Thomas Saras Awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal During Press Freedom Event

On May 2, Toronto City Hall hosted a celebration of World Press Freedom Day, organized by the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC). The event brought together journalists, officials, and guests to recognize professionals who contribute to the defence of freedom of expression in the country.

In his speech, Thomas Saras, President of the NEPMCC, paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives in the pursuit of truth, as well as those who continue to risk everything to keep the public informed. He emphasized that press freedom is a pillar of democracy and a shared responsibility among all who believe in justice.

The honourees were: Habeeb Alli, Al Pace, Hoang Thanh Tam Tran, Jeremy Grimaldi, Paul Nguyen, Dr. Mohammad Tajdolati, The Hon. Joe Volpe, and Aris Babikian, MPP.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the King Charles III Coronation Medal to Thomas Saras, presented by Aris Babikian—who was also recognized with the same honour. At age 86, Saras received a standing ovation and was surprised with a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Maria Saras Voutsinas, Executive Director of the NEPMCC, expressed pride in her father’s lifelong commitment to ethnic media and democracy.

By Isa Melo — Editor-in-Chief of etc&tal Magazine