I am a Canadian writer of Hungarian descent working on a book about the Hungarian-Canadian experience entitled Magyarazni, and I am looking for participants! With the generous support of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, in May and June of 2012 I will be visiting Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver, Victoria, Salmon Arm, Calgary, and points in between to interview Hungarians who came to Canada in 1956 to hear about their experience of immigrating to Canada. I also hope to interview the children of such refugees about their experience of growing up with a Hungarian parent (I myself am the child of a ‘56er). I am also happy to speak with anyone who immigrated from Hungary or a neighbouring Hungarian-speaking region after 1956.
This project aims to examine the cultural experience of all Hungarian-Canadians, and I am interested in hearing stories from different perspectives. Whether you speak Hungarian daily or never learned the language, whether you participate in Hungarian cultural activities or not, whether you visit Hungary often or have never been to the country, I want to hear from you. The interviews can be conducted in English, French, or Hungarian, depending on your preference. If I am unable to visit your city or town, or if you are simply more comfortable doing so, interviews can also be conducted via phone, email, or skype. You may choose to have your interview recorded under your name, or to have it remain anonymous.
The ‘56ers were the single largest group of refugees that Canada has accepted to date. Magyarazni will chronicle this significant moment in both Canadian and Hungarian history, and explore the impact that this moment has had on both of our cultures. Add your voice to our story—if you are interested in participating or would like to learn more, please email me at magyarazni@gmail.com
About me: I hold a BA Honours in English from the University of Calgary, an MA in English from McGill, and am currently completing and MLIS. My first book Poets and Killers: A Life in Advertising was published in 2010 by Snare books. Magyarazni is supported by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts.
