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Global News Through a Greek Lens
Global News Through a Greek Lens
In a warm and festive atmosphere, the Hellenic Heritage Foundation (HHF) held its annual Christmas Dinner on November 23, 2024, at the Palais Royale in Toronto. The event brought together distinguished members of the Greek community, academics, politicians, and friends of the Foundation to celebrate the organization’s initiatives and achievements over the past year.
Set against the elegant backdrop of the Palais Royale, HHF President Anastasios (Andy) Seretis delivered a reflection on the year’s milestones, underscoring the importance of collective efforts to preserve Greek identity in Canada. In his address, he emphasized that “the HHF remains a beacon of unity and cultural continuity.”
Highlighting the significance of collaboration, Seretis referenced the historic visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Canada – the first by a Greek prime minister in 40 years after Andreas Papandreou’s visit in 1983. “This marked the first time in four decades that a Greek prime minister visited the Greek diaspora in Canada,” he noted, “an event realized through collaboration with the Greek Community of Toronto and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada.”
Among the year’s many accomplishments, Seretis pointed to the Greek International Film Festival, which promoted Greek cinematography in 11 cities across Canada, and the Heritage Greece Program, which provided 22 Canadian students with the opportunity to explore Greek heritage through an educational trip to Greece.
The evening celebrated not only the success of the HHF’s initiatives but also its enduring role in fostering connections and preserving the vibrant legacy of Hellenism within the Canadian cultural mosaic.
The event provided an opportunity to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to preserving and promoting Greek heritage. Irene Keroglidis became the first woman to receive the title of Honorary Lifetime Member of the HHF, an acknowledgment of her dedication and service to the Foundation and the broader Greek-Canadian community. Eight distinguished students were honored with scholarships for their academic excellence.
The president of HHF highlighted the progress of the Hellenic Heritage Foundation Greek Canadian Archives, a program dedicated to preserving and researching the history of Greeks in Canada. By collecting materials from organizations such as the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) and the Hellenic Canadian Lawyers’ Association (HCLA), the initiative ensures that the rich history of the Greek diaspora will remain accessible to scholars and the wider community for generations to come.
The recognition of outstanding contributors and the advancement of archival efforts underline the HHF’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Greek heritage in Canada.
The night came to a vibrant close with a musical performance by Stavros Kanichis and his orchestra, offering attendees the chance to enjoy traditional Greek melodies and dancing. Seretis extended heartfelt thanks to supporters and volunteers, emphasizing that the Foundation’s initiatives would not be possible without their invaluable contributions.