Armen Karo Student Assoctiation

Toronto- On Friday, May 28, 2010 the Armenian Community of Toronto gathered to celebrate the 92^nd anniversary of the first independence of the Republic of Armenia and the 5^th anniversary of the foundation of the ARF Armen Karo Student Association. The celebration, organized by the Armen Karo Student Association, took place in Toronto’s Armenian Community Centre with entertainment provided by Toronto’s own Harout Bedrossian.

Over 400 university students and community members young and old were present to celebrate both Armenia’s first independence, and the student association’s 5^th year anniversary. The Armen Karo Student Association, the youngest organization operating in the community, has quickly become one of the most active, bringing together youth from all universities in Ontario and Quebec, in a united effort to bring together Armenian students, promote our culture and heritage and continue the Armenian struggle by promoting Armenian rights and defending them on university and college environments.

Christine Galustians, a member of the Armen Karo Student Association, was the master of ceremonies for the evening. After making her opening remarks, she introduced Mr. Raffi Sarkissian, Vice-Chairman of the student association’s executive, to pass on the association’s message. Raffi spoke about the significance of May 28, and how the spirit of that victory in 1918, today still inspires the Armen Karo Student Association’s members, who work towards their ultimate goal of a free, sovereign, and united motherland. Mr. Sarkissian also spoke about how far the association has come over the past 5 years and what aspirations and challenges it has moving forward.  A slide show of pictures was on display throughout the evening, illustrating the association’s work both in the community and on university campuses.

Following Raffi’s speech, Harout Bedrossian and his band kicked off the celebration and dancing. Just after midnight, Harout began singing patriotic songs, as the members of the ARF JOC waved flags with honour. The singing and celebration continued well into the night, and well past Harout’s exit from the stage.

The event was preceded by an Independence Day commemoration program that took place at the Armenian Youth Centre, organized by the ARF “Soghomon Tehlirian” Committee, featuring guest speaker Mr. Apo Boghikian from Los Angeles. Armenia’s independence on May 28, 1918 represents one of the most important events in Armenian history when the Armenian nation rose from the ashes of the Armenian Genocide, risked whatever they had left and fought to form an independent homeland for the Armenian people. Understanding this importance, the Armen Karo Student Association works to instil into its members the appreciation for our courageous forefathers, who serve as example for our members, who battle on an academic front, to bring forth the truth, and to seek justice for the inhumane actions their people were sentenced to 95 years ago.