The Ability of Organisations to Foster Cultural Continuity and Preservation in Diaspora
The role that Assyrian organisations play in the preservation of Indigenous culture is pivotal to upholding continuity, belonging and identity. For many Assyrians, namely young people in the diaspora, organisations such as the Assyrian Cultural & Social Youth Association Inc (ACSYA Inc.), amongst others, have provided a safe space for people to come together with a central goal of community, engagement and education. Social events, cultural workshops, and educational seminars are some tangible avenues that Assyrian organisations in Australia, New Zealand, United States, Germany, and the Homeland, aim to provide Assyrians with a sense of belonging and preserve the collective Assyrian identity. As well as raising awareness regarding human rights abuses and violations targeting Assyrians, such organisations encourage advocacy and activism through different mediums such as creative, educational or social platforms.
Dr. Ramina Jajoo-Frindrich, President and Strategic Consultant of the Seyfo Centre, Arizona Chapter explained that the “Seyfo Center aims to serve, educate and advocate on all matters pertaining to Assyrian genocide.” She further emphasised that “When we get involved in organizations, we become more educated in our own social structure and develop a deeper understanding of who we truly are… a true sense of self develops on these platforms.” Importantly, young Assyrian migrants begin to thrive in the local community space by attending events hosted by organisations as without these initiatives, “…it would be very challenging to preserve our culture, traditions, language, and identity in the diaspora,” says first generation immigrant from Iraq, Nohara Albelaty. For Nohara, these organisations “go above and beyond to keep our community in diaspora connected.” She adds that she feels a sense of connection when she is around such organisations as “they have helped me stay connected to my Assyrian roots and culture.”
Some organisations aim to provide financial assistance through charity to those directly affected by the human rights violations occurring in the homeland, while others focus on lobbying for recognition and fighting for the land and human rights of the Assyrian people. The diverse aims and ambitions of these organisations are not limited to those mentioned above and will continue to change in the future as a result of potential reformations and developments. “All our organisations whether in Atra or diaspora have one thing in common, which is establishing a safe and comfortable environment for our people to live and prosper in,” says Miss Albelaty. As someone who has experienced the struggles associated with displacement, relocation, and subsequent assimilation, Miss Albelaty believes that the initiatives which organisations undertake make it “...easier for people like myself and other young Assyrians to connect and share our experiences, which I believe it’s very important in keeping our name, identity, culture, and traditions alive.”
Mariana Elias, an Assyrian counsellor based in Sydney, Australia, adds that “It is immensely important to an individual's mental wellbeing and as a collective for these organisations to gather.” She explained that it has a deep effect on “a person's ability to feel belongingness, strengthen their sense of identity, reinforce their values and provide a sense of purpose.” Such organisations act as a medium where young people can get involved to speak up on the many confronting issues faced by the community. Namely, these issues include but are not limited to, social exclusion, disconnection from land and culture, potential assimilation, forced integration and language barriers which are more evident living in a diaspora. “As a therapist whose main demographic is Assyrian individuals, I see many issues surrounding, lacking in sense of identity, anxiety, depression…This is why there is a need for Assyrian organisations to create a sense of community and belonging through events”. She further highlights these sentiments as organisations “reinforce a sense of identity and culture [and] teach sensitivity to younger Assyrian generations to show importance and respect for their culture.”
Overall, being involved with such organisations as a general member, volunteer, attendee, or executive is providing young people with a growing social network, building confidence, and developing new skills all whilst contributing to the local and global Assyrian community. These organisations “provide a safe space for our younger generations to flourish and shine…while creativity is encouraged,” Dr. Jajoo-Frindrich expresses. Specifically, through volunteering with those marginalised in the local and global community, young people begin to play a significant role in addressing the many social, cultural and emotional issues that Assyrians experience. By doing so, organisations “allow for opportunities to serve other communities of different backgrounds, thus giving our nation a chance to interact and showcase our culture to others,” Dr. Jajoo-Frindrich adds.
Each organisation plays a unique role in this system of preservation and continuity in the diaspora; interconnected through different motivations, strengths, and target goals. It is therefore crucial for Assyrians to have sufficient access to the resources in which organisations provide to ensure optimal engagement in the preservation of Assyrian language and culture, as well as a holistic understanding of the Assyrian struggle. Being involved with the Assyrian community is increasingly crucial for the protection of the land and human rights of the Assyrian people.
