“I am an Assyrian, and as an Assyrian I am obligated to be actively interested in the destiny of the Assyrians, once the greatest nation now almost forgotten. I would be an arch-criminal if I failed to assume this obligation.”
- DR. DAVID B. PERLEYWHO WE ARE
OUR HISTORY
Since 2013, we have led the effort to preserve Assyrian history and heritage through youth focused programs that educate the next generation on the language, art, and practices of this ancient culture.
OUR MISSION
To unite the Assyrian youth in Arizona that share an interest in the social and educational aspects of the Assyrian culture. The ASA shall promote and sustain higher education among the students in the Assyrian community, and to preserve and raise awareness about Assyrian history and heritage.
OUR LOGO
The ASA logo was inspired by the Assyrian star, which was the symbol of the ancient Assyrian sun god "Shamash". Each point of the star is an Akkadian cuneiform letter. The letter pointing up is equivalent to the modern-day letter "sheen" (the first letter of "shootasa" - meaning "association"). The letter pointing down is "yodh" (the first letter for "yaloopeh" - which means "students"). The letter pointing to the right is the letter "alap" (the first letter of "Atourayeh" - meaning "Assyrians"). Finally, the letter pointing to the left is also "alap" (the first letter of "Arizona").
OUR FEDERATION
The Assyrian Student Association of Arizona is a proud founding member of the Assyrian Youth Federation of America (AYFA), established in 2018 alongside five other student and youth organizations across the U.S. ASA played a key role in the early collaborations that led to AYFA’s formation, including joint projects and youth exchanges. As a member, ASA continues to work in unity with secular Assyrian youth organizations nationwide, amplifying the voice of young Assyrians and fostering community engagement. Through AYFA, ASA is also connected to the global Assyrian youth movement as part of the World Assembly of Assyrian Youth (WAAY).
OUR PARTNER
The Assyrian Student Association was originally established as a youth chapter of the Assyrian American Cultural Organization (AACO) before becoming a fully independent youth-led organization in 2013. On May 19, 2024, ASA and AACO reaffirmed their shared mission by signing the Unity Pact, officially reuniting under a common vision for community and cultural advancement. This renewed partnership strengthens collaboration between Assyrian youth and the broader Assyrian community in Arizona, paving the way for continued growth, unity, and engagement.
