition.

A veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service, Evans gained notoriety in 2005 by publicly dissenting from the stated policy of the Bush and previous Administrations and using the term “genocide” to describe the Armenian Genocide. He was dismissed from his post as a result.

During the discussion, Evans spoke about his decision to speak truthfully about the Armenian Genocide during his ambassadorship as vital since it is a well-established historical fact, and as a U.S. official, he could not deceive the citizens of the country he served. His eventual divergence from State Department policy created an “awkward” situation for them, noted Evans, as he did not immediately resign to minimize the ensuing fallout with Turkey and resulting public awareness.

John Evans and Ara Sarafian receive recognition by the Armenian National Committee of Toronto for their continued dedication to pursuing truth, justice and recognition for the Armenian Genocide. (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

“It made it awkward for Washington, it was awkward for me, it was awkward for my deputy, it was awkward for the Turks, so that’s why I did it,” reflected Evans.

Evans remarked the global community has to join the 24 countries that have already recognized the Armenian Genocide to encourage discussion of the issue and acceptance within Turkey.

Sarafian discussed the importance of publishing books such as Truth Held Hostage, commenting that the Gomidas Institute is an academic institution, and as such, research and publish volumes vital to educating and promoting to the public issues of importance to Armenians, including the Armenian Genocide.

He also stressed the importance of promoting democracy in Turkey to allow for education and necessary discourse on the Armenian Genocide to take place.

“Democracy in Turkey—it does matter, because if Turkey becomes a democratic state, it allows us to engage Turkish populations [on the Armenian Genocide], and ultimately, that’s the best peaceful way of getting our message across there,” said Sarafian.

“The truth cannot be held hostage,” Sarkissian concluded on behalf of the ANCT, “and the courageous and dedicated work of John Evans and Ara Sarafian must be emulated by all those who are in the position to challenge injustices and unfair political influences.”

The event’s guests with artwork prints donated by Toronto-Armenian artist Gerard Paraghamian (far left) to the ANCT (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

The event was organized by the Armenian National Committee of Toronto and Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society “Klatsor” chapter.

The ANCT is a chapter of the Armenian National Committee of Canada, the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCT actively advances the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues and works to eliminate abuses of human rights throughout Canada and the world.

OTTAWA, Canada— On April 3, The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), launched a media campaign entitled “Turkey: Thirty Days of Shame” aimed at informing Canadians about Turkey’s continuous denial of the Armenian Genocide, while highlighting its blatant and consistent abuse of human rights, descent to autocracy, and rising threat to regional and global peace.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

For the entire month of April, every weekday the ANCC will post one article, video, or human rights report highlighting Turkey’s continuing disrespect for human rights and its ruling regime’s efforts to gloss over its gross violations with slick propaganda, political bullying, and misinformation.

“Day by day, through the media and other sources, Canadians are becoming more familiar with the true face of the state of Turkey. It’s dismal human rights record, disregard to democracy and the rule of law and its state-sponsored policies of political intimidation and discrimination have become defining characteristics of Recep Tayip Erdogan’s regime, urging the international community to reconsider its policies towards Turkey” stated ANCC president Shahen Mirakian.

The daily postings will be made on the ANCC website, the ANCC Facebook page and on the ANCC Twitter page.

Postings will follow particular themes that, amongst others, will include political freedoms; freedom of speech and expression; President Erdogan’s corrupt regime, and; Turkey’s continuous denial of the Armenian Genocide.

The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues and works to eliminate abuses of human rights throughout Canada and the world.

OTTAWA, Canada—On April 21, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement on the occasion of the 102^nd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Then-MP Trudeau participating in the ‘March for Humanity’ in Montreal in May 2015 (Photo: Justin Trudeau/Twitter)

The statement can be read below in its entirety.

***

On this day, we solemnly gather to commemorate the tragic loss of life among the Armenian population, which took place more than a century ago.

In 2015, the House of Commons unanimously passed a motion declaring April 24th as Armenian Genocide Memorial Day

This day honors the memory of those who unjustly lost their lives and suffered during the genocide. We pay tribute to them and their descendants, many of who now reside in Canada.

On this occasion, Canadians—regardless of faith or ethnic background—stand together in solemn remembrance and reaffirmed dedication to ensuring that we never stand indifferently in the face of hate or violence in any form.

As we observe Armenian Genocide Memorial Day, please join me in my hope for a future characterized by peace and mutual respect.

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada

OTTAWA, Canada—Thousands of Canadians from across the country gathered in Ottawa on April 24 to commemorate the 102nd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and demonstrate against the Government of Turkey’s ongoing denial of the crime, the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) reported.

Thousands of Canadians from across the country gathered in Ottawa on April 24 to commemorate the 102nd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and demonstrate against the Government of Turkey’s ongoing denial of the crime (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian/Horizon Weekly)

The demonstrators first gathered at the steps of Parliament Hill, where they thanked the Canadian government for its ongoing recognition of the facts of 1915, and called upon the government to exert pressure on its NATO ally, Turkey, to come to terms with its past and to put an end to its ongoing policy of Genocide denial.

Following the official ceremony on Parliament Hill, the demonstrators ceremoniously marched via Rideau St. to the Embassy of Turkey where they staged a peaceful demonstration against Turkey’s ongoing denial policies and human rights violations, demanding justice for the 1.5 million victims of the Armenian Genocide.

“One hundred and two years have passed since the start of the Armenian Genocide, the first genocide of the 20th century. Through the efforts of the Turkish government, the crime has gone unpunished. The families of victims have not been compensated and virtually all Armenian material, cultural, and religious wealth, and all remnants of the flourishing indigenous Armenian civilization of thousands of years remains confiscated or ruined in Turkey,” read a part of the ANCC’s statement.

Every year on April 24, millions of Armenians and non-Armenians from around the world stand in unison to demand their rights and to obtain condemnation of the crimes that were perpetrated against them by the Ottoman Turkish government. Despite Turkey’s efforts to obstruct progress toward a truthful and just international resolution of this crime, numerous countries and international organizations, including Canada have recognized the events of 1915 as nothing but a genocide.

“A century has passed but activists will gather once again to reiterate their commitment to this humanitarian cause and to continue their struggle until justice is fully served,” concluded the statement.

The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues and works to eliminate abuses of human rights throughout Canada and the world.

TORONTO, Canada—Over 180 students and teachers from three school boards and four schools attended the Corning Center’s 2017 Ontario Student Conference titled “Armenian Genocide: A Just Resolution.” The event was held in Genocide Remembrance, Condemnation, and Prevention Month and on the official remembrance day of the Armenian Genocide, April 24.

Over 180 students and teachers from three school boards and four schools attended the Corning Center’s 2017 Ontario Student Conference titled ‘Armenian Genocide: A Just Resolution.’

The students had the opportunity to hear from our keynote speaker Professor Henry C. Theriault, Professor and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Worcester Sate University.  Theriault’s expertise is focused on Genocide and Human Rights studies, and he is the chair of the Armenian Genocide Reparations Study Group. The study group published their report in 2015 titled “Resolution with Justice: Reparations for the Armenian Genocide.”

Prof. Theriault focused on the five components of justice (recognition, responsibility, reparations, rehabilitation and reconstitution) and provided a wide range of examples from various cases of genocides and atrocities. This allowed the students to have a firm understanding of what justice entails and prepared them for the workshops.

Professor Henry C. Theriault addressing conference attendees

The students then attended the workshops on the five components of justice, which was developed by Corning Center teachers based on the Armenian Genocide Reparations Study Group’s report “Resolution with Justice: Reparations for the Armenian Genocide”. During the workshops, the Grade 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to engage with a variety of documents under each component of justice (recognition, responsibility, reparations, rehabilitation and reconstitution). In groups, students shared their understanding of these documents and together discussed their significance. The documents consisted of information on private, institutional and national reparations, legal and educational barriers to social transformation in Turkey, the 1919 Turkish Military Trials, primary documents from 1915-1923, etc.

Tenth grade students participated in a presentation on Canada and the Armenian Genocide and had an opportunity to view the Corning Centre’s exhibit on the Georgetown Armenian Boys and Canadian Upstanders in the Ottoman Empire on the occasion of Canada’s 150th anniversary. We were fortunate to also have on display sculptor Taline Iskedjian’s unique piece “Journey of Hope” which is dedicated to the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide and represents the past and the future of the Armenian nation.

After reconvening in the auditorium, several students had an opportunity to share their thoughts and reflections from the day with all the attendees in the auditorium.  Inspired by the conference, the students shared powerful messages of the need to defend human rights and prevent future genocides. Students had the opportunity to ask Prof. Theriault questions in light of the content they worked with in their respective workshops.

After the concluding remarks, the conference attendees visited the Armenian Genocide Revival Monument (by sculptor Arto Tchakmaktchian), to lay carnations.

Inspired by the recent film The Promise and the role it not only plays to educate about the Armenian Genocide but also its wider humanitarian and philanthropic role, students posted their own promises under the hashtag #keepthepromise.

After the concluding remarks, the conference attendees visited the Armenian Genocide Revival Monument (by sculptor Arto Tchakmaktchian), to lay carnations.

On this occasion, Corning Center Founder and Chair, Raffi Sarkissian stated, “Through this conference, our centre’s goal was to highlight for students the role justice plays in securing a positive future for victim groups and preventing future atrocities internationally. Moreover, we wanted the students to reflect on their responsibilities as Canadian citizens in becoming moral agents and become empowered to defending collective rights.”

TORONTO, Canada— Armenian Member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Garo Paylan was honored at an event at the Armenian Community Center of Toronto on April 30, where more than 1,500 community members gathered to greet the Parliamentarian, reported the Armenian National Committee of Toronto (ANCT).

The crowd gathered to welcome civil Parliamentarian Garo Paylan in Toronto (Photo: ANCT)

The event was sponsored by the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) and organized by a joint Toronto-Armenian organizing committee comprised of the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, Armenian Evangelical Church of Toronto, St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church and the St. Gregory Armenian Catholic Church of Toronto along with the Bolsahay Armenian Cultural Association, the Nor Serount Cultural Association, and the ANCT.

Garo Paylan, member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, addressing the Toronto-Armenian community (Photo: ANCT)

Representatives of the major Armenian organizations including: the aforementioned organizing bodies along with the Zoryan Institute, Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), Armenian Relief Society (ARS), Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) of Canada, Armenian Seniors Organization of Toronto, Homenetmen, and the Hamazkayin Armenian Cultural and Educational Society were present. Also present was Raffi Bedrosyan, a lead organizer of the Surp Giragos Diyarbakir Church reconstruction project in Turkey.

The community gathered in front of the Armenian Genocide monument with Paylan (Photo: ANCT)

Representing the Toronto Kurdish and Assyrian communities were the Toronto Kurdish Community Center and the Centre for Canadian-Assyrian relations respectively.

The event started with a short video presentation highlighting Garo Paylan’s civic activism over the past few years. Sevag Belian, Executive-Director of the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), then took the stage to present the organizing committee message and introduce Paylan. Belian commended Paylan’s ongoing pursuit for equality, justice, and democratic values, proclaiming: “Mr. Paylan, your actions are humbling and inspiring. An inspiration that with it displays a tenacity that forces one to fully appreciate the true meaning of our struggle for justice and democracy.”

Paylan and the President of the Armenian Community Center of Toronto, Mr. Hagop Janbazian placing a wreath at the Armenian Genocide Monument (Photo: ANCT)

Paylan took the stage to great applause and appreciation. The Parliamentarian provided an overview of the current political climate in Turkey, the aftermath of the constitutional referendum and the ongoing uncertainty and concern regarding the rights and freedoms of the minorities living in Turkey. He stressed the importance of acknowledging history, specifically in regards to the Armenian Genocide, stating, “unpunished crimes lead to new crimes.”

Community leaders, dignitaries and representatives of the Toronto Armenian and Kurdish organizations gathered with Paylan (Photo: ANCT)

Furthermore, Paylan highlighted the importance of maintaining and upholding the values of democracy, tolerance, respect, and human rights in the Republic of Turkey and around the world.

The attendees had the opportunity ask question after which, Belian invited the President of the Armenian Community Centre of Toronto to present Paylan with two gifts on behalf of the joint organizing committee: Aram Adjemian’s The Call from Armenia, Canada’s Response to the Armenian Genocide reference publication and renowned Canadian-Armenian Kaloust Babian’s photography retrospective.

Hagop Janbazian, President of the Armenian Community Center of Toronto, presenting a gift of to Mr. Garo Paylan on behalf of the joint Toronto-Armenian organizing committee

“Paylan’s presence and exceptional remarks were an inspiration to the entire community and particularly to the upcoming generations who vowed to carry on the torch in the collective struggle of the Armenian people around the world,” read a part of the statement released by the ANCT.

Garo Paylan is a founding member of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and is a deputy representing the third district in Istanbul. He is a member of Turkey’s Armenian community and has long been an activist on human rights, freedom of speech, minority rights—particularly Kurdish and Armenian issues, including the Hrant Dink murder case.

OTTAWA, Canada—On May 2, Armenian Member of Turkish Parliament and a founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (HDP) Garo Paylan held a series of meetings in Ottawa and Montreal with Members of Parliament and various current and former Canadian officials, the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) reported.

On May 2, Garo Paylan held a series of meetings in Ottawa and Montreal with Members of Parliament and various current and former Canadian officials. (Photo: ANCC)

After a brief meeting with Turkish and Kurdish academics and recent exiles from Turkey, Paylan was hosted on Parliament Hill by Member of Parliament Arnold Chan of Scarborough-Agincourt, where he met a large group Parliamentarians representing various political parties.

During his meetings, Paylan had the opportunity to provide an overview of the current political climate in Turkey, the aftermath of the constitutional referendum, and the ongoing uncertainty and concern regarding the rights and freedoms of minorities living in Turkey. Paylan also urged Canadian Parliamentarians to raise awareness about the current situation in Turkey and play a pivotal role in ensuring that our shared values of justice, democracy, equality, and human rights are upheld in the Republic of Turkey and around the world.

During his meetings, Paylan had the opportunity to provide an overview of the current political climate in Turkey, the aftermath of the constitutional referendum, and the ongoing uncertainty and concern regarding the rights and freedoms of minorities living in Turkey. (Photo: ANCC)

Later during the day, Paylan also had the opportunity to meet Canada’s former Minister of Justice and Attorney General and current head of the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights, the Honorable Irwin Cotler, where similar issues were raised and discussed.

On April 30 and May 1, thousands of activists and community members from Canada’s Armenian, Assyrian and Kurdish communities gathered in Toronto and Montreal respectively, at special community events featuring Paylan. At both events, Paylan was welcomed with standing ovations. During the events, he stressed the importance of acknowledging history, specifically in regards to the Armenian Genocide, stating, “unpunished crimes lead to new crimes.”

Mr. Hagop Der Khatchadourian, President of the Armenian National Committee–International Council, who was accompanying Garo Paylan in his Ottawa meetings stated: “After tremendously successful community events in Toronto and Montreal, Mr. Paylan urged the Canadian political representatives, at the legislative and executive levels, to not be simple bystanders to Turkey’s downward spiral towards full dictatorship. He expected Canada to play the active role of an unbiased mediator, protector of minorities and proponent of true democracy and diversity.”

Paylan with Member of Parliament Arnold Chan of Scarborough-Agincourt (Photo: ANCC)

“Many politicians admired Mr. Paylan’s principled and forceful stance and expressed concern for his safety. As a committed advocate of justice and human rights and despite the risks, Garo refuses to stay silent or succumb to the fear-mongering of President Erdogan and his cohorts. Mr. Paylan is a true worldwide symbol of courage and determination, and not just for Armenians,” added Der Khatchadourian.

The ANCC praised Paylan’s courage and highlighted the significance of his visit to Canada in a statement released on May 4. “Mr. Paylan’s presence and exceptional remarks were an inspiration to the entire community and particularly to the upcoming generations who vowed to carry on the torch in the collective struggle of the Armenian people around the world… his appeal goes beyond just the Armenians; hence, many Kurds, Assyrians and representatives of other ethnocultural communities attended the events as well,” read a part of the ANCC statement.

Prior to joining the parliament, Paylan served in the central committee of the HDP and also served on the management board of the Armenian schools in Istanbul.

Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest Takes Place July 7, 8, and 9, on the Grounds of the Armenian Youth Center in Toronto

TORONTO, Canada (A.W.)—Music, dance, food, and language are just some of the elements that keep a culture alive. Living in the diaspora, we cling to these elements to foster and cultivate traditions and to help connect us to the homeland.  If the essence of culture lies in its interpretations, values, and perspectives, then the essence of the Toronto-Armenian community lies in the Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest.

Music, dance, food, and language are just some of the elements that keep a culture alive. (Photo: Shantimix Productions)

Over the past 21 years, the Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest has successfully become a manifestation of the Armenian Diaspora in Toronto. The festival exists and continues to thrive by connecting its audience to the homeland through current music, dance, cuisine, and language.

A tradition rooted in the Armenian community of Toronto, Summerfest provides its patrons with one of the best Armenian cultural festivals in North America. Over the past 20 years, the festival has evolved from its humble beginnings and has become a musical hot-spot piquing the interest of the biggest names in the Armenian music industry. Over the years, the coveted Summerfest stage has welcomed stars like Harout Pamboukjian, Paul Baghdadlian, Adis Harmandian, Aram Asatryan, Armenchik, Andy, Tata, Razmik Amyan, Martin Mkrtchyan, Nune, Aida Sargsyan, Silva Hakobyan, and Arman Hovhannisyan to name a few.

As the festival enters its third decade, it brings with it long-time Summerfest favorites like Adis Harmandian, Armenchik, and Joseph Krikorian who have witnessed the growth of the festival over the years; new friends like Martin Mkrtchyan, who has quickly become a crowd-favorite; entertainment for children like Joelle; members of the Toronto-Armenian community like Harout Bedrossian, Liquid Trio Band, Holy Trinity’s Sassoun Dance Ensemble, and Hamazkayin’s Erepuni Dance Ensemble; and for the first time ever to the Summerfest stage, the international pop-star who needs no introduction: Sirusho.

Over the past 21 years, the Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest has successfully become a manifestation of the Armenian diaspora in Toronto. (Photo: Shantimix Productions)

Keeping in mind families, Summerfest caters to children as well, not just with their own entertainer, but with endless activities open all weekend with the help of the Homenetmen scouts, and a petting zoo open on Sunday, July 9.

The Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest is just as much a showcase of Armenian culture to the Greater Toronto community, as it is a celebration of Armenian businesses making their mark in the Toronto Community. Local eateries like Lara’s Restaurant and Arz Fine Foods offer festivalgoers with a selection of dishes for both the grab-and-goers looking for a quick bite before running to the dance floor and the sit-and-eaters who like to enjoy their dishes while they take in the ambiance. Coffee, desserts, ice cream, and confectionery are also available for those of us who need that quick energy boost or need to cater to that sweet tooth.

Local eateries like Lara’s Restaurant and Arz Fine Foods offer festivalgoers with a selection of dishes. (Photo: Shantimix Productions)

Moreover, the A.C.C. Yearbook and the newly-built Armenian Business Directory  offer patrons with a glimpse of the Toronto-Armenian Community’s yearly projects and endeavors, as well as an exhaustive list of Armenian businesses in all sectors right under their fingertips.

Perhaps one of the most convenient features of the festival is the Radisson Hotel Toronto East that is right next door and allows festivalgoers to be near all the excitement without having to worry about transportation. In honor of the festival, Radisson is offering a special room rate to all patrons who mention “Summerfest” upon booking—only available until June 7.

A.C.C. Summerfest 2017

For anyone looking for a jam-packed and fun-filled weekend activity with friends and family this summer that offers great food, cool prizes, ample activities and live entertainment all under one roof, the Toronto A.C.C. Summerfest is definitely the place to be. This year, the festival will be held on July 7, 8, and 9, on the grounds of the Armenian Youth Center in Toronto. For more information and to keep up with the latest announcements on all things Summerfest, be sure to follow @accsummerfest on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

OTTAWA, Canada—A special screening of the Armenian Genocide-era Hollywood epic, The Promise took place on Parliament Hill on June 5.

The special event, which was organized by the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group and the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), was attended by a significant number of Parliamentarians, Senators, parliamentary staffers, and civil servants.

ANCC Members with Ambassador Yeganian and executive members of the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group (Photo: Mike’s Photo/ANCC)

Brief introductory remarks were delivered by ANCC member, Mr. Manoug Alemian, during which he thanked Member of Parliament (MP) Arnold Chan and members of the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group for their steadfast support and cordial commitment to the advancement of issues concerning the Armenian-Canadian community.

After viewing the film, members had the opportunity to share their comments, views and impressions about the movie, which first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last September.

Following the screening, MP Arnold Chan, chair of the Canada-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group and Dr. Vatche Chamlian, Vice-Chair of the ANCC National Board addressed the gathering to thank the attendees for their support and to stress the importance of supporting movies that aim to reveal the truth about historical atrocities such as the Armenian Genocide.

Set during the waning days of the Ottoman Turkish Empire, The Promise tells the story of a love triangle sparked between an Armenian medical student, Michael (Oscar Issac), Anna (Charlotte Le Bon), and renowned American photojournalist Chris Myers (Christian Bale). The First World War and the Armenian Genocide of the 1915-1923 form the historical backdrop of an epic story of love, loyalty and survival.

Canada is one of the many countries that has officially recognized the Armenian Genocide on all levels of Government. Furthermore, on April 24, 2015, on the centennial of the Armenian Genocide, the Canadian House of Commons unanimously passed a motion, declaring the month of April as Genocide Remembrance and Condemnation month.

The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues and works to eliminate abuses of human rights throughout Canada and the world.

OTTAWA, Canada—Hisyar Ozsoy, vice co-chair of the Peoples’ Democratic Party of Turkey (HDP) and the party’s foreign affairs critic, discussed the current political situation in Turkey and the ongoing persecution of minorities at a series of community events in Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa on June 10-12. The events were jointly organized by the Canadian Kurdish Federation (CKF) and the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC).

Ozsoy speaking to community members at the Armenian Community Center of Toronto (Photo: ANCC)

At each event, Ozsoy spoke of the aftermath of the constitutional referendum and the ongoing uncertainty and concern regarding the rights and freedoms of the minorities living in Turkey today. He specifically stressed the importance of raising international awareness and ensuring that western powers categorically condemn Turkish President Recep Tayipp Erdogan’s misconducts and actively engage in empowering civil society in Turkey.

On June 12, Ozsoy met with Canadian Members of Parliament and various officials representing the Government of Canada at special meetings organized by Mr. Tom Kmiec, Member of Parliament (MP) for Calgary Shepard and chair of the Kurdish-Canadian Parliamentary Friendship Group. During the meetings, Ozsoy, accompanied by Mr. Abraham Niziblian, executive member of the ANCC, and Mr. Gurkan Ormangoren, co-chair of CKF, discussed Canada’s responsibility to protect human rights of minorities in Turkey.

Toronto City Councillor Jim Karygiannis presents Ozsoy with a special citation (Photo: ANCC)

“Times are difficult and challenging but we will survive despite all the hardships imposed by the Erdogan regime… 5000 members of my party are in prison today, and I will get arrested when I get back to Turkey as well. However, I refuse to hide in another country. I need to be there with my people. I still have work to do,” Ozsoy said in his Montreal speech.

“We highly appreciate and commend the unwavering commitment displayed by Mr. Ozsoy and his party in promoting tolerance and human rights for ethnic minorities in Turkey” said Raffi Donabedian, chair of the ANCC. “Our expectation is for our government and for the entire international community to become more engaged and actively pursue efforts to promote human rights and justice in Turkey, especially at a time when the current regime is descending into absolute autocracy,” added Donabedian.

A scene from the Montreal event (Photo: ANCC)

Commenting on the events, Ormangoran noted that the mistreatment of the Kurdish minority and all other minorities in Turkey today has reached alarming levels. “Ozsoy’s appeal in Canada and elsewhere is more relevant than ever,” Ormangoran said.

Ozsoy is a ranking member of the HDP and a long-time activist for human rights issues in Turkey and around the world. Ozsoy was first elected as an MP from his hometown Bingol on June 7, 2015. He was re-elected on November 1, 2015.

Ozsoy speaking to community members at the Armenian Community Center of Toronto (Photo: ANCC)

Ozsoy is currently serves as the vice co-chair of the HDP, in charge of foreign affairs and a member of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. He is also a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE PA) and a substitute member of  the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).

OTTAWA, Canada—In a letter addressed to Canada’s Minister of Global Affairs and other high-ranking personnel within the Canadian governments’ executive and legislative branches, the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) strongly condemned Azerbaijan’s latest ceasefire violations and called upon the Canadian government to immediately condemn the unprovoked violence.

Protesters demonstrating at the Azerbaijani Embassy in Ottawa in 2016 (Photo: AYF Canada)

In the letter addressed to the Honorable Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s Minister of Global Affairs, ANCC President, Shahen Mirakian said, “We strongly urge you to support the peace process by immediately condemning this act of aggression by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s regime and making it clear that Azerbaijan will be held to account for any further violence.”

“The failure by Canada and the rest of the international community to make any statement on this incident would further empower the Aliyev regime and it could serve as a catalyst for further violence and destabilization in the region,” added Mirakian.

Over the past week, Azerbaijan continued to violate the internationally brokered ceasefire, using newly introduced long range grenade launchers and other highly sophisticated and destructive weaponry. Azerbaijan’s latest aggression has also targeted internationally commissioned Organization of Security and Co-operation in Europe OSCE monitoring personnel, while claiming the lives of four Armenian servicemen.

What is more troubling, however, is the fact that latest violations come shortly after Baku’s refusal to lead the OSCE monitoring mission to the line of contact, something for which Armenia has shown full compliance.

“Monitoring exercises are important confidence building measures, for which Azerbaijan has consistently failed to cooperate,” said Mirakian.

The latest monitoring exercises on the Armenian side were conducted in accordance with the agreed schedule. While no violation of the ceasefire regime was registered on the Armenian side, the Azerbaijani side refused to lead the OSCE mission to its front-line positions, clearly indicating its noncompliance with the international efforts aimed towards the peaceful resolution of the conflict.

Raffi Sarkissian

TORONTO, Canada—On June 28, the A.R.S. Armenian Private School announced the appointment of Raffi Sarkissian as Principal of the school.

Dr. Armen Martirossian, who had served as the school’s Principal for several years, recently resigned for personal reasons. “[Dr. Martirossian] has graciously offered his support and guidance over the summer as the

Board of Trustees and School Administration prepare for the next academic year. We look forward to working with him during this transition period. We would like to thank Baron Armen for his years of dedicated service to our school and look forward to celebrating his achievements at a farewell reception,” read a part of the statement released by the school.

Sarkissian is a proud A.R.S. Armenian Private School alumnus (class of 1997). He earned a B.A. Honors in History (2006) from York University, a Bachelor of Education from Trent University (2008), and a Master of Education (2012) from York University. He holds full Principal’s Qualifications and Ontario College of Teachers’ certifications in the primary, intermediate and senior divisions. He has worked at A.R.S. Armenian Private School since 2008, first as a humanities and social sciences teacher and guidance counselor at A.R.S. High School (2008‐2011), followed by six years as the Vice Principal of the junior school (2011‐2017).

Sarkissian, a frequent contributor to the Armenian Weekly, has conducted extensive research in Genocide and Human Rights Education and is the founder and former chair of the Sara Corning Centre for Genocide Education. He has co‐authored a collection of poems titled “The Reflecting Crane” (Խոկացող Կռունկը) and has contributed a chapter titled The Benefits and Challenges of Genocide Education: A Case Study of the Armenian Genocide in the book “Understanding Atrocities: Remembering, Representing and Teaching Genocide” published by the University of Calgary Press.

The A.R.S. Armenian Private School is the largest co-educational, Armenian-Canadian bilingual and bicultural day school in Ontario, teaching to students from Preschool through to Grade 12.The Armenian language, cultural and religious studies are weaved into the general curriculum in adherence with the Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines. With over 600 students strong, A.R.S. is an intimate school where students form positive bonds not only with each other and their teachers, but with the entire school community..