Assyrian Martyrs Day 2024
On Sunday, 4 August 2024, the Assyrian National Council of Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians (TYA) held a solemn ceremony to commemorate Assyrian Martyrs Day. The event took place at the Assyrian Genocide Monument, a revered site that stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Assyrian people.
The commemoration was attended by a diverse gathering of individuals, including members of the Assyrian-Australian community, representatives from various community organisations, and esteemed guests from the Armenian and Greek communities. The presence of these representatives underscored the shared history and solidarity among peoples who have experienced similar historical injustices.
Elected officials from all levels of government also joined the gathering, emphasising the importance of acknowledging and honouring the memory of those who perished during the Assyrian Genocide. Their attendance highlighted the commitment of the broader Australian community to recognise and support the Assyrian cause.
Throughout the event, attendees engaged in heartfelt reflections, paying tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs and heritage. The ceremony featured moving speeches and a wreath-laying ceremony, all of which served to honour the memory of the martyrs and inspire future generations to continue the legacy of remembrance and resilience.
Following the ceremony at the monument, ANCA and TYA hosted a formal event at the ANCA Head Office, where a candle lighting ceremony was held. This significant ceremony was facilitated in collaboration with representatives of the Assyrian, Armenian, and Greek communities, symbolising the unity and shared commitment to the Joint Justice Initative (JJI).
