Forty Bulgarian schools in 22 US states have become a second home for the children of Bulgarian emigrants. They create continuity between generations and teach about Bulgarian history, traditions, and culture. They also create opportunities for university education in the United States and a career based on the Bulgarian language.

Daniela Sirakova, head of the consular service in New York, calls Bulgarian educational centers "hearths of patriotism around the world." A career diplomat as head of NATO psychological operations in Afghanistan, with positions at the Bulgarian Embassy in the United States and the Consulate General in New York, today she proudly says that thanks to her son's integration she combines professional fulfilment with family comfort. "As a mother, I can say that with the help of the Bulgarian school, my child knows much more about Bulgaria, about our traditions and customs, about geography, than me," she says.

"Bulgarian Sunday schools abroad have an indispensable role in the field of education, maintain a vital connection with the homeland and provide an invaluable opportunity to receive Bulgarian education, which connects our compatriots abroad with our culture and society,” the diplomat told Radio Bulgaria. “They also create an exceptional environment in which children meet their peers of Bulgarian origin, form friendships and, last but not least, build a strong sense of belonging to the community. For parents, it is a place for social contacts and relaxation, a kind of way to feel at home. In Bulgarian schools students get acquainted with the history and geography of Bulgaria, with our traditions and customs, with our holidays, and the teachers give their best thanks to their love for the homeland."

• Thirteen US states recognize the Seal of Biliteracy in Bulgarian

Many of the Sunday schools in the United States were established on the initiative of compatriots who wanted their children to learn Bulgarian and through their knowledge to remain connected to Bulgaria. Often these educational institutions are run by active members of the Bulgarian community, working on a voluntary basis.

"Parents are a driving force, especially in the early stages of school development," Daniela Sirakova says. "A large part of the teaching staff and administration are volunteers. These people dedicate time and effort to maintain the schools and organize various cultural activities. The Bulgarian community is the center of many cultural events, holidays and festivals that engage all compatriots. This includes celebrating Bulgarian holidays, important historical dates, organizing film and book festivals, theatre performances and concerts. So, I could say that the Bulgarian community in America is extremely vibrant and fruitful."

• An abundance of Bulgarian cultural events unites the Bulgarian community in the New York area

The Consular Service of the Consulate General in New York, headed by Daniela Sirakova, is also a place where Bulgarians can find answers to their questions and receive assistance.

"Most Bulgarians who come to us need issuing personal documents, as well as notarization of other documents,” the diplomat says. “Unfortunately, there are also Bulgarians seeking assistance for reasons such as hospital treatment, or in the event of a death, etc. Despite the small staff of the Consulate General in New York, we work with great enthusiasm and try to be useful and help everyone."

Read also:

• Strengthening ties with Bulgaria is a top priority for the Consulate General in New York

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Author: Diana Tsankova

Publication in English: Alexander Markov

Photos: Consulate General New York, Facebook/@bulgarianschoolireland, Bulgarian School "Sts. Cyril and Methodius" Boston, Consulate General Chicago