CANADA-HUNGARY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION / FONDATION EDUCATIVE CANADA-HONGRIE

The Canada-Hungary Educational Foundation / Fondation éducative Canada-Hongrie is a registered Canadian charity with a business registration number of 833718877RR0001. Established in December 2005, its primary mission is to raise public awareness and promote the value of refugee and immigration movements to Canada, focusing particularly on the immigration of Hungarian refugees to Canada in 1956-1957[1][2].

Mission and Objectives

The Foundation aims to develop and implement educational projects highlighting Canada's role in receiving Hungarian refugees and their contributions to Canadian society. It encourages research, organizes public events, and creatively showcases the cultural identity of Hungarian Canadians as part of Canada's multicultural fabric[1][2]. Additionally, it undertakes educational exchanges and offers scholarships or internships to foster better understanding and appreciation of diversity in a global context[1].

Activities and Projects

A significant project initiated by the Foundation is the website Hungarian Presence, launched in 2007 to present the diverse experiences and contributions of Hungarian Canadians to Canada's heritage and culture. This platform explores Hungarian cultural identity and serves as a reservoir for youth voices while preserving and enriching existing archival materials[3].

Historical Context

The Foundation's establishment coincided with the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the arrival of nearly 38,000 Hungarian refugees to Canada in 1956-1957. This event provided a strategic opportunity to highlight Canada's role in accepting refugees and their subsequent integration into Canadian life[2].

Long-term Goals

In the long term, the Canada-Hungary Educational Foundation seeks to explore the profound impact of the refugee experience on Canadian identity and society through diverse educational projects. By doing so, it aims to educate Canadians and worldwide audiences about the positive aspects of refugee experiences and their invaluable contributions to Canadian society[2][4].