On a recent warm spring afternoon, Azniv Guiragossian sat quietly in a wheelchair between her daughter Arpi and son Shahen in the living room of the New York Armenian Home in Flushing, Queens. Dressed in a patterned blouse and a long black skirt, her tinsel-colored hair tied back in a braid, Azniv turned to her son and graced his cheek with her red painted nails as she whispered, “How lucky you are that you were raised by your mother.”

Azniv Guiragossian with her children Arpi Nardone and Shahen Guiragossian at the New York Armenian Home

Although the words, spoken in Armenian, were made as an impromptu remark from a mother to a son, that simple phrase portrayed the she still ache feels as a genocide survivor, a pain that has lasted almost a century.

Only one years old when she lost both of her parents, her father’s death resulting from the shock of a death sentence and her mother’s demise on the marches through Der Zor, Azniv was kidnapped by a Turkish family until her relatives were able to find her. Unable to care for her, however, they placed her and her sister in an orphanage in Aleppo, Syria.

“She never had her mother’s love,” said Arpi. “She was starving for her love.”

“She would always say how hungry and cold she was,” added Shahen.

Through an arranged marriage, Azniv married an Armenian choral director and teacher who later became a priest. Following a move to Beirut, the family of six settled in New York City in 1950.

“My life was very bad,” said Azniv, 99, who was born in Urfa. “I was on the streets. But I stayed strong.”

Perouz Kalousdian is another Armenian Genocide survivor who was robbed of a childhood. She saw the destruction of her family at a young age when Turkish soldiers tied the males in her family two by two and threw them into the Euphrates River.

“They took my family,” said Perouz, born in 1909 in Harput. “They separated us and took them away. I never saw them again.”

Perouz, six years old at the time, recalls being carried on her mother’s back during the death marches. Surviving the deportations, she and her mother reached Aleppo, where they stayed before leaving for the United States. There they reunited with her father, who had fled the genocide.

A third survivor who resides at the Armenian Home is Arsalos Dadir, who was born in 1913 in Shabin Karahisar. Her father and uncle were killed by the Young Turks, along with others in their village who were tied up and shot. She remembers seeing hundreds of bodies piled on top of one another. Her family lost all of their wealth and land, but was able to settle in Constantinople where Arsalos married and raised two children, moving to the U.S. later in life.

Armenian Genocide survivors Perouz Kalousdian and Azniv Guiragossian, holding copies of ‘The National Geographic Magazine on Armenia and Armenians 1915-1919,’ and Hasan Cemal’s book ‘1915: Armenian Genocide.’

The New York Armenian Home, founded by Sarah Sanossian in 1948, has long served as a residence for survivors of the Armenian Genocide. An Armenian-only, private, non-funded home for the elderly, led by Executive Director Aggie Ellian, it provides around-the-clock care for residents in a culturally rich setting. The Armenian Home is the annual setting for the Armenian Genocide Media Day, organized by the Knights of Vartan, where local Armenian and non-Armenian media interview and record survivors accounts and testimonies from the genocide.

The 99th anniversary commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, sponsored by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, will be held in Times Square (43rd St. and Broadway) on Sun., April 27, from 2-4 p.m.

The post Only a Handful of Survivors Left as 100th Anniversary Approaches appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

BELMONT, Mass.—Like a utility player for his church, Very Rev. Father Raphael Andonian covered every base as pastor for two decades at Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church in Belmont.

Father Raphael Andonian

It was the church and parish center he helped construct, the one he manifested and nurtured. His death April 6 sent a pall of grief throughout his parish.

Next year would have been the 50th anniversary of his ordination in Rome.

Whether you attended his church or didn’t, you were part of his religious family, popping into places like the VFW and the Armenian newspaper offices to lend a cheerful hello. Quite often, he would be that ray of sunshine on a dark, somber day.

What was it that someone once said about death and dying? It’s not the length of time that one lives but how that life was spent. With Father Raphael, it was a life worth living and sharing. He was 73 years young.

Our paths first crossed shortly upon his arrival here from Venice, a Mekhitarist Father entrusted to the care of a parish that was refined 30-plus years by the inimitable Father Luke Arakelian. We were an Armenian Catholic family living in Somerville and deep proponents of the faith.

It was Father Luke who sent me to Vienna to study with the priests—not to become a priest per se, only to be a better Armenian Catholic. His shoes would be filled by a young aspirant and Father Raphael withstood the challenge.

“We must invite him to dinner, get to know him,” my mother suggested.

As a correspondent for the Armenian press, it was a story waiting to hatch. He appreciated the sudden exposure and a relationship grew from it.

Over the years, he shed his grace upon my family, always there in time of need. He was there at my mother’s deathbed, holding on with the last gasp until he arrived to the nursing home from 40 miles away with the Sacrament of Extreme Unction or the last rites.

Somewhere in between those two decades were periodic stops at the house for dinner, a cup of coffee, or a simple poke through the door. Father Raphael catered to the elderly, much the same way he did with children, and everyone else. He was the master of his throne with no pretentions of grandeur.

Browsing through some copies of “Hye Undanik,” his church publication, you’d find that proverbial smile in the photos. The very last issue contains a piece he wrote called “The Hidden Doubt.”

It hit home!

“Often, I ask myself this question,” he wrote. “Why do people not live in harmony with each other? Why do they not see their future and imagine what is coming?”

He ends it with what appears to be a prophecy of death, given the cancer that ravaged his body during his final days on earth. “It is precisely in this afterlife that all the aspects and stages of human life achieve their full significance.”

Maybe it’s ironic that his funeral was planned for April 11, almost immediately following the Statehouse commemoration.

Had he been there Friday, he would have taken his righteous place among the clergy, offering prayers for our genocide victims and survivors alike. And then, like he always did, Father Raphael would have played the crowd, hand extended, a kind word ventured, a beloved hug.

He would have marveled at the presence of youth, whether they were from the Sisters’ Academy or another school. The Hye Undaniks had him embracing every youngster in sight, particularly during their First Communion when they officially became members of his church.

During a recent ARS trip to the Mediterranean, one of the stops was to the Island of San Lazzaro, a sanctuary for Mekhitarists promoting our language and culture for nearly 300 years. On this visit, I was surprised to find less than a dozen priests inhabiting the monastery.

“Do you know Father Raphael?” I asked one of the priestly tour guides. “We’re from the Boston area.”

The cleric stopped in his tracks. Had I mentioned Pope Benedict, the impact would not have been any greater.

Father Raphael made annual calls here, leaving his Belmont parish behind in the best interests of spirituality, keeping the books and preserving the faith that so nurtured the man. Suffice it to say, he lived the best of both worlds, here and Italy—but under one God.

And now, he’s returning home to Venice where his body will be interred, following services here. It was his final wish.

May he always rest in eternal peace.

The post Father Raphael Andonian Left No Stone Unturned appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

By Arpi Arukian

BAYSIDE, N.Y.—The Friends of HMADS Gala Dinner Dance Committee, under the leadership of Chairpersons Maro Jamgotchian and Arek Nisanyan, has been hard at work preparing for this year’s 20^th anniversary celebration. To ensure it will be the most successful gala to date, the event will feature the vocal styling of acclaimed Armenian artist Elie Berberian and his band. The Dinner Dance, which will be held on Sat., May 3, will introduce this exciting young artist to many in the community, while delighting his legion of already devoted fans.

Elie Berberian

Born in Lebanon, Elie Berberian began his vocal training in the Conservatoire National du Liban with Nona Manoyan. He continued his musical studies at McGill University in Montreal under the renowned Maestro Tenor Stefano Algieri, and earned a master’s degree in music and performance. Berberian made his professional stage debut in 2009 as Ruggero in “La Rondine” with Opera McGill. A year later, he captured the hearts of the Puccini-loving audience in his role as Rodolfo in “La Boheme.” Since his arrival in Canada, Berberian has worked with experienced such coaches as Stephano Algieri, Michael McMahon, Patrick Hansen, François Racine, Louise Pelletier, Julian Wachner, and Dana Nigrim.

Berberian’s singing repertoire includes songs and opera arias in English, German, French, and Italian languages. Aside from his success in the operatic field, he is also an accomplished Armenian artist. Advocating the richness of Armenian musical heritage has always been Berberian’s pride and joy. Over the years, he has performed in various countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, Greece, France, Australia, the United States, and throughout Canada, where he is now settled.

The Friends Committee invites the public to experience Elie Berberian’s vocal talents first-hand at the Woodbury Country Club, where the Dinner Dance will be held. This magnificent 18-acre estate, once owned by U.S. Treasurer Ogden Mills, offers a remarkable, secluded landscape with fountains and lakeside gazebos. It offers the perfect setting for a cocktail reception with sumptuous hors d’oeuvres, followed by a full-course dinner and dancing in the club’s elegant ballroom.

For more information call the school office at (718) 225-4826; Negdar Arukian at (718) 423-4813; Siragan Varolian at (718) 631-7131; or Siran Saroyan at (718) 224-0121.

The post HMADS Gala Dinner Dance: An Elegant Evening of Celebration appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Special for the Armenian Weekly

“After March 2011, it was clear that Syria was no longer an option,” said Dr. Karnig Jozigian, as we sat down for coffee in Stepanakert.

The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that at least 50 percent of hospitals in Syria have been destroyed or severely damaged, while more than 15,000 physicians have fled the conflict and found refuge elsewhere.

Karnig Jozigian inspecting the medicine donated by the ARF’s Help Your Brother Initiative.

While Jozigian is not practicing medicine in the ghost city of Aleppo, he is adhering to the Hippocratic Oath by serving the people of another conflict zone: Artsakh (Nagorno Karabagh Republic).

In 2001, he went to Armenia to study medicine at the Yerevan State Medical University. After completing six years of education and two years of medical residency in the field of internal medicine, he briefly returned to Aleppo and completed a three-month medical training program there.

At that time, the medical sector in Syria had far more to offer than the one in Armenia. Nonetheless, guided by an inherent sense of obligation to serve the Armenian nation, and his profound love for Datevig, he returned to Armenia. Jozigian had met Datevig, a pianist from Dilijan, while they were both university students in Yerevan. By 2011, the couple was married and living in Dilijan, where Jozigian worked at the newly-established Dilijan Medical Center.

“In the summer of 2012, when Syrian Armenians started migrating to Armenia, the Republic of Armenia government announced that doctors were needed in the Independent State of Artsakh,” he said. “After receiving positive feedback from the [Armenian] Ministry of Diaspora, I visited Artsakh for the first time in my life.” During this scouting mission, he met with officials from the Ministry of Health in Stepanakert, the capital of Artsakh, as well as with the local Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) leaders. He was informed that doctors were needed in three primary locations: Lachin, Kalbajar, and Vank.

“It was love at first sight. The second I saw the mountains of Artsakh, I knew I wanted to live here,” Jozigian said.

He and his wife have been living in Vank (near the Kantsasar Monastery) for the past nine months. For the time being, they are living in one of the rooms in the hospital, while they wait to receive funds from the state to renovate their government-designated home. With assistance from the government, Datevig found a job as a piano instructor at the local school of art.

“The medical sector in Artsakh is dreadful. The vast majority of the doctors who return from Yerevan with a medical degree choose to practice in Stepanakert rather than in their own villages,” he said. “I am the only doctor in Vank and the surrounding six villages. The hospital has a staff of 20 consisting of 14 nurses, ambulance drivers, accountants, and janitors.”

The fixed income for doctors in Artsakh is 156,000 AMD (roughly $375US; however, visiting doctors receive an extra percentage (determined by their location of residency). For example, a visiting doctor receives an additional 40 percent in Stepanakert, 60 percent in Vank, and 80 percent in Lachin and Kalbajar. In the past year, around 7,200 people have visited the hospital in Vank. Around 10 percent of the patients were transferred to Stepanakert to receive the proper medical care.

“Our hospital lacks the proper infrastructure to provide full-scale medical care to our patients,” he explained. “The hospital has a laboratory for blood tests, but we do not have an X-ray device or an ultrasound machine. Even our ambulance is in abysmal condition.” Several months ago, the ARF’s Help Your Brother initiative sent $15,000 worth of medicine and medical supplies to the hospital in Vank. That supply of medicine is still being used to treat patients at Jozigian’s hospital. Over the past nine months, Jozigian has found himself in numerous emergency situations where he’s had to conduct operations and provide services that are not usually available due to the lack of infrastructure and equipment in Vank.

“Traditionally we do not deliver babies at the Vank Hospital. We refer those cases to Stepanakert,” he said. “But in the past nine months, I have had to deliver three healthy babies at our hospital, because they were emergency cases.” Despite the challenges, Dr. Karnig Jozigian affirms his commitment to serving his nation in Artsakh. “I probably would make a lot more money if I worked in Yerevan,” he said. “But I prefer the lifestyle here in Artsakh. I will do everything I can to remain here. I might even invest in farming.” Two other Syrian-Armenian doctors and one dentist have moved to Artsakh in the past year. “Aleppo is my birthplace. I have a lot of memories there. I love Syria,” he said. “But Armenia and Artsakh is my homeland. I am still adhering to the Hippocratic Oath by serving the people in Artsakh.”

The post The Hippocratic Oath of a Syrian-Armenian Doctor appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

VAZASHEN, Armenia—VivaCell-MTS and Fuller Center for Housing Armenia joined in a home-build in the village of Vazashen in the Tavush region to mark the official launch of a new project sponsored by VivaCell-MTS to assist 25 low-income families from bordering villages in the Tavush and Armavir regions.

Armenia’s bordering villages today face critical challenges, such as the need for decent housing and the lack of jobs, which in turn brings emigration and low natural reproduction that threatens the existence of these villages. This is grim for both security reasons and for the overall economy of the country. To provide assistance, to lessen critical challenges the bordering villages face, and to make the borderline areas of Armenia a good place to live and raise a family, VivaCell-MTS made an investment of 55 million AMD. The Fuller Center for Housing Armenia has undertaken the implementation of a new program through which 10 families from bordering villages will be assisted to complete their half-built homes, and 15 will be assisted to renovate their homes.

The partnership between VivaCell-MTS and Fuller Center for Housing Armenia team goes back to 2007 and has had fruitful outcomes; 25 families in Armenia already enjoy the happiness of decent housing. Through a striking example of corporate social responsibility, VivaCell-MTS has made a secure social investment in the protection and development of Armenian communities and in eliminating poverty housing in Armenia.

“Our people on the borders are our country’s live shield, and it is our duty to give them a helping hand for a better living. Every stone we build here, every roof we enhance is a strong armor for our country,” VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian said. “Together with Fuller Center for Housing Armenia, we will help these people realize their dream—finish their homes and raise their children in safe and decent conditions.”

“The productivity of the partnership with VivaCell-MTS has been proved through the experience of many years, through the real difference made in the lives of many Armenian families,” said the president of Fuller Center for Housing Armenia, Ashot Yeghiazaryan. “This is a unique partnership based on corporate social responsibility towards the communities, the families, who are living side by side with us in a community that we ourselves are a part of. Through the generous support of VivaCell-MTS, 25 families from bordering villages will have better housing conditions. Instead of thinking of emigrating from Armenia in search of better standards of living, they will remain in their homes and foster the security of the country borders.”

VivaCell-MTS (K-Telecom CJSC) is Armenia’s leading mobile operator, having the widest 2G/3.75G/4G network reach and a wide range of voice and data services all across Armenia. In a short period of time since its launch in 2005, VivaCell-MTS has built a nationwide network and a considerable customer base. VivaCell-MTS drives innovation and aims at being at the forefront of any development serving the Armenian mobile communications market. The company follows the guidance provided by ISO 26000 (International Standard of Social Responsibility). For more information, visit www.mts.am.

Fuller Center for Housing Armenia is a non-government, charitable organization that supports community development in the Republics of Armenia and Artsakh by assisting in building and renovating simple, decent, and affordable homes, as well as advocating the right to decent shelter as a matter of conscience and action. It also provides long-term, interest-free loans to low-income families. The monthly repayments flow into a Revolving Fund, which is used to help more families, thereby providing a financial foundation for sustainable community development. In its five years of operation, the Fuller Center for Housing Armenia has assisted 278 families. For more information, visit www.fullercenterarmenia.org or e-mail fcarmenia@fullercenterarmenia.org.

The post VivaCell-MTS and Fuller Center Bring Housing to 25 More Families appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Angeghakot, a village of about 2,000-3,000 people (figures vary) is in southern Armenia, about 10 km. from Sisian, the regional capital of Syunik province. Travelers from Yerevan on the way to Karabagh pass by Angeghakot, then Sisian and Goris, before entering the Lachin Corridor. The drive from Yerevan to Angeghakot takes roughly 4 hours. With an altitude of about 6,000 feet, summer days are hot but evenings can be quite cool. Thus, unlike some other regions of Armenia, little fruit is grown here. Agriculture consists primarily of raising livestock and planting grains.

Tomb of Shushanik, the daughter of Vartan Mamikonian

Upon entering Angeghakot, we asked a few people for directions to some historical sites. In each instance we were advised to find Mayolis Karapetyan, the repository of Angeghakot’s history and culture.

Angeghakot village scene

We found him, and learned that Angeghakot’s history dates to the Stone and Bronze Ages. In or near the village are monuments attributed to the Vartanants War against Persia for the defense of Armenian Christianity against paganism. Mayolis took us to the small Sourp Vartan Church, half built into the side of a hill in back of some stone-cutting machinery. It is said the site was visited by Saint Vartan’s surviving soldiers returning from the Battle of Avarayr (451 AD), though the sign on the church indicates it was built in the 13^th century.

Some believe that Saint Vartan may be buried there, although there are a number of such sites purporting to contain his remains. Mayolis believes he has

Grave of freedom fighter ca. 1900, Angeghakot

evidence that Vartan Mamikonian is buried in the valley below, under what appears to be a large man-made hill. In a cemetery in Angeghakot is a tomb said to have been constructed by Vartan Mamikonian’s daughter, Shushanik, for her father. Instead, Shushanik is the one who is buried there. Also in the cemetery are pre-Christian monuments converted into Christian tombstones after the adoption of Christianity as a state religion. Indeed, the medieval historian Stepanos Orbelian (1250–1305) indicates that Christianity was first brought to Armenia in Syunik by Saint Bartholomew.

In 1699, Israel Ori (1658-1711), born in nearby Sisian, but who spent a couple of decades in Europe learning European military science, returned to Armenia to help liberate the country from the Persians and Ottoman Turks. He visited Angeghakot to meet Melik Safraz. (Meliks were local princes who ruled their regions but often vied with each other for control.) Ori succeeded in getting the meliks to put aside their differences and present a united petition to Russian Czar Peter the Great and the Pope to

Entrance to St. Vartan church, Angeghakot

intervene militarily in Armenia to save Armenia’s Christians. Unfortunately, Ori died prematurely in 1711 without implementing his plan. Ori’s efforts inspired a Persian-Armenian revolutionary, Joseph Emin (1726-1809), to enlist foreign help to liberate Armenia, but this too failed. According to Mayolis, Ori’s meeting with the meliks took place at Melik Safraz’s home in the outskirts of Angeghakot. The house no longer stands, he said, but perhaps during our next visit we will visit the site of Melik Safraz’s house anyway.

This region was a battleground for other revolutionaries who fought to preserve the region’s independence. In the 1720’s, David Beg defended this region. His commander, Mkhitar Sbarabed, who was assassinated, is buried in the valley of Khnsoresk less than an hour from Angeghakot.

There are three other medieval churches in the village: Sourp Astvatsatsin, Sourp Stepanos, and Sourp Hazaraprkich. Next to Sourp Astvatsatsin are buried officers who served under General Antranig while defending this region in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Elsewhere in the village is a small cemetery with the graves of Armenian fedayees (freedom fighters) from the same era. I’m told these soldiers likely fought under General Keri (or one of the other military leaders who helped the villagers defend this territory). One tombstone portrays a soldier standing next to his rifle.

Near a World War II memorial are the graves of Angeghakot’s martyrs who died fighting for Artsakh’s liberation. Every village in Armenia has such a cemetery.

While Angeghakot does not have huge cathedrals and fortresses (though there are some in the mountains nearby), it boasts an extremely rich and ancient history—if the visitor knows to ask. While there are no

Angeghakot scene

tourist amenities, hotels, or restaurants in the village, these are available 20 minutes away in Sisian. But Angeghakot does offer a window into Armenian history, current village life, and Armenia’s constant struggle for independence.

While enjoying refreshments at the end of our visit, Mayolis’s young granddaughter recited for us, from memory, some of his poetry, while two older grandsons split wood in preparation for the coming winter. With no means to get his poetry published, my wife Lisa and I offered to publish a limited number of copies upon our return to the U.S. Our friend, Berge Jololian, who makes three to four trips annually to donate computers to schools in the region (see www.facebook.com/techedarmenia), acted as an intermediary, bringing manuscripts back and forth. We have printed a limited number of Mayolis Karapetyan’s poetry booklets at no expense to the author. The booklets, in Armenian and including a photograph of the author with his granddaughter, contain 35 poems. It is likely that we’ll publish more copies in Armenia.

The booklets are available for $10 plus $2 shipping and handling. All proceeds will go to the author. For more information, call Joseph Dagdigian at (978) 772-9417. The books are also available from the National Association of Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) by calling (617) 489-1610.

Angeghakot poet Mayolis Karapetyan with granddaughter

The post Angeghakot and its Poet appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich.—When the call is sounded to rally the metro Detroit area Armenian community to stand fast for justice, activist Ned Apigian makes his presence known.

The Dearborn Heights city councilman is equally active in partisan politics at the local and state levels of government and has embarked on a new mission in announcing he will seek to win the 11th State House District nomination in the Democratic August primary.

Political observers say Apigian’s candidacy to the Michigan State Legislature offers the talent and knowledge gained as a local municipality official. “I know I can help Michigan regain its past laurels that fell victim to the declining manufacturing industry. As a professional architect and community planner I offer a much needed talent to get this state back to better days,” he stressed as he announced his bid to seek the State House seat in the heavily  Democratic voting district.

The 11th House district includes the communities of Inkster, Garden City, Westland, parts of Livonia and Dearborn Heights.

Apigian’s expertise in city planning and support for public education needs gives the Dearborn Heights councilman solid footing in his “platform for victory.”  With that knowledge, Apigian also is enlisting campaign and financial help from metro Detroit Armenians to run an effective winning campaign in the sprawling Wayne County district.

Through the years, Apigian has been in the forefront of the Armenian scene so now would be the time for the community to give support to one of their own who seeks to serve in the State Legislature.

I first met Ned in 1960 at a meeting of the Mourad-Zavarian AYF. As a transfer to the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Antranig Gomideh. It was the closure of my active AYF life and Ned’s first in Mourad-Zavarian. I was impressed with his ARF knowledge and quickly learned the young man from Niagara Falls took his oath as a Dashnaktsagan  at age 16 from legendary ARF field worker Arthur Giragosian, who was noted for his motivational lectures on the free Armenian movement.

“At that time, there was no AYF in Niagara Falls, so I took the oath of the ARF,” Apigian relates.

Before the bid to pursue degrees in architecture at the University of Detroit and a masters in urban planning from Wayne State University, Apigian served for two years in the U.S. Marine Corps, which he credits for spearheading his keen discipline skills in organizational planning.

In addition to his degree skills, Apigian was awarded with a license as a community planner by the state of Michigan—an honor that gave him access to work with the design team in developing the expansion of Detroit’s Cobo  Hall Convention Center—and a two-year stint on civic developments in Saudi Arabia where he learned Arabic to add to his fluent Armenian language.

At the ARF level, Apigian served four times as a member of the ARF Central Committee and a delegate to an ARF conference in Beirut, Lebanon.

Ned and his wife, Roxy (Madoian) of Providence are the proud parents of daughter Heather Krafian and four grandchildren living in Belmont, Mass.

In looking ahead to the heated contest in the 11th House District  primary, Apigian repeats his pride at being a dedicated Armenian and Dashnak for 60 years.  Presently, the active Azadamart Gomideh member urges Armenians to be equally active in the mainstream American  political parties of their  choice, be it Democrat or Republican.

Persons who want to support Apigian’s bid for the State House can send their political contributions to Committee-to-Elect Ned Apigian, with checks addressed to CTE – Ned  Apigian, P.O. Box 32, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127-0032.

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Dr. Valentina Calzolari, Professor of Armenian Studies at the University of Geneva, will present an illustrated lecture entitled “Dying to Bring the Armenians Close to God: A New Reading of the Martyrdom of the Rhipsimian Virgins,” on Thursday, May 1, 2014, at 7:30 p.m. at the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), 395 Concord Avenue, Belmont, Mass. This lecture is co-sponsored by the Mashtots Chair in Armenian Studies at Harvard University, the Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA), and NAASR.

Valentina Calzolari

The history of the conversion of Armenia by Agathangelos (5th c.) is focused on the core idea that the Armenians are a chosen people and that they are inscribed in the providential plan of God. For its author, writing Armenian history was not only a way to build a collective memory and to give a coherent portrait of the past, but also a means to renew the covenant between the Armenians and God. In this account, two martyrdoms are at the origin of the shift of the Armenians from the “mist of darkness” of paganism to Christianity: the martyrdom of Gregory the Illuminator, a martyr who did not die, but who “entered the gates of death and returned by the will of God”; and the martyrdom of some consecrated women, the Rhipsimian virgins. According to the text, by the shedding of the blood of these virgin women, “the land of Armenia has been visited” and “the Armenians were brought close to God.”

This lecture will attempt to understand the complex relationship between the valorization of female virginity in Late Antiquity, martyrdom, and collective salvation. The bodies of the Rhipsimian virgins are called “Temples of God” and their murder by the king Trdat is considered as the profanation of a sacred space, the punishment of which was the loss, for the king, of his human nature.

Valentina Calzolari Bouvier is Professor of Armenian Literature and Language at the University of Geneva, where she established the first Swiss chair in Armenian Studies, offering a full curriculum in both ancient and modern (western and eastern) Armenian languages and literatures, at the BA, MA, and PhD levels. She is the current president of the Association Internationale des Etudes Arméniennes and of the Association pour l’Etude de la Littérature Apocryphe Chrétienne, and is a Visiting Scholar at Harvard’s Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.

More information about this program may be had by calling (617) 489-1610, faxing (617) 484-1759, e-mailing hq@naasr.org, or writing to NAASR, 395 Concord Ave., Belmont, MA 02478.

The post Valentina Calzolari to Speak on Martyrdom of Rhipsimian Virgins at NAASR appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

City of Boca Raton Proclaims April 24, 2014, Armenian Martyrs’ Day

BOCA RATON, Fla. – Hundreds of members, friends and human rights activists from the South Florida Armenian American community will gather at St. David Armenian Church this week to commemorate the 99th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Armenians around the world commemorate the genocide on April 24, when in 1915 Turkish authorities arrested some 250 Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople.  Thereafter, Armenians were uprooted from their homes and forced to march for hundreds of miles, depriving them of food and water, to the desert of what is now Syria.  Over 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children perished from 1915-1923 in what historians recognize as the Armenian Genocide.  While 23 countries have officially recognized the events of the period as genocide, Turkey denies the word genocide as an accurate description of the events.  In recent years, it has faced repeated calls to accept the events as genocide, but has refused to do so.

Last week, Susan Haynie, Mayor of Boca Raton, issued a proclamation naming April 24, 2014, as Armenian Martyrs’ Day and calling upon the citizens of Boca Raton “to join all Armenians worldwide to observe the 99^th commemoration of Martyr’s Day in the hope that these days of infamy will never be forgotten.”

This year’s commemoration follows on the heels of the April 12^th Walk Against Genocide in Mizner Park, a walkathon organized to raise funds for genocide awareness, community outreach and advocacy for more comprehensive genocide education in Florida public schools.

David Silvers, Candidate for Florida House District 89, addressed the crowd of over 250 walkathon participants: “The actions of the Ottoman Empire perpetrated on the Armenian people was and is an affront to all of humanity.  I strongly believe that politics shouldn’t get in the way of facts.  It’s a fact 1.5 million Armenians died as a result of this genocide.  It’s a fact that national, state, and local governments all over the world have recognized this genocide.  It’s a fact that all of the lives lost mattered and refusing acknowledgment of this genocide is the type of political gamesmanship that’s beneath the American people.”

The commemorative service and program will take place at St. David Armenian Church in Boca Raton on Thursday, April 24, beginning promptly at 7:00 p.m.  All are welcome.

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“Easter is supposed to be tomorrow, but it doesn’t feel like Easter. Before even thinking what shoes to wear, they lost their feet. They lost their little hands that used to color the Easter eggs every year before the bloody mortars came knocking at their school gate. Why? Just because they decided to go to school that day,” said Ghattas Eid from Maaloula, about the bombing of the Armenian Catholic School on April 15 in Damascus. “They could’ve been my children or anyone else’s children. It is just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Happy Easter? I don’t think so.”

Easter in Aleppo

In the most difficult of circumstances, Armenians celebrated Easter across the different cities of Syria. After three years of hell in Syria, they continue to embrace their cultural identity and retain their faith.

Thousands gather for Easter Sunday Mass at St. Asdvadzadzin in Aleppo.

Syrian Armenians at the St. Astvadzadzin Church Hall in Aleppo.

Sunday School children of the Armenian Evangelical Martyrs’ Church (Nahadagatz) in Aleppo

Who will win the egg tapping?

We are all winners when we are united!

At Easter Sunday Mass, Rev. Haroutioun Selimian honors the consul general of the Republic of Armenia, Garen Krikorian with a Silver Plate at the Armenian Evangelical Bethel Church of Aleppo. (See www.youtube.com/watch?v=MI48LbBI2bE&feature=share)

Easter Sunday Mass at St. Hagop Church in Qamishli

Hundreds gather at St. Hagop Church in Qamishli to celebrate Easter.

Easter Sunday Mass in Latakia. The president of Haigazian University, Rev. Paul Haidotsian, visits the displaced of Kessab in Latakia.

Hundreds gather to hear Rev. Paul Haidotsian’s sermon during Easter Sunday Mass.

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Renowned 19^th-century Armenian writer Raffi (Hagop Melik Hagopian) begins his 1880 classic Khentuh (The Fool)with the following simple, yet significant words: “While the prudent stand and ponder, the fool has already crossed the river.”

The novel, which calls for a national awakening among Armenians, is just as relevant in its message today as it was nearly a century ago when it was written. While Raffi’s fool struggled to escape the shackles of oppression and looked to form a national homeland for the Armenian people, today’s fools try to sustain and develop that very same homeland envisioned in the book.

Sosé Thomassian and Allen Yekikian

Sosé Thomassian and Allen Yekikian were two such fools.

Born and raised in the United States, where the two were devoted members of the Armenian community, the young couple moved to Armenia in early 2013. While they had set out together to live their dream in the land of their ancestors, their lives were tragically cut short on May 10, 2013, in a fatal car accident on their way to Georgia.

Sosé and Allen’s passing sent shockwaves throughout Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora, prompting many to question how such a tragedy could occur to two such exemplary, loving people. But perhaps more importantly, their story inspired a generation to engage with Armenia, to actively try to be a part of its development and progress. Moreover, it motivated and encouraged a small, yet dedicated group of young men and women to leave their diasporan realities and to make the move to Armenia to realize their dreams.

Sosé and Allen were part of a new generation of fools who chose to cross the river and not to stand prudently idle. And today, that generation keeps Sosé and Allen’s dream alive.

Organized by the Armenia Tree Project in collaboration with Sosé and Allen’s Legacy Foundation, work began on a living, breathing memorial forest that will eventually contain some 50,000 trees.

On Sat., April 18, 2014, over a hundred volunteers, young and old, came together in the small Armenian village of Stepanavan to help preserve Sosé and Allen’s memory and to continue their dream of a better Armenia. Organized by the Armenia Tree Project in collaboration with Sosé and Allen’s Legacy Foundation, work began on a living, breathing memorial forest that will eventually contain some 50,000 trees.

Over a hundred volunteers, young and old, came together in the small Armenian village of Stepanavan to help preserve Sosé and Allen’s legacy.

The tree planting proved how much of an impact the couple had on people from all walks of life. From the group of young Birthright Armenia volunteers to locals from Stepanavan, Yerevan, Proshyan, and even as far away as Artsakh, Saturday’s planting of the memorial forest was evidence that Sosé and Allen’s dream is shared among all Armenians.

Sosé and Allen’s roots were deeply entrenched in Armenia, just as the trees planted in their memorial forest will be in the near future. And it is that very same forest that will help preserve their memory and inspire a new generation of fools in the years to come.

The tree planting proved how much of an impact the couple had on people from all walks of life.

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Three Custom Packages Introduced for Summer 2014

The AGBU Performing Arts Department is now accepting applications to its flagship summer initiative, the Musical Armenia Program (MAP). This year, MAP is introducing three new program packages and is encouraging international artists of all backgrounds, in addition to Armenian musicians, to participate. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2014.

MAP offers an exciting three-week cultural immersion experience and a comprehensive curriculum that connects aspiring and professional artists with Armenia’s rich musical heritage. While living in Yerevan, participants take master classes and specialized lectures, train and network with top musicians, perform at local venues, and attend concerts and festivals. They also tour the country, visiting historical landmarks and traveling to the Nagorno Karabagh Republic on an optional trip.

Several past MAP participants have extended their stay in Armenia. Violinist Wanes Moubayed is currently teaching at two music schools in Yerevan, collaborating with the Sistema Armenia Children’s Orchestra and studying at the Komitas State Conservatory. Arni Guiragossian is also studying at the Komitas State Conservatory and plays the flute in the State Youth Orchestra. While violinist Arpi Dekrmenjian is enrolled at Yerevan State University, pianist/singer Berna Karagulian is leading tours at the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Books.

Shaghig Amy Kazandjian, a native Canadian and MAP 2013 participant, landed a contract with the Yerevan State Opera and Ballet Orchestra after meeting its director at a MAP event. “Through MAP, I was able to explore Armenia and embrace my culture, history, and identity in ways I never could have imagined,” she said. “Being able to play the French horn with the orchestra is a once in a lifetime opportunity that I know I will look back on years from now as one of the highlights of my career—thanks to the AGBU.”

In just three years since its launch, MAP has already expanded rapidly, and in summer 2014 applicants may choose from three new customized packages. The Full Immersion package is open to students ages 18 and older, who will live with peers in an AGBU residence and enroll in all MAP courses and activities. The MAP Academy is open to students ages 15 and older who will secure their own housing and enjoy all of the benefits of the Full Immersion package. The MAP Lecture Series package also welcomes participants 15 and older who will secure their own housing and enroll in 12 lectures exclusively on the history of Armenian music.

MAP applicants must have training in composition or conducting or as instrumentalists or vocalists. The program dates are July 14-Aug. 3, 2014, and the application to apply for financial aid is June 5.

The AGBU Performing Arts Department is happy to introduce prospective participants to MAP alumni to learn more about their experiences with the program. For more information, e-mail musicalarmenia@agbu.org or call (212) 319-6383, extension 106.

To apply today, visit www.agbu.org/musicalarmenia. For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, visit www.agbu.org.

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Area middle and high school students create life-size human forms in response to the tragedy

LINCROFT, N.J.—A collaborative art installation consisting of more than 160 life-sized human forms will be on display April 6 through July 14 at the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights and Genocide Education at Brookdale Community College (chhange) to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Rwanda Genocide.

The forms, made of foam and designed by area middle and high school students, are part of a collaborative effort to learn about and respond creatively to the tragedy.

The exhibit, entitled “100 Days of Silence,” corresponds with the 100 days in 1994 when some 800,000 Rwandan men, women and children were killed by Hutu extremists. The title is a reference to the failure of the global community to intervene.

The forms, made of foam and designed by area middle and high school students, are part of a collaborative effort to learn about and respond creatively to the tragedy.

“The exhibit is a chance for students, educators and community members to reflect upon the human experience of the Rwandan people and the silence of the world,” according to Dale Daniels, executive director of chhange. “It is a powerful statement from our children and our community about genocide and humanity.”

The exhibit is open to individuals from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Groups, as well as those wishing to view the exhibit at additional times, are asked to call 224-1889 to make arrangements.

“It’s a very powerful statement. The kids really got it.”

Daniels credits retired art educator Arlene Smelson for making it possible to tell the Rwandan story in such a unique way.

Earlier in the year, art educators were invited to a workshop at the college where they received a comprehensive lesson plan on the genocide and the foam forms their classes would use to interpret it. During the workshop, they heard from Rwandan survivor Jacqueline Murekatete, who shared her eyewitness testimony. The students were able to hear her testimony through video that the art educators brought back to the classroom.

“It’s a very powerful statement. The kids really got it,” Daniels said.

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LONDON, England—The publishing world descended on London from April 8-10 with exhibitors from around the world discussing and negotiating contracts at the London Book Fair. For the second consecutive year, Armenians were represented in a unique formula under the banner of the Armenian Pavilion, incorporating authors and publishers from Armenia and the diaspora.

London Book Fair 2014

After a difficult start to this journey and with no funds allocated, it required imagination, coordination, and fortitude to see the bigger picture. The Armenian Pavilion would not have been repeated for a second year were it not for the generosity of Raffi Tanielian and his sister Nyree who funded a very large portion of the project, allowing the Pavilion Committee the ability to concentrate on the core work needed to create the Pavilion. With additional contributions from the Benlian Trust, Armenian Relief Society (London), and individual members of the community, the project finally came to life.

This year the Pavilion registered 33 exhibitors from Armenia, France, Germany, Lebanon, Turkey, United Kingdom, and United States—compared to 12 registered exhibitors last year. For the first time at any exhibition, the Hrant Dink Foundation and the Aras Publishing House from Istanbul were present, and have promised to return next year. Rouben Galichian and Ara Sarafian of the Gomidas Institute also participated.

(L-R) Charle Malas, Varujan Vosganian, and Hagop Havatian

The Armenian Pavilion Committee, headed by Charle Malas, owes a debt of gratitude to the Armenian Embassy in London and the Armenian Community Council of the United Kingdom for their support. The embassy, in particular, liaised with the Ministry in Yerevan and hosted a special visit by Armenian Deputy Minister of Culture Nerses Ter-Vardanyan.

The Pavilion exhibited a rich array of books in all categories and generated significant interest from visitors from around the world, which included many from Turkey—perhaps breaking down the barriers at a literary level. Yet, much of the buzz surrounding the Pavilion was due to the “First Armenian Literary Agency” from Armenia, which held majority of its meetings at the Pavilion, thereby adding to the attraction of the stand and the books on display. Interestingly, organizers of the Frankfurt Book Fair requested that this formula be exported and used at the exhibition in Germany.

One of the highlights during the fair was the surprise visit by Varujan Vosganian, the former Romanian Minister of Economy and Finance. A politician, economist, essayist, and a poet, Vosganian is a published author and hopes to exhibit his books at the Pavilion next year.

The London Book Fair is an important event in the publishing calendar. It resonates literary wealth and global exposure. It is considered the second most important book fair after Frankfurt, which is the world’s largest. The purpose of the Armenian Pavilion is to share Armenian culture, literature, and history with the world through books and through our authors and writers, who have been scribbling away in the shadows for far too long. It is up to the Armenian communities throughout the world to work collectively and give our publishers, authors, and writers the platform to launch into the global markets. See you in 2015.

For more information, photos, or to leave a comment, visit www.facebook.com/ArmenianPavilion. Publishers, authors, and booksellers interested in participating in Armenian Pavilion 2015 should e-mail armenian.pavilion@gmail.com.

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Turkish Prime Minister’s Condolences Ring Hollow as His Embassy Orchestrates Celebration Mocking Murder of Over 2 Million Armenians, Pontians and Syriacs

WASHINGTON–Hundreds of local families held a silent vigil in front of the Turkish Embassy on April 24th, protesting the Turkish Government’s denial of the Armenian Genocide and calling for justice for this crime. The solemn remembrance was met by several dozen anti-Armenian counter-protesters – who blasted Turkish music in a shameful celebration of the murder of 2 million Armenians, Pontian Greeks and Syriacs at the hands of the Ottoman Turkish Government form 1915 to 1923.

A scene from the protest (Photo by Justin Kaladjian)

“We are here to tell Turkey that we stand up for the truth and we will continue to do so every year until justice is served for the Armenian Genocide,” said Hagop Simonian, Chairman of the Armenian Youth Federation Washington Ani Chapter, which organized the annual protest. “With the support of our community, we see a growing number of youth joining us every year – and that speaks volumes as we expand the international battle to defend the rights of the Armenian nation.”

The dances and cheers by Turkish counter-protesters to pop-music pumped out of speakers powered from the Turkish Embassy stood in stark contrast to the PR plans of Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan, who sought, through a statement of “condolence” issued just one day before, to repackage his denials under the banner of “shared pain.” The timing and sentiments expressed in his remarks are widely seen as a disingenuous ploy to undermine efforts to secure international affirmation and reparations for the Armenian Genocide.

“The Turkish Prime Minister on the one hand is trying – in a rather clumsy and transparently cynical manner – to present himself as some sort of peacemaker by repackaging his denials in a more sophisticated way, but at the same time his Embassy in Washington is supporting protests cruelly mocking the victims of the Armenian Genocide,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “The fact is that Turkey is escalating its denials of this crime.”

A highlight of the 2014 protest was the participation by the Hye Riders Motorcycle Club, over a dozen of whom rode some 3,000 miles from Southern California over a four day period to stand with the Greater Washington DC community against Turkey’s lies. The group rode past Armenian and Turkish protesters along Washington’s historic Massachusetts Avenue with Armenian flags waving.

A scene from the protest (Photo by Justin Kaladjian)

“We are here to support the DC Armenian Community and to let them know that we are not backing away in the face of Turkish lies,” said Hye Riders president Berdj Kasbarian. “Whether it’s 99 years, 110 or more – Armenians stand together united and a cause like this will continue until we get justice.” Established in 1999, the organization is known for its annual participation in Southern California Armenian Genocide protests and for their generosity for a broad range of community initiatives. Asked if they will be able relax and tour DC for a few days after their long trip, Kasbarian declined noting that the group will be hurrying back to Los Angeles to support the AYF San Fernando Valley Sardarabad Chapter “Cycle Against Denial” bike-a-thon, taking place Sunday, April 27th.

An important goal of the protest was to spotlight the strength and vitality of the Armenian nation in the face of Turkey’s genocide acts – powerfully relayed through the innovative “#TurkeyFailed” social media campaign, launched by the AYF Eastern Region earlier in the week. “#TurkeyFailed because I am alive today,” read one sign carried by a chapter member; “My Grandma survived the Armenian Genocide – #TurkeyFailed,” read another as protesters stood defiant against the Turkish Government.

A scene from the protest (Photo by Justin Kaladjian)

Following the demonstration, Armenian Americans gathered at the Armenian Embassy to hold a Requiem Service in memory of Armenian Genocide victims, presided by Rev. Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian of Soorp Khatch Armenian Church and Rev. Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan of St. Mary Armenian Church and Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Legate of the Eastern Diocese. His Excellency Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia Tatoul Markarian offered remarks as Washington DC Homenetmen Scouts stood at attention. Following the service, attendees gathered at Soorp Khatch Armenian Church for an expanded Requiem service and Madagh, prepared by the Soorp Khatch Armenian Church Ladies Guild and the Armenian Relief Society.

Photos by Justin Kaladjian

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His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan and the Religious and Executive Councils announce with sorrow the passing of Onnic Marashian, a long-time servant of the Armenian Church. He was a Pillar of the Prelacy and was awarded the Prince of Cilicia insignia in recognition of his many years of service to the Armenian Church and the Eastern Prelacy. Onnic died on April 22, after a short illness.

Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian, of blessed memory, decorates Onnic Marashian with the Prince of Cilicia insignia, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the Holy See of Cilicia, in May 1996.

A National Funeral (Azkayin Taghoum) will take place at Sts. Vartanantz Church, 461 Bergen Boulevard, in Ridgefield, N.J., on Sat., April 26, with visiting from 10-11 a.m., and funeral services at 11 a.m., with the Prelate, Archbishop Oshagan, officiating. Interment will follow at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus. A memorial luncheon will be offered at Sts. Vartanantz Church.

Onnic is survived by his wife, Vergine; his daughter Hera and her husband John Williams; son Mardic and his wife Carol; and five grandchildren. A son, Asbed, and daughter-in-law, Sosy, and a brother, Joseph, predeceased him.

Onnic Marashian served on the Prelacy’s Executive Council for many years beginning in 1979 and continuing on until 1999. During his tenure he served as the council’s secretary for a number of years and as its chairman from 1994-99. He served as a delegate to the World General Assembly in Antelias, Lebanon; was elected to the Central Executive in Antelias; and served as a delegate to the Prelacy’s National Representative Assembly. The Prince of Cilicia medal, the highest civilian award offered by the Holy See of Cilicia, was presented to him in May 1996.

Marashian was a well-known specialist in the energy industry and was employed for many years by the McGraw-Hill Company, where he served as editor-in-chief of the influential publication Platt’s Oilgram. Following his retirement, McGraw-Hill retained him as a consultant for many years. He is the author of numerous articles in his field of expertise, where he was an internationally recognized, respected, and honored colleague.

In lieu-of-flowers donations may be made to the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America and to Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church.

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YEREVAN—Spring is in the air and Armenia Tree Project (ATP) has already beautified 110 communities by planting 22,000 trees through its Community Tree Planting (CTP) program. The first project took place in Artsakh where Syrian-Armenian refugees planted ATP fruit trees in Kovsakan. Each year hundreds of communities are given fruit and decorative trees through the CTP program. This year, seeking to provide fruit to soldiers in Artsakh, the program included plantings at six military bases.

Vache Thomassian (standing left) joined dozens of volunteers on April 18 to plant the first trees in the Sose and Allen Memorial Forest, part of a successful social media campaign between ATP and Sose and Allen’s Legacy Foundation

A second component of ATP’s work is forestry. In a bittersweet launch of this year’s forestry planting, hundreds of volunteers joined forces in Stepanavan to plant the first seedlings in a memorial forest for Sose Thomassian and Allen Yekikian. Friends and family of the young couple, whose lives were tragically cut short last year, joined with volunteers from Birthright Armenia and Armenian Volunteer Corps to plant the initial 20,000 trees in the forest.

“The planting of these 42,000 trees this spring has brought the total number of trees planted by ATP to 4,497,869 since 1994,” reported ATP Managing Director Tom Garabedian. Reflecting on the organization’s milestone anniversary this year, he continued, “Throughout our 20 years of planting, ATP has forged invaluable partnerships with people along with dozens of organizations, businesses, and institutions to advance projects that beautify the environment.”

Collaboration with KPMG Armenia helped to green the Kentavr hippotherapy (equine therapy) center in Ushi village this season; Byblos Bank facilitated planting at the Poqr Mher military educational center for children; and the Ararat Cultural Center joined ATP to conduct a planting adjacent to Zvartnots Temple. As in previous years, ATP provided trees for the Paros Foundation that supports mothers and children, orphans, and needy families.

Plantings at schools included Yerevan State University and the State Engineering University of Armenia and in a partnership with the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), a planting at their new Eco-Training Center in Urtsador.

In a relaunch of a program designed to restore trees and create new jobs, ATP hired 35 residents from Gyumri and Azatan to conduct coppicing, a traditional method of woodland management to regenerate tree stumps. ATP has joined with the local governments to distribute the wood cuttings to needy families for fuel.

“I am extremely proud to see the coppicing project reinitiated,” Garabedian said. “It represents a collaboration between ATP and two local communities, provides income to 35 seasonal workers in those communities, beautifies and strengthens the trees that are coppiced, and delivers renewable energy supplies to low income families. Everyone benefits.”

A third component of ATP initiatives is to provide environmental education to students, local residents, and partner organizations. The Michael and Virginia Ohanian Center for Environmental Studies, which sits at the foot of ATP’s Hrant Dink Memorial Forest in Margahovit, houses classrooms and conference space, along with a small dormitory that can accommodate people for multiday conferences on the environment.

Last month, the Ohanian Center opened its doors to a two-week training on waste management organized by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) and conducted by environmental expert Martin Gabriel. ATP’s environmental education staff members Nvard Gevorgyan and Gayane Margaryan supported the training with breakout sessions and presentations. More than 60 people participated in the conference activities.

ATP’s mission is to assist the Armenian people in using trees to improve their standard of living and protect the environment, guided by the desire to promote self-sufficiency, aid those with the fewest resources first, and conserve the indigenous ecosystem. ATP’s three major programs are tree planting, environmental education, and sustainable development initiatives. For more information, visit www.armeniatree.org.

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NEW YORK—Five writers of Armenian descent were honored at the Anahid Literary Awards ceremony April 4 at an event hosted by the Armenian Center at Columbia University at Faculty House in New York.

Members of the Armenian Center at Columbia University’s Board of Directors with the 2014 Anahid Literary Award recipients. (Photo credit: Dr. Robert V. Kinoian)

Welcoming remarks were made by master of ceremonies Peter Balakian—Rebar Professor of Humanities at Colgate University, chair of the Anahid Award Committee, and the award-winning author of many books, including his memoir Black Dog of Fate. Balakian touched on the significance of the Anahid Literary Prize, which was established 25 years ago by an anonymous donor who valued the literary tradition in relation to the continuity of Armenian culture and history.The donor, said Balakian, “must have had a sense that Armenian-American culture in the 20^th century was a force of revitalization after the catastrophic events of genocide, dispersion, exile, and resettlement,” said Balakian.

He spoke about novels by Armenian-American writers during the mid-century, as well as a new generation of Armenian-American writers who emerged after World War II, including novelist Laura Kalpakian, who was the first writer to receive the Anahid Award.

“The Anahid Award continues to be an occasion for the Armenian community to be self-aware, to take note of the works of literature that are being written now, to ingest those works, and to make them part of a culture’s vitality and legacy,” said Balakian.

This year’s recipients, including Aris Janigian, Arthur Nersesian, Patricia Sarrafian Ward, Lydia Peelle (in absentia), and Michael Zadoorian, were introduced by Balakian and author Nancy Kricorian, both of whom are prior recipients of the Anahid Literary Award. Each of the authors, who are writers of novels or short fiction, read selections of their works, including The Bullet Collection, by Sarrafian Ward, who was born and raised in Beirut and is of American-Armenian-Danish heritage; Nersesian, a native New Yorker who is the author of nine novels, including The Swing Voter of Staten Island, Suicide Casanova, Manhattan, and the cult-classic The Fuck-Up; Janigian, who was born in Fresno, Calif., and is the author of two novels Bloodvine and Riverbig and co-author of Something From Nothing; and Zadoorian, who was born in Detroit, Mich., and is the author of Second Hand and The Lost Tiki Palaces of Detroit. Balakian read excerpts from Lydia Peelle’s Mule Killers and Reasons for and Advantages of Breathing.

Past winners, authors Peter Balakian and Nancy Kricorian, with the 2014 Anahid Literary Award recipients. (L-R) Peter Balakian, Patricia Sarrafian Ward, Arthur Nersesian, Nancy Kricorian, Michael Zadoorian, and Aris Janigian (Photo credit: Dr. Robert V. Kinoian)

A reception and book-signing followed, where guests had the opportunity to meet with the prize-winners.

“The Armenian Center is very proud to host the winners of the Anahid Literary Award,” said Mark Momjian, Esq. (CC’83, L ’86), chair of the Armenian Center at Columbia University. “Columbia University is a place that celebrates poetry and literature, and the list of Columbia alumni is quite remarkable—Garcia Lorca, Welty, Kerouac, Ginsberg, Wouk, as well as two Columbians who served as U.S. Poet Laureate (Louise Gluck and the late Anthony Hecht). The Armenian Center is honored to play a role in recognizing writers of Armenian ancestry who build on this tradition.”

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A scene from the commemoration

99^th Commemoration Brings Thousands to Times Square

From the proclamations of staunch support by high-ranking U.S. politicians to the touching lyrics of a talented Armenian-American rapper’s tribute to the millions of lives lost, the 99^th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide in Times Square paid homage to the victims of 1915 and sent a resounding message that denial will not be tolerated as the Centennial memorial approaches.

An impressive crowd gathered at this year’s commemoration.

An impressive crowd gathered at this year’s commemoration, an all-encompassing event organized by the Knights of Vartan for the past quarter of a century in one of the world’s most visible and attractive locations. While the missing survivors in the audience were a stark reminder that witnesses are succumbing to history, this year’s sizeable group of Armenian youth, from the disciplined Homenetmen Scouts who proudly held the Armenian flag throughout the duration of the program, to the members of the Areni Choir and the Higher Brass Band, to those draped in Armenian flags, an emphatic statement was made that the 1.5 million victims will not be forgotten and that the fight for genocide recognition will continue through new blood.

Appearing faithfully year after year, key U.S. politicians took to the stage once again to reaffirm their commitment to the Armenian cause and did not fail the community in expressing their firm support of genocide recognition, most recently in the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which this month passed Resolution 410, demanding that Turkey acknowledge the Armenian massacres in 1915 as “genocide.”

Chairman of the committee, Senator Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), said the resolution was passed in “undisputed terms,” and described the Armenian Genocide as “one of the darkest events in human history.”

“We must not make it the policy of the United States to turn our back on man’s inhumanity to man,” said Menendez. “And anyone who tries to create a nuanced approach serves only to empower those around the world who would use genocide as a weapon of war.”

Commending the Armenians for building a strong community in America, Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) recalled the founder of the Armenian Genocide Times Square commemoration, Sam Azadian, who introduced him to the history of the Armenian Genocide when he was a newly elected assemblyman.

The program culminated in an emotional performance by R-Mean

“I come here because I believe from the bottom of my heart it is our sacred duty to speak out against the terrors of the past,” said Schumer. “Remembering the innocent victims of the ‘Medz Yeghern’ helps as we strive to shine the full light of day on this historic tragedy to ensure it never happens again.”

Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.) praised the Armenians on their relentless efforts towards Armenian Genocide recognition and noted the movement’s success worldwide and in Turkey, where scholars and human rights advocates are opening sincere dialogue about the Armenian Genocide. He spoke of continued commitment not only towards genocide recognition, but humanitarian aid to the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh as well.

“Continue to do all of your hard work,” said Pallone. “Even though it’s the 99^th year, we will not stop until we see genocide recognition.”

Following in his father’s (former Councilman Peter Vallone) footsteps, Paul Vallone (D-N.Y.) said that like his father, he was proud to support the commemoration in Times Square every year. Vallone greeted the crowd in Armenian and asserted his commitment to working with Albany and Congress to make sure the Armenian Genocide is recognized.

“Armenia is our family,” said Vallone. “It’s our faith, our culture, our language, and as we stand here in the middle of the greatest city of the world, we see that the Armenian Genocide has not been forgotten.”

Traveling straight from Armenia where he attended Armenian Genocide commemorations there, Congressman Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.) said that Turkey needs to publicly accept the atrocities without the use of convoluted statements. “A genocide is a genocide and the sooner Turkey recognizes and apologizes for it, the better off everyone will be.”

Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) also expressed her efforts in Congress for U.S. recognition of the genocide and the importance of stating it by its factual name. “Genocide is genocide is genocide,” said Maloney. “Ninety-nine years is enough. We must join the world community in recognizing the genocide and the atrocious actions of Turkey.”

Remarking that it is the “responsibility” of the U.S. to recognize the Armenian Genocide, former New York City Comptroller, John Liu, said to continue the fight until an apology is achieved. “Whether it has been 100 or 200 years, this gathering will continue to take place because we know the truth and the rest of the world has to do so as well.”

“We have been here for a quarter of a century,” said Dr. Dennis Papazian, Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Michigan and Past Grand Commander of Knights of Vartan, as he looked out onto the substantial crowd in front of him in Times Square. “And we will come back for another quarter of a century until justice is done for the Armenian people.”

Also in his remarks, Papazian provided a response to the unprecedented statement of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, issued on April 23, in nine languages, in which the politician encouraged Turks and Armenians to talk to one another about the past and once again ignored the truth of the Armenian Genocide. Papazian, who has worked towards genocide recognition for decades, said he remains hopeful.

“I have witnessed a change in Turkish society where people can discuss the Armenian Genocide without being thrown in jail,” he said. “Honest Turkish scholars are now organizing conferences to shed light on the truth.”

Papazian also commented on President Barack Obama’s April 24 message, which he considered his “strongest statement” yet, despite the fact that the president continues to insist on referring to the Armenian Genocide as “Medz Yeghern.”

“Our efforts haven’t been in vain,” asserted Papazian. “We are winning the battle and we shall persist until our martyrs are properly recognized.”

The program culminated in an emotional performance by R-Mean that brought all of Times Square to its feet as members of the audience, as well as passersby, waved peace signs in the air to the lyrics of his song, “Open Wounds.” Hailing from Los Angeles, the young Armenian-American rapper has been an active supporter of genocide recognition and spreading awareness outside of the Armenian community, in particular with reputable individuals in the music and entertainment industry. He hopes to educate the masses through hip-hop music, which he considers to be the “voice of the oppressed, the voice of the struggle, and the voice of the youth.”

“The goal of the song ‘Open Wounds’ and the ‘Open Wounds 1915 Movement’ is to raise awareness for the youth who are our future and the non-Armenians who enjoy listening to good music with a positive message,” said R-Mean. “In a sense, this is doing the exact opposite of what the Turkish government has been trying to do all these years by erasing it from the history books.”

Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate of Armenian Church of America (Eastern), gave the invocation and Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), delivered the benediction. Other clergy in attendance included Very Reverend Thomas Garabedian of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of the United States and Canada and Reverend Haig Kherlopian of the Armenian Evangelical Church of New York.

Susan Rosenblatt from the Jewish Press delivered remarks, as well as Lisa Kradjian, Grand Matron of the Daughters of Vartan. Delivering remarks on behalf of the co-sponsors of the commemoration were Kim Yacoubian (AGBU), Alex Karapetian (Armenian Assembly), Hagop Ajemian (Hunchakian Party), Dr. Vagheenag Tarpinian (ADL), and Anahid Urguluyan (ANCA).

The winners of this year’s Knights of Vartan essay contest were announced at the program: Alina Toporas, 1st place (Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pa., resident), Elizabeth Ray, 2nd place (St. Agnes Academy, Memphis, Tenn., resident), and Christopher Artun, 3rd place (Townsend Harris High School, Little Neck, N.Y., resident).

The Areni Choir, under the direction of Dr. Armine Vardanian, sang the national anthems of the United States and Armenia, as well as “God Bless America,” while the Higher Brass Band, under the direction of Samuel Nersesian, accompanied the singers.

The Armenian Radio Hour of New Jersey, led by the director, Professor Vartan Abdo, streamed the event live in video format worldwide, reaching over 20,000 people, with the assistance of his dedicated volunteer staff.

The 99th Armenian Genocide commemoration in Times Square was organized by the Mid-Atlantic chapters of the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, and was co-sponsored by the Armenian General Benevolent Union, the Armenian Assembly of America, the Armenian National Committee of America, the ADL-Ramgavars, and the Armenian Council of America.

Participating organizations included the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), Prelacy of the Armenian Church, Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Presbyterian Church, the Armenian Evangelical Church, the Armenian Catholic Eparchy for U.S. and Canada, and numerous Armenian youth organizations, including the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America, the Armenian Youth Federation, the Tekeyan Cultural Association, Homenetmen Scouts, Hamazkayin Cultural Association, Noyan Tapan of Brooklyn, Rutgers University Armenian Club, Columbia University Armenian Club, and the Armenian Students’ Association.

Dr. Mary Papazian, president of Southern Connecticut State University, and Armen McOmber, New Jersey attorney, served as MCs.

The post An Armenian Rap on Times Square appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

By Katrina Shakarian

On Sat., April 12, Armenians across the tri-state area gathered at Almayass restaurant/lounge in Manhattan for a “Fundraiser for Kessab,” and raised nearly $4,000 in aid to Syrian-Armenians displaced by the current rebel incursion into the northwestern province of Latakia. The fundraiser was co-sponsored by the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of New York and the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) New York chapter.

A scene from the fundraiser

Latakia includes Kessab (Kasab), an Armenian-Christian village on the Mediterranean Sea, that until recently was unscathed by the infighting and destruction that has transformed other sections of the country. All of the area’s residents, mostly Armenians, were forced to evacuate when rebel forces launched their coastal offensive from Turkey in March. Approximately 1,550 displaced families from Kessab have taken refuge in the city of Latakia, which is under Syrian government control. Kessab Armenians have joined the ranks of approximately two million Syrians rendered refugees by this conflict, now in its fourth year.

Present at the fundraiser were master of ceremonies Valot Atakhanian of ANC-NY and Father Nareg Terterian, a native of Kessab, and the current pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Douglaston, N.Y. Father Nareg relayed up-to-date information about the local Armenian population, attained from his contacts on the ground. Lebanese-Armenian singer and musical director Kevork Hadjian closed the program with song.

Kevork Hadjian (R) closed the program with song.

For Armenians, the emptying of this historic swath of land, perhaps permanently, stirs up painful memories of the 1915 genocide from which their ancestors escaped; they survived and sought refuge in Kessab’s idyllic landscape. Tony Vartanian of ANC-NY thanked attendees for contributing to the fundraiser and shared news of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s recent adoption of the Armenian Genocide Resolution. Spearheaded by New Jersey Senator Robert Menendez (D), the resolution seeks to ensure that America’s foreign policy reflects and reinforces the lessons, documented in the U.S. record, of the still-unacknowledged genocide.

Although this event was a success, the important work of supporting Syrian-Armenians in their time of need continues. Both New York Chapters of ANC and AYF encourage readers to stay involved.

The post ANC-NY Holds Fundraiser for Kessab appeared first on Armenian Weekly.