Introduction
The initial idea for establishing the “Anthropos” Institute took shape in July 2023. It arose from the recognized need for a socio-cultural institute for immigrants in Canada, focusing on four principles: multiculturalism, multilingualism, secularism, and human rights. The main goal of Anthropos is to redefine the immigrant experience, transforming it into a process of growth, integration, and active participation in the dynamic cultural and social landscape of Canada. Our intention is to facilitate the immigration process and strengthen the assimilation and adaptation of immigrants into Canadian society. Therefore, our focus is on creating a cultural bridge that promotes mutual understanding, respect, and multiculturalism. However, Anthropos extends its activities beyond those who have experienced immigration, to include intergenerational issues and adaptation across generations. Cultural identity issues are among our primary concerns.
The Philosophy of Name
The choice of the institute’s name “Anthropos” is derived from the Greek root “ἄνθρωπος,” which means human, and we use it to encompass all humans, regardless of gender, race, belief, or geographical constraint.
Mission:
Therefore, the mission of the Anthropos Institute is focused on facilitating cultural assimilation in immigrants from various diasporas, providing services aimed at helping ease the process of cultural assimilation, adaptation, and integration into the Canadian cultural and social environment after immigration.
Objectives:
- Objectives focused on psychological, cultural, and social adaptation
This includes cultural adaptation, understanding discrimination and possible biases in the host society, resilience in cultural assimilation, psychological stress of immigration, evolving stresses in immigrant families, parenting and the challenges of generational gaps, and the awareness and development of intercultural sensitivity.
- Objectives related to adaptation to the educational, economic, and social environment
This section includes education and schooling and integration into the new educational system, access to essential health, social, and legal services, language barriers, management of economic problems, and the enhancement of economic literacy.
Anthropos Slogan
The slogan of Anthropos complements the philosophy behind its formation, mission, and core objectives. Finding a place in the host society is an important but initial concern for immigrants. On a higher level, immigrants need to develop a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging and connectedness is a matter of identity and is bidirectional. On one hand, the immigrant must maintain their connection to their roots and, on the other hand, establish a solid bridge between their country of origin and the host country. Thus, the slogan of the Anthropos Institute is:
**You Belong Here**
The slogan “You Belong Here” signifies being part of a larger community, acknowledging roots, and respecting diverse cultures. It conveys the idea that everyone, regardless of their history, beliefs, or circumstances, has a place where they are welcomed, respected, and valued. In the context of immigration, this slogan is used to emphasize the importance of diversity and helps immigrants feel a sense of belonging and connection to their group, organization, or society. This slogan believes that every individual deserves to be part of a community where they feel safe and supported, feeling part of something larger than themselves.
Registration Information
The Anthropos Institute was registered in June 2024 in Canada as a non-profit organization. The founding members of the institute are Pasha Javadi, Ahmadreza Mohammadpour-Yazdi, and Mehran Taghipour. The institute is open to new contributors.