The Young Assyrians

Meeting with Chris Rath

It was a pleasure for The Young Assyrians to catch up with Chris Rath, MLC at NSW Parliament. Chris has long been a steadfast advocate for the Assyrian-Australian community, consistently using his platform to amplify our concerns and priorities. His commitment to advancing education and public understanding of the Assyrian, Armenian, and Greek genocides remains deeply appreciated, and his continued support plays a vital role in preserving historical truth.

Our discussions centred on strengthening engagement with community organisations, expanding pathways for youth leadership, and ensuring that the stories and struggles of our people continue to be heard at the highest levels of government. The Young Assyrians were proudly represented by Mr Dennis Suro, whose leadership and advocacy reflect the next generation’s dedication to community, heritage, and justice.

Young Assyrians in Canberra: Advocacy Trip

On Wednesday, 29th and Thursday, 30th October, The Young Assyrians (TYA) met with several Australian Members of Parliament and Senators to advocate on behalf of the Assyrian people. Led by Mr Dennis Suro, President of TYA, the newly appointed Board of Directors engaged in high-level discussions at Parliament House, Canberra. The meetings began with the Hon. Chris Bowen MP (Member for McMahon, NSW) and continued with Senator Dave Sharma (NSW), Senator James Paterson (Victoria), Anne Stanley MP (Member for Werriwa, NSW), Dai Le MP (Member for Fowler, NSW), and Basem Abdo MP (Member for Parramatta, NSW).

During these meetings, TYA presented a policy framework outlining the future of the Nineveh Plains in northern Iraq, a region central to the survival and continuity of the Indigenous Assyrian community. The delegation emphasised that the establishment of a secure and self-administered Nineveh Plains would not only preserve Assyrian heritage and identity but also contribute to long-term stability, diversity, and economic development across the wider Middle East.

TYA also encouraged continued Australian engagement in supporting sustainable policy solutions that protect vulnerable minorities and foster inclusive development in the region. These meetings reflected a productive exchange of ideas and strengthened the delegation’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, heritage preservation, and regional stability.

Supporting Syrian Christian Communities: Engagement in Melbourne

Our Melbourne, Victoria Lead, George Aprim, participated in a strategic meeting today focused on exploring pathways to support the migration of persecuted Syrian Christian communities to Australia. The session provided an important platform to discuss practical solutions and long-term strategies to assist families seeking safety and stability.

We were grateful for the collaboration and insights of Senator Paul Scarr, Evan Mulholland MP, and Frank Greenstein OAM, whose participation highlighted the commitment of Australian leaders to protecting vulnerable communities and promoting inclusive migration policies.

The discussions emphasised the importance of coordinated advocacy, community support networks, and policy frameworks that ensure persecuted families can resettle safely while maintaining their cultural and religious heritage. This meeting represents a key step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide practical outcomes and meaningful support for those in need.

Welcoming Esteemed Guests and Honouring our Martyrs

The Young Assyrians (TYA) were honoured this week to welcome Mr Fadi Mansour and Ms. Esagila Cherry to our Head Office and to accompany them to the Assyrian Genocide Monument at Kalang Road Reserve, Bonnyrigg.

At our Head Office, Mr. Mansour and Ms. Cherry were warmly received by Mr. Dennis Suro, President of TYA, and Mr. Beneil Mishou, Vice President of TYA. The meeting provided an important opportunity to exchange perspectives on the objectives of TYA and our parent organisation, the Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA), and to discuss ways we can continue supporting and advocating for our community. We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Mansour and Ms. Cherry for their visit and their ongoing contributions to the Assyrian-Australian community.

Following the office meeting, TYA had the privilege of accompanying our guests to the Assyrian Genocide Monument, where we paid our respects and reflected on the enduring legacy of our martyrs. The monument stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, resilience, and cultural survival for the Assyrian people. President Suro and Vice President Mishou joined the delegation in acknowledging the lives lost and the importance of preserving our history for future generations.

During the visit, TYA engaged in meaningful discussions with our international guests about the significance of cultural preservation, the role of the Assyrian diaspora in advocating for justice and recognition worldwide, and the ongoing work needed to support our community locally and abroad. Sharing this experience reinforced the global connections within our community and highlighted the vital importance of remembrance, heritage, and advocacy.

The day was a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to honour the past, strengthen our community, and continue advocating for the recognition and preservation of Assyrian history and heritage.