A.R.F. ANTRANIG ST. CATHARINES​

 

ABOUT US

 

History of the A.R.F.

The Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) is an Armenian Political Party founded in Tiflis, Georgia in 1890 by Kristapor Mikaelian, Stepan Zorian and Simon Zavarian. It brought together various factions of Armenian political groups similar to those operating in Russia and Eastern Europe at the time. The original aim of the party was autonomy of the Armenian populated areas in the Ottoman Empire. It is the largest political party among Armenians in the diaspora. The ARF operates among Armenian communities internationally, especially in Armenia and Lebanon, as well as in the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh. In Canada, the ARF functions as the umbrella organization to the Armenian National Committee of Canada, the Armenian Relief Society, the Homenetmen Armenian General Athletic Union, the Armenian Youth Federation, the Hamazkayin Cultural Foundation and many other community organizations and churches. It is headquartered in Montreal and has chapters in Toronto, Laval, Cambridge, Vancouver, Hamilton, St. Catharines and Windsor. In St.Catharines, the ARF “Antranig” Gomideh was founded by a group of Armenian immigrants in 1906. Henceforth, the ARF has been the strongest organization functioning in St. Catharines, along with its sister organizations. Since 1934, The Gomideh has had its club (originally on the corner of Carlton and Ontario Street, and currently located on Martindale Road).

Mission

The creation of a Free, Independent and United Armenia. The borders of United Armenia shall include all territories designated as Armenia by the Treaty of Sevres, as well as the regions of Artsakh, Javakhk and Nakhichevan.  International condemnation of the as yet unpunished Genocide committed by the Ottoman Empire against the Armenians, return of the lands which are claimed to be occupied and just reparations to the Armenian nation.The gathering of worldwide expatriated Armenians on the lands of a united Armenia. Strengthening Armenia’s statehood, institutionalization of democracy and the rule of law, securing the people’s economic well being, and establishment of social justice. Outside of Armenia the primary role of the ARF is to preserve the Armenian identity and culture, while pushing forward the Armenian Cause.

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Who Can Join The St. Catharines "Antranig" Gomideh?

Any Armenian aged 18 or older. Potential new members must participate in an educational program prior to being accepted. The Gomideh will research the candidate’s background and then a final determination will be made.

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To learn more about ARF "Antranig", click here.

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For more information about the St. Catharines Chapter, please contact Gary Kavazanjian at accstcatharines@gmail.com.