Premier Doug FordNation visits the Armenian Community Centre of Toronto

TORONTO—On November 4, Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited the Armenian Community Centre of Toronto, meeting with representatives of the community during a special event hosted by Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Aris Babikian. The gathering highlighted the provincial government’s ongoing support for multicultural communities and celebrated the achievements of the Armenian community in Ontario.

Aris Movsessian, who served as the master of ceremonies, highlighted several contributions from the provincial government to the Armenian community. He noted the introduction and passing of the Armenian Heritage Month bill, the issuance of licenses for a new Armenian long-term care home, over $1.4 million in funding for the Armenian Youth Centre’s expansion, and grants for the Zoryan Institute and the Sarah Corning Centre for Genocide Education.

During the event, MPP Babikian, who represents Scarborough–Agincourt, praised Premier Ford’s leadership, particularly in healthcare, infrastructure, and multicultural initiatives. “Unlike previous governments, Premier Doug Ford has delivered on his promises to the people of Ontario,” Babikian said. “Premier Ford has made strides to make Ontario a better place to live and raise a family.”

Karnig Hasserjian, chair of the Armenian Community Centre, expressed gratitude for the government’s support in addressing safety and infrastructure concerns at the Centre. “Our community centre has faced multiple challenges with aging infrastructure and safety concerns, and I’m glad to say that the government of Ontario has supported us with grants to help renovate our courtyard and ensure the centre remains a safe place for the entire community,” he said. Hasserjian also emphasized the Centre’s cultural significance, describing it as “a home away from home for many Ontarians” and a hub for preserving Armenian traditions while embracing diversity.

Premier Ford praised the Armenian community’s resilience and contributions to Ontario’s cultural and economic fabric. He highlighted the province’s transformation into an economic powerhouse, pointing out that Ontario’s tech sector now employs 430,000 people, with $11 billion in investments by 136 global companies this year creating 12,200 jobs. Ford also underscored his government’s commitment to infrastructure, citing an $80 billion investment in transit—including Scarborough’s first subway extension—and $50 billion allocated for hospital upgrades. Concluding his remarks, he shared his guiding philosophy: “Never forget your roots... return everyone’s call and do your very best.”