-PRESS RELEASE-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2017
Contact: Sevag Belian (613) 235-2622
Ottawa- Today, the Armenian National Committee of Canada joins Canadians of all backgrounds, in celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary of confederation.
“We are exceptionally fortunate to be living in a free, secure and democratic nation today because of the commitment, courage and resolve of the men and women who built Canada and stood up to defend it” said Shahen Mirakian, President of the Armenian National Committee of Canada.
Throughout 2017 and especially on July 1st, Canadians from all walks of life will celebrate our nation’s 150th anniversary. This significant milestone will be remembered as a proud chapter in our collective history. More importantly, in celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary we will demonstrate to the world, our nation’s diversity, unity, and unparalleled legacy in upholding our shared values of respect, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue.
“Today, Canadians identify together by common values, practices, and aspirations. And in this historic moment of both exceptional change and historic opportunity, we feel indebted to remind the world to follow Canada’s example of respecting human rights, acknowledging history and defending the universal principles of justice and democracy” said Mirakian.
Since the early days of confederation, Canada has been home to a vibrant and active Armenian community who fled the persecution of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Throughout the years, Armenians have settled in Canada in search of a better life, while immensely contributing to the social, political and cultural framework of Canada.
As a part of Canada’s noble endeavor of accepting thousands of Syrian refugees, today, many Syrian-Armenians who fled their war-torn country of Syria have also settled in various parts of Canada, significantly contributing to the expansion and development of Armenian-Canadian communities across the nation.
“As we reflect on our past achievements and shortcomings as a nation, today we stand together to strengthen our commitment and dedication to this country and empower our future generations by building a bright future for all Canadians” concluded Mirakian.
On this significant milestone, the Armenian National Committee of Canada extends its best wishes to all Canadians and wishes everyone a happy Canada Day.
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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.
