William Penn Life, 2001 (36. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2001-09-01 / 9. szám
International panel of Hungarian leaders discuss problems facing Voivodina WASHINGTON - The restoration of Voivodina's autonomy and the transformation of the Yugoslavian province into a model of multi-ethnic stability were the chief topics of a oneday international seminar held at the Capitol this summer. The seminar attracted about 60 participants, including staff members of Congress and the State Department, Hungarian leaders from Voivodina, and leaders of the American Hungarian community. "Voivodina can be a champion, a living example in Yugoslavia of a democratic, multi-ethnic society," said Nenad Canak, president of the Voivodina Assembly. One of the paths to such a society was explained by László Jozsa of the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Voivodina. He called attention to a three-tiered autonomy plan his party has adopted and stressed the multiethnic political partnership that he and Mr. Canak represent with the Democratic Opposition of Serbia. Hungarian Ambassador Geza NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ - The Museum of the American Hungarian Foundation (AHF), in conjunction with the Hungarian Alumnis Association, will share this fall a heartfelt look at the people and images of the 1956 Hungarian revolution "A People Cried Out: The 1956 Revolution and Fight for Freedom in Hungary" is a photographic exhibit from the Budapest Museum of Military History that explores the fears, joys and pain of the 12 days of the revolution that began Oct. 23, 1956. The exhibit runs from Sept. 30 through Nov. 4. The exhibit was developed with assistance from Dr. Károly Nagy, professor of sociology at Middlesex Jeszenszky noted that Hungary's interest in advancing democratization in Voivodina would benefit all ethnic groups of the province, and that it coincides with U.S. interests for stability in the Balkans. A number of participants discussed how the Yugoslav government often thwarts efforts to grant autonomy to Voivodina and stall other democratic reforms. Ian Brzezinski, senior professional staff member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said Congress remains committed to "conditionality of assistance to Yugoslavia," which includes Belgrade taking steps to protect minority rights and the rule of law. "Belgrade needs to react democratically to legitimate demands from the elected officials of Voivo-dina," he said. The seminar was sponsored by the Hungarian American Coalition and the Hungarian Human Rights Foundation, with support from several benefactors, including the William Penn Association. (N.J.) County College and a participant in the 1956 revolution. "The legacy of the revolution," Nagy said, "is the affirmation of the fundamental human strive for independence, selfdetermination, for truth, liberty, justice and democracy." Pat Fazekas, curator of the AHF museum said "working with Dr. Nagy helped me to understand the passion and personality of this revolution. That passion is demonstrated in the photographs." The exhibit can be viewed Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The suggested donation is $5. For more information, call the AHF at (732) 846-5777. Heritage day YOUNGSTOWN, OH - The Youngstown American Hungarian Club will celebrate its annual Hungarian Heritage Day on Sunday, Sept. 16, at the club, located at 2219 Donald Ave. The day will feature classic Hungarian cuisine, displays of Hungarian folk art, an overview of Hungary’s 1,110-year history, a Hungarian goods boutique and live music. Admission is $2. Hours are 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. For more information, call (330) 792-5124. Colorado resolution DENVER -- The State of Colorado recently declared Oct. 23, 2001, as “Hungarian Freedom Fighters Day.” The joint resolution of the Colorado House of Representatives and the Senate was sponsored by 37 representatives and 25 senators. The resolution notes “the sacrifices of the Hungarians in 1956 were not in vain, as they ultimately led to the collapse of most of the communist systems of the world and freedom for tens of millions of people.” This Oct. 23 marks the 45th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian uprising. ■■■■■■■■ Calling all Magyars If you have news about people and events in the American Hungarian community, please share them with us. You can send your information to Managing Editor John E. Lovász at the WPA Home Office, you can call him toll-free at I -800-848-7366, ext. 135, or you can send him an email message at jlovasz@williampennassodation.org. Photo exhibit to honor 45th anniversary of 1956 Hungarian revolution IVilliam I'piiii Life. September 2001 7
