On Sunday, October 26, the Hungarian national flag was raised in Budapest Park, Toronto, to commemorate the heroes of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and Freedom Fight. The solemn ceremony brought together members of the Hungarian community, diplomats, and representatives of Hungarian organizations in Canada to pay tribute to the enduring spirit of freedom and resilience that continues to inspire generations worldwide.
During the Hungarian National Anthem, Consul General Dr. János Jákó and Sándor Balla, President of the Hungarian Business Association of Canada and Executive Director of the HEPA Regional Office Canada, raised the flag together. This symbolic act reflected the unity and shared commitment of Hungarians at home and abroad to preserve national heritage and honor historical memory.
Sándor Balla and Dr. János Jákó raise the Hungarian flag at Budapest Park, commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.
Wreath-Laying and Ceremonial Speeches
As part of the commemoration, leaders of Canadian-Hungarian organizations placed wreaths of remembrance before the Hungarian Freedom Monument, paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives for Hungary’s independence in 1956.
The ceremony included heartfelt speeches from:
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Dr. János Jákó, Consul General of Hungary in Toronto
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Prof. Alán Alpár, Vice-Rector for International Studies at Semmelweis University
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Sándor Balla, who offered a blessing and words of remembrance on behalf of the Hungarian Business Association of Canada and HEPA Regional Office Canada
Each address emphasized the values of freedom, unity, and cultural pride, and the importance of passing these ideals to future generations within the diaspora.
HEPA and Consular Representation
The HEPA Hungarian Export Promotion Agency was represented by Mária Libaiova, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Balázs Csutora, Expert for Canadian Relations. Their presence reflected HEPA’s ongoing dedication to building bridges between Hungary and Canada—not only in business and innovation, but also through shared cultural and national remembrance.
The Consulate General of Hungary in Toronto was represented by:
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Máté Árpád Igaz, Deputy Head of Mission, Economic and Trade Attaché
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Gábor Péter Markocsány, Consul and Diaspora Liaison Diplomat
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Dr. Barbara Éva Bernhardt, Consul
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Dániel Németh, Economic and Trade Attaché
Their attendance underscored the importance of strengthening diplomatic, cultural, and community ties between Hungary and Canada.
Conclusion
The Hungarian Flag Raising Ceremony in Toronto served as a moving tribute to the heroes of 1956 and a reminder of the enduring power of unity within the Hungarian community abroad. Through this commemoration, the HEPA Regional Office Canada and the Hungarian Business Association of Canada continue to honor Hungary’s legacy while fostering connections that strengthen the bond between the two nations.
Guests and community leaders gather at Budapest Park in Toronto for the Hungarian Flag Raising Ceremony.
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