ASSYRIANS IN TATARSTAN

Since 1997 in Kazan (Tatarstan) a quarterly independent bulletin of Assyrians in Tatarstan called "Bahra" (Light) has been coming out in the Russian language. A small community of a little over 200 Assyrians managed to preserve self-identity and feel them part of the nation which stands equal with any other nation in the territory of Russian Federation. Besides Assyrians of Tatarstan opened a national Sunday school. In the fifth issue one can find the relevant materials.

This Sunday school which was started on 14 September 1997 had been initiated by Z.A.Toma, S.L.Gewargis, V. I. Mikhai.1o, G.A.Bet-Murat, and A.V.Savva. V.I.Mikhailo runs classes of the native language. He enjoys high authority among Assyrians for he has proved to be a great enthusiast about education. G.A.Bet-Murat teaches national dances including long forgotten ones. Restoration of folklore traditions and customs is one of the most important tasks of Sunday school.

Savva A. V. runs a class of Assyrian history. Tchelabi T .N. is a great hand at methods employed to structurize curriculum studies. She is a very experienced educator. She is always ready to assist in schooling of Assyrians.

Another significant event happened on October 5, 1997 when there was an assembly of Assyrians in Kazan to establish a national cultural autonomy "Bahra". Its goal is revival of Assyrian nation, its language and culture as well as promotion of multiple links between Assyrians in Tatarstan and their compatriots in different countries and regions. Besides one of the main goals is safeguard of national interests of Assyrians in Tatarstan, etc. A. V. Savva was elected its chaim1an, and the members of Council are Bet-Murat G.A., Gewargis S.L., Toma Z.A., Mikhailo V.I., and Tchelabi T.N. as secretary.

Now we should like to wish success to the national cultural autonomy of Assyrians in Tatarstan "Bahra" in all its pursuits and to Sunday school for Assyrians in Kazan in the education of youth in native language, history and culture.

Here is the mailing address for the Bulletin "Bahra":

ASSHUR- PRESS .

P.O.Box 18, Kazan, 4201.39

TATARSTAN