WORCESTER, MASS.—“Your church. Your nation. Engage!” These words served as a backdrop and motivational tool for delegates attending the Prelacy’s New England Conference on Feb. 21.

Close to 50 guests from 8 churches turned out at Holy Trinity Church, representing trustee boards and National Representative Assembly (NRA) circles.

Delegates attending the Prelacy’s New England Conference on Feb. 21

His Grace Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan opened the day with prayer and commended the group for making the trip, despite winter’s fury. More snow had been predicted that afternoon.

The focal point of the discussion was the Centennial observances in New York City and Washington, D.C., along with the imminent visit by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I in May.

Delegates reviewed plans inside their own church communities.

One by one, delegates stood up to review plans inside their own church communities: concerts, rallies, theater productions, marches, flag-raising ceremonies, visits to schools, libraries, and historical societies—the list went on. It almost seemed like one community was trying to outdo the other in a compelling sort of way.

All signposts pointed to NYC on April 26 for what appears to be an eclectic observance of unified proportions, resulting in a joint memorial service and march to Times Square—rain or shine.

A serious smile broke out on Srpazan Choloyan’s face as the delegation of guests outlined their agendas.

“In order to gain any notice in the outside world, we need thousands, not hundreds, of people,” he emphasized. “The papers and TV stations will not pay attention to our cause if the crowd does not meet their expectations. It’s incumbent upon all our communities to get involved with this mission.”

His Grace Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan opened the day with prayer.

Directly behind Srpazan was a large poster of exercises taking place in D.C. that grabbed everyone’s attention: “Your church. Your nation. Engage!” His Holiness referred to that idiom a number of times throughout the day.

“What stands out emphatically is the diversity of these activities in our different cities,” said Chairman Steve Hagopian. “It seems like every venue is being covered. A milestone like this will never be repeated and we must make every effort to meet its potential.”

Providence relayed plans of hosting the AYF Olympics this year and engaging the youth in a timely fashion over Labor Day weekend. The importance of recruiting the younger generation for Times Square couldn’t have been more emphatically stated.

Applause rang out at the news of 10 busses being donated by Good Samaritan Aram Garabedian of Cranston, R.I. At last report, four of them have been filled and Rhode Island has no doubt that the other six will be occupied before the date.

Many communities throughout the state will be raising the tricolor and reading proclamations to mark the occasion, including the state’s capital in Providence.

In North Andover, the church has bonded with the Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee of Merrimack Valley in securing buses for New York City and postponing its normal observance into September with the staging of Judith Boyajian’s “Women of Ararat.”

In addition, members of the Genocide Education Committee will visit up to 15 schools and colleges to elucidate students on human rights, visit service clubs, and produce shows for community television.

Tamar Kanarian presented an in-depth report of Vehapar’s visit to Watertown and Greater Boston, outlining a rigid agenda that serves to inspire.

John Daghlian did the same for events taking place in Washington, D.C. from May 6-9, with a Divine Liturgy at the Basilica of the National Shrine at Immaculate Conception, a cultural bonanza and joint presence of both Catholicosi, culminating with a banquet Saturday night.

It is urged that reservations be made online and tickets to different venues be purchased in advance, due to the demand.

Hagopian brought the conference to a close, discussing the Hollywood production “Men of Granite,” which features his dad Andy and three other Armenians winning a state basketball championship in 1940 in Granite City. The film is scheduled for release in November.

A heap of gratitude goes out to the Women’s Guild for the scrumptious breakfast and lunch prepared for guests in what proved a perfect gesture of hospitality.

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The Armenian Genocide Centennial will reach its culmination in a three-day commemoration in the nation’s capital from Thurs., May 7 to Sat., May 9. All Armenian-American churches, compatriotic and benevolent organizations, and political groups are uniting to present one powerful voice to the American nation and the world for this supreme effort, which will be a clarion call not only for the United States, but for the world.

Powerful entities and personalities involved in commemoration

The National Council of Churches and the U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops have formally invited President Barack Obama and members of the U.S. Congress to attend the ecumenical service at the National Cathedral. Also expected to attend is President Sarkisian.

Partaking in the special service in Washington’s august National Cathedral will be the Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, and the Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I. The three days of events in Washington, D.C. will be under the auspices of the two Catholicoi who will journey from Armenia following the canonization of the martyrs of the Armenian Genocide in Holy Etchmiadzin on April 23. On that day, there will be a coordinated ringing of church bells around the world.

The Steering Committee of this Centennial Commemoration includes Primate of the Eastern Diocese Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Primate of the Western Diocese Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Diocesan Legate in Washington D.C. Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, and Centennial Commemoration Chairman Dr. Noubar Afeyan.

The National Committee includes representatives of groups from around the United States, while the sub-committees carrying out the daily work of creating the events are mostly based in Washington, D.C. The finance committee is chaired by Dr. Jean-Jacques Hajjar. Dr. Susan Pattie has been engaged as program manager.

Afeyan stresses concept of unity

Nubar Afeyan at the Dzidzernagapert Memorial in 2012

In a telephone conversation with this writer, Dr. Noubar Afeyan, chairman of the National Genocide Commemoration Committee, in emphasizing the crucial concept of unity for this important event, noted that it forms a great part of the word community. “We aspire to present important themes for this Centennial observation,” he said. “For all Armenians, there is this apprehension and inadequacy that we haven’t done enough to be worthy of the people who died a hundred years ago.” There is also the idea of “blending of the commemoration and bringing attention to what the survivors have accomplished.”

And then there is the strong belief that “we need to express our gratitude and deep appreciation to the institutions and people who have contributed so valiantly to our survival and wellbeing. Many forces stepped in and supported us, especially in the United States,” he said. “We are aspiring to the unity of the Armenian-American community, and the realization of these themes to bring together all aspects of these climactic three days in the nation’s capital.”

Afeyan is founder and CEO of Flagship Ventures, an entrepreneurial innovation firm that manages $1.5 billion in early stage venture capital, and a portfolio of 35 companies. A graduate of MIT, he is also a senior lecturer at its Sloan School of Management. He has authored several scientific publications and patents, and has lectured widely in the U.S. and internationally.

Currently he serves as chairman of the Global Agenda Council on Chemicals, Advanced Materials and Biotechnology of the World Economic Forum, and on several boards promoting economic development in Armenia.

For his numerous stellar accomplishments to America and Armenia, Afeyan has been awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2008), the Prime Minister of Armenia Commemorative Medal for Patriotic Activities (2012), the Saint Gregory the Illuminator gontag and medallion from Catholicos Karekin II (2012), and the Services to the Motherland Order from Armenian President Serge Sarkisian (2014).

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WARWICK, R.I.—The Armenian Students Association, Inc. (ASA Inc.) has extended the deadline for the Arthur Halvajian Memorial Armenian Poetry Competition to March 15. The competition, which opened in December 2014, is in its fifth year and is being organized in collaboration with the Armenian Poetry Project.

All individuals of Armenian descent, residing in the U.S. and Canada, are invited to submit their work—in English or Armenian—for the competition. Entries should be e-mailed to ArmenianPoetryProject@gmail.com with the subject heading “Halvajian ASA/APP Poetry competition.” Only one poem per individual may be submitted.

The competition groups submissions into three categories: students (ages 12-17); college age (ages 18-22); and adult (ages 23 and older). A top prize will be awarded for each of the categories in the amount of US$50 (students), $100 (college age), and $250 (adult).

Each poem submitted must be accompanied by the author’s full name, age, home address, and telephone number; students must also include school name and sponsoring teacher’s telephone number.

ASA, Inc. encourages educational pursuits by Armenians in America and the raising of their intellectual standards, provides financial assistance in the form of scholarships to deserving Armenian students, develops fellowship among them, cultivates in them the spirit of service in the public interest, and acquaints them and the entire American community with Armenian culture.

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ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program Deadline Extended to April 1

NEW YORK—The Armenian National Committee of America’s (ANCA) commitment to youth civic development was spotlighted at this year’s ground-breaking Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Youth Connect Program, which attracted more than 80 college students and recent graduates for a weekend of interactive presentation and dialogue about Armenian national identity and community development.

(L-R) Carnie Armenian, Nairi Khachatourian, Armen Sahakyan, Christina Lalama, and Adam Aktchian

The ANCA Eastern Region’s Armen Sahakyan shared some of the milestones and achievements of the ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship (LSI) Summer Program and Capital Gateway Program, as he chaired a panel that featured representatives from the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), and Habitat for Humanity.

“ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program is a great opportunity to learn more about the Armenian Cause (Hai Tahd), meet national leaders, and participate in special events in Washington, D.C.,” Sahakyan said. “It provides the interns a chance to have a direct positive effect on ANCA’s day-to-day activities, develop their professional skills, and take advantage of the great opportunities available in Washington, D.C. As an alum of the program, I can confidently recommend it to all students interested in politics, economics, media, and civic engagement.”

Inspired by participant response, the ANCA Eastern Region has extended the application deadline for the 2015 ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program to April 1, giving attendees and participating organizations the opportunity to spread the word and apply for this year’s summer session.

The LSI Program is a cornerstone of the ANCA’s nationwide efforts to educate, motivate, and activate Armenian-American youth to expand advocacy efforts in their hometowns and campuses. During the eight-week Washington program, interns live at the Capital Gateway House, located a short distance from the ANCA National Headquarters. The participants work on a wide variety of projects based on their individual interests, while gaining hands-on experiences within the American political system. A bi-weekly lecture series features guest lecturers, including members of Congress, ambassadors, and Armenian-American leaders.

Established in 1985, the ANCA Summer Internship Program is named after the late Leo Sarkisian, an ANCA Eastern U.S. leader who spearheaded grassroots activism for more than four decades. The program has hundreds of alumni across the world, spreading the message of truth and justice for the Armenian Genocide, freedom for Artsakh, and a secure, prosperous, and democratic Armenian homeland.

For applications to the LSI Program, visit http://anca.org/assets/capital_gateway/LSI_Application_2015.pdf.

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On April 25, Perspectives Ensemble, in cooperation with the Cathedral of St. John the Divine of New York, the Reverend James Kowalski, dean, and Kent Tritle, director of cathedral music, will present a one-hour concert of Armenian classical and village music and “sharagans” (church hymns) in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The concert celebrates the beauty and endurance of Armenian culture.

Zulal

Featured artists include Zulal A Cappella Trio with Teni Apelian, Yeraz Meschian, and Anais Tekerian, as well as Perspectives Ensemble harpist Alyssa Reit, and flutist and artistic director, Sato Moughalian. The concert will take place in the St. James Chapel of the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave. at West 112th St. The event is free and open to the public.

The concert will also mark the release of Perspectives Recordings’ second CD of “oror”/lullaby Armenian music for flute and harp, dedicated to the memory of all those who have “fallen asleep.”

In Armenian, Zulal means “clear water.” Zulal, the a cappella trio, takes Armenia’s village folk melodies and weaves intricate arrangements that pay tribute to the rural roots of the music while introducing a sophisticated lyricism and energy. Zulal’s singers have been singing together since 2002.

The trio celebrates the trials and joys of old Armenian village life: budding romances in elevated gardens, the disappointments of hapless suitors, secret messages placed upon the western winds, the moonlit faces of shepherd boys and their brides… These are the searing impressions of the past that come to life in Zulal’s arrangements, reminders of a simpler past, tokens of comfort in the complex, modern world.

Sato Moughalian

Perspectives Ensemble was founded by Moughalian in 1993 as the resident ensemble for the series “Perspectives in Music and Art” at Columbia University. The ensemble has presented thematic concerts as well as programs on subjects that bridge the visual, musical, and literary arts, consistently receiving the highest critical accolades. The New York Times praised the “first-rate performances by accomplished musicians,” “a superb recital by the Perspectives Ensemble,” and “rhythms [that] were remarkably precise, supple and subtle.”

Perspectives Ensemble presents concerts and recordings that feature the works of living composers and historic figures, shedding new light on their work through explorations of music in the context of time and place. Perspectives has collaborated with IberArtists in programs of Spanish and Catalan music of the modernist movement and for world premieres by Vadillo, Artero, Sotelo, and Erkoreka. Perspectives Ensemble was recently appointed “artist in residence” of the Foundation for Iberian Music, City University Graduate Center. The New York Times called the ensemble’s performance of “El Amor Brujo” stunning: “Perspectives Ensemble worked [without a conductor], yet gave a performance that was remarkably polished, fastidiously balanced, and full of electricity.”

Perspectives Ensemble has presented in the Stern Auditorium of Carnegie Hall, the 92nd Street Y, Lincoln Center, Columbia University, New York University, the Rubin Museum, and the Ethical Culture Society, and has recorded for Sony Classics, Newport Classics, and New World Records, among others. It was the resident ensemble for the Young People’s Chorus of New York’s Transient Glory commissioning program, and has served as a resident ensemble for the Miller Theatre’s groundbreaking “Pocket Concerto Project.”

Recordings include “Sonnets to Orpheus” by Richard Danielpour (Sony), “Recollections” by Karl Husa (New World), and Charles Tomlinson Griffes’ “Goddess of the Moon” (Newport). “The performances by the Perspectives Ensemble, an outstanding aggregation based in New York, are first-rate, with particularly fine playing by the flutist Sato Moughalian,” wrote the New York Times. Most recently, Perspectives Ensemble released a critically acclaimed CD featuring the works of Xavier Montsalvatge with soloists Timothy Fain, violin, Sato Moughalian, flute, Sasha Cooke, mezzo, and Angel Gil-Ordóñez in 2013 on the Naxos label.

The April 25 program is made possible by the generous support of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the Daniele Doctorow Prize for Music, the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation, the Hegardt Foundation, and Perspectives Ensemble’s many friends.

The commemorative concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, St. James Chapel, 1047 Amsterdam Ave. (at 112th St), in New York. For more information, e-mail perspectivesensemble@gmail.com or call (212) 923-3657.

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PHILADELPHIA, Pa.—From March 12-15, the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief (SOAR) will host a global conference in Philadelphia, bringing together its chapter volunteers from around the world for the first time to meet and collaborate. The capstone of the weekend is the 10^th anniversary gala to be held at the Sheraton University City Hotel on March 14, beginning at 6 p.m.

Evening highlights

SOAR welcomes Sister Arousiag Sajonian, founder of the Our Lady of Armenia Center (Gyumri) and the Our Lady of Armenia Summer Camp (Tsaghgadzor). The keynote speakers for this year’s gala will be Alexis Ohanian and Dr. Ronald Suny. Guests of honor include Mark Geragos, Esq. and Michael Aram. There will also be performances by the Hamazkayin Meghry Dance Group, Artsakh Band, and International Superstar Robert Chilingirian. Chinese and silent auctions will be held throughout the evening.

For more details, visit www.soar-us.org or contact George S. Yacoubian, Jr., SOAR’s Executive Board chairman, by calling (610) 213-3452 or e-mailing gyacoubian@soar-us.org.

SOAR was founded in 2005 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to provide humanitarian relief to orphaned children living in Armenia. Today, SOAR provides assistance to approximately 2,000 orphaned Armenians across 31 institutions in Armenia, Artsakh, Javakh, Lebanon, and Syria. Headquartered in the suburbs of Philadelphia, SOAR has more than 400 volunteers in 75 chapters and junior groups around the world. SOAR made $60,000 in distributions in 2006; $80,000 in 2007; $102,000 in 2008; $111,000 in 2009; $118,000 in 2010; $360,000 in 2011; $469,000 in 2012; $700,000 in 2013; and $865,000 in 2014.

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NEW YORK—Four Armenian films will be screened as part of this year’s SR Socially Relevant Film Festival, a new non-profit film festival that showcases socially relevant films with human interest stories as a response to the proliferation of violence and violent forms of storytelling.

Four Armenian films will be screened as part of this year’s SR Socially Relevant Film Festival.

The film “Born in Adana,” directed by David Hovan, will make its East Coast premiere at the festival. The 15-minute film focuses on the surrender of Adana to Turkey by the French, causing upheaval and the further deportation of Armenians from that city.

“My Mother’s Voice,” directed by Kay Mouradian, is a 25-minute film revolving around the true story of a 14-year-old girl orphaned during the Armenian Genocide, who finds her way to America to marry a man she only knows from a photograph.

“24/I Confess with Faith,” directed by Shahen Nazarenko, is a 15-minute film that combines two worlds, a monastery and a city bustle. The film, marking its U.S. premiere, was created on a basis of the prayer, “I confess with Faith,” by St. Nerses the Graceful.

“Cyprus Summer,” directed by Edith Weil, makes its world premiere at the festival. The 24-minute film opens with Cyprus waking up to the sound of gunfire and war on a beautiful summer morning in July 1974. A 13-year-old girl writes a diary of the unfolding events.

The second edition of the Rated SR Film Festival showcases a broader slate of timely, issue-oriented films that will run from March 16-22 at Tribeca Cinemas, Maysles Cinema and School of Visual Arts. The festival’s timely and socially engaging selection offers world and U.S. premieres, in addition to a slate of tributes and industry panels. Films from more than 30 countries, including Armenia, Australia, Canada, China, Colombia, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Haiti, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kurdistan, Lebanon, Liberia, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Palestine, Patagonia, Peru, Romania, Russia, South Korea, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Tibet, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE and the United States, will be screened in four venues.

All of the Armenian-themed films will be shown on Sat., March 21 at 4:30 p.m. at Tribeca Cinemas, 54 Varick St., in New York.

The festival was inaugurated in March 2014 with a program of 55 films from 18 countries at the Quad Cinema. Nora Armani, actor/filmmaker and founding artistic director of SR, created the festival in response to the proliferation of violence and violent forms of storytelling. “I strongly believe that the violence portrayed on our screens and in video games is responsible for the banalization of evil in our societies and the proliferation of violent forms of communication. Most films today encourage mis-representation, reinforce stereotypes, and create an escapist passive attitude in youth and adults towards major social issues. In reverse, simply by focusing more on socially relevant themes, positive social change can be promoted through the powerful medium of cinema.”

For the entire slate of movies, dates, and times, or to purchase tickets, visit www.ratedsrfilms.org.

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RADNOR, Pa.—On Jan. 28, students of the Armenian Sisters Academy learned about their Armenian faith and several hymns of the Divine Liturgy during an engaging and lively presentation led by Nvair Kadian Beylerian and Andrea Carden, creators of the album, “We Sing Armenian Church Songs (Badarak Hymns for Children).”

Nvair Kadian Beylerian and Andrea Carden interacting with students of the Armenian Sisters Academy during a presentation about Armenian Church hymns from their newest album, ‘We Sing Armenian Church Songs (Badarak Hymns for Children)’

“As a teacher, I reap the benefits of being rewarded everyday as I interact with students, but I have to say that I truly felt the Holy Spirit around me as we shared the beauty of our church songs,” said Carden, who serves as the education consultant on the album. “The scripted information fell away and allowed us to share our original intention of sharing the meanings of our church songs so we can pray and praise with intent.”

The presentation consisted of a morning and afternoon session, divided by grade level, in which Beylerian and Carden carefully explained each of the hymns and sang them out loud to the students. The energy in the room was palpable, as the youngsters joined in the sing along.

“Cultural preservation is the cornerstone of our mission at the Armenian Sisters Academy,” said Lorig Baronian, chairlady of the school’s Parent Teacher Association. “While a majority of our students attend Armenian church and are used to hearing the ‘Badarak’ on a regular basis, this presentation helped bridge the gap between singing words and understanding their meaning.”

Baronian highlighted the light and fun interaction among Beylerian, Carden, and the students, and how the presentation brought the Badarak to life. She noted that as presenters, they were able to quickly connect with the students and make them feel comfortable while they learned the sharagans (hymns) in both Armenian and English.

“All of the students were equally passionate about their response to this presentation,” said Baronian. “In addition, the presentation was captivating for our faculty, who were also eagerly listening and singing along.”

The “We Sing Armenian Church Songs” album contains seven Armenian hymns recorded in both English and Armenian by the HYEfamily Children’s Chorus, with guest appearances by award-winning artist Nvair and oud master Ara Dinkjian.

“I was really impressed by their enthusiasm and passion in keeping our Armenian religious hymns and sharagans alive,” said Sister Emma Moussayan, principal of Armenian Sisters Academy, noting that Beylerian and Carden were well prepared and immediately captured the students’ attention. “I really appreciated the fact that they have that personal touch to turn the students’ attention and focus on God through our sacred songs.”

“Minutes into the presentation, the room was filled with the sound of children belting out hymns,” added Baronian. “It was so heartwarming, it brought me to tears.”

Beylerian and Carden are scheduled to make interactive educational presentations to Sunday Schools and Armenian communities across the country throughout 2015. For upcoming appearances or to purchase a CD, visit the HYEfamily website at www.hyefamily.com. The album can also be purchased through www.amazon.com or www.cdbaby.com, and can be downloaded on iTunes.

About Nvair Beylerian

Nvair Kadian Beylerian holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education. She is a third-generation Armenian American who has had the privilege of growing up within a culturally rich, Armenian-speaking household rooted in the active and energetic diasporan community of the New York region. She has been on stage performing Armenian song and dance with her family since childhood, and continues in that vein, performing for children and their families across the country, connecting them to their roots with joy and laughter.

Since 2001, Beylerian has released three children’s CDs in Armenian (“2Mayrer,” “Donadzar,” and “Ari Mer Doon”). She performs interactive bi-lingual concerts for Armenian and non-Armenian children and their families in the U.S. and Canada. Each CD has been nominated for the Annual Armenian Music Awards in the category of Best Children’s Album in their respective years. “Donadzar” was awarded a Big Apple Music Award in 2003, in the Best Children’s Album category.

For more information and updates, visit www.hyefamily.com.

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BELMONT, Mass.—On Thurs., March 19, acclaimed French journalists Laure Marchand and Guillaume Perrier will present a talk in conjunction with their newly published book, Turkey and the Armenian Ghost: On the Trail of the Genocide, at the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) Center in Belmont.

Guillaume Perrier and Laure Marchand

The first genocide of the 20^th century remains unrecognized and unpunished. Turkey continues to deny the slaughter of over a million Ottoman Armenians in 1915 and the following years. What sets the Armenian Genocide apart from other mass atrocities is that the country responsible has never officially acknowledged its actions, and no individual has ever been brought to justice.

In Turkey and the Armenian Ghost (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2015), with a foreword by Taner Akçam, a translation of the award-winning La Turquie et le Fantôme Arménien, Laure Marchand (Le Figaro and Le Nouvel Observateur) and Guillaume Perrier (Le Monde and Le Point) visit historic sites and interview politicians, elderly survivors, descendants, authors, and activists in a quest for the hidden truth. Taking the reader into remote mountain regions, tiny hamlets, and the homes of traumatized victims of a deadly persecution that continues to this day, they reveal little-known aspects of the history and culture of a people who have been rendered invisible in their ancient homeland.

Seeking to illuminate complex issues of blame and responsibility, guilt and innocence, the authors discuss the roles played in this drama by the “righteous Turks,” the Kurds, the converts, the rebels, and the “leftovers of the sword.” They also describe the struggle to have the genocide officially recognized in Turkey, France, and the United States. Arguing that this giant cover-up has had consequences for Turks as well as for Armenians, the authors point to a society sickened by a century of denial.

The event begins at 7:30 p.m., at NAASR, 395 Concord Ave., Belmont, Mass. It is free and open to the public. For more information, contact NAASR by calling (617) 489-1610 or e-mailing hq@naasr.org.

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WASHINGTON—Preparations for the Armenian Genocide Centennial commemorations, slated to take place in Washington, D.C., from May 7-9, are proceeding with speed as details emerge daily. The unique event will present a united Armenian-American community, bolstered by dedicated supporters from the American and worldwide religious, diplomatic, and governmental fields.

The commemoration is the work of the Armenian Dioceses and the Armenian Prelacies in the United States working together on all levels, including organizational and fundraising efforts.

Leading the three-day commemoration will be the Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II and the Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I. This will be their first appearance together following the inspiring ceremony on April 23 in Holy Etchmiadzin, Armenia, which will anoint the martyrs of the Armenian Genocide as saints.

Also attending the commemoration will be Armenian President Serge Sarkisian. President Barak Obama and members of Congress have been issued special invitations by both the National Council of Churches and the U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops.

Appreciation, unity, awareness, revival

The weekend will begin at Washington’s famed National Cathedral on Thursday evening, May 7 at 7 p.m., with Catholicos Karekin II and Catholicos Aram I jointly leading clergy of the Armenian Church and heads of other faiths in prayers of remembrance, respect, unity, and revival. The keynote speaker in the cathedral will be the General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, Rev. Olav Fyske Tviet.

On Friday evening, May 8, beginning at 8 p.m. at the Music Center at Strathmore, a special program entitled, “A Journey through 100 Years of Armenian Music,” will be presented. A group of compositions, both classical and contemporary by the beloved Komitas Vartabed, framed especially for the Genocide Centennial, will be presented. A surprise grand finale awaits the presentation.

Among the acclaimed musicians taking part are the renowned Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hover Chamber Choir of Armenia. Also performing will be celebrated sopranos Isabel Bayrakdarian and Hasmik Papian, pianists Sahan Arzruni and Serouj Khradjian, violinists Levon Chilingirian, Ara Gregorian, and Ida Kavafian, cellist Alexander Chaushian, and clarinetist Narek Arutunyan.

On the morning of Sat., May 9, starting at 10 a.m. at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, which holds 3,000 seats, Catholicos Karekin II and Catholicos Aram I will lead a magnificent rendering of the Holy Badarak (Divine Liturgy), sung by more than 150 members of choir representatives from Armenian churches in the United States. The choir will be conducted by New York’s St. Vartan Cathedral Choir Director Maestro Khoren Mekanejian, with St. Vartan Cathedral Dean, the Very Rev. Fr. Mamigon Kiledjian, accompanying on the organ.

Mark Geragos to MC banquet

Mark Geragos

“A Time to Give Thanks” will be the theme of the banquet taking place at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on Saturday evening, May 9, starting with a reception at 6 p.m. Those dedicated individuals and institutions that helped and supported the Armenians in the past, and the present, will be honored. The master of ceremonies for this auspicious event will be the well-known California lawyer Mark Geragos. Among the evening’s musical performers will be the Zulal Acapella Trio. Entertainment activities for children will be provided during the banquet.

Throughout the three-day weekend, a number of related events will take place, including a tour and a lecture at the Library of Congress, and a tour of the American Indian Museum. There will also be a series of workshops, films, and exhibits throughout Washington and at the Marriott Marquis Hotel.

For hotel and event reservations, visit www.armeniangenocidecentennial.org.

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At long last, what is there left from life? What’s left to me?
Strange as it seems, only that, which I gave to others…

—Vahan Tekeyan
Translated by Tatul Sonentz

These lines from Vahan Tekeyan’s poem “Final Accounting” echoed through my mind as I read the e-mail notifying me of the passing of Bill Hausrath on Feb. 13, 2015.

Bill had created the Agnes Manoogian Hausrath Memorial Fund and the Agnes Manoogian Hausrath Endowed Research Fund in Armenian Genocide Studies in memory of his wife, Agnes, who died in 2003.

Agnes’s mother was a survivor of the Armenian Genocide.

Mouradian’s dissertation adviser Taner Akcam, Khatchig Mouradian, Bill Hausrath, and dissertation committee member Raymond Kevorkian

Bill was one of the warmest and most modest individuals I had ever met. And I carried Bill’s name in my title. I was the Agnes Manoogian Hausrath Fellow at the Strassler Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University as a doctoral student.

Later, my colleague Umit Kurt, working on the confiscation of Armenian wealth in Aintab during the Armenian Genocide, became a Hausrath Fellow.

Bill’s gift set a standard of generosity in supporting fellowships dedicated to research on the genocide. Other friends of the Strassler Center have donated funds for my more junior doctoral colleagues. But, unlike the Hausrath Fellowships, these are current-use gifts that will not last in perpetuity. My ardent hope is that others will follow Bill’s example by leaving a lasting legacy that ensures the long-term future of Armenian Genocide research.

Bill and Agnes Hausrath didn’t have children. Every now and then, our colleagues would call Umit and I “the Hausrath boys.” Thanks to Bill’s generous gifts, there will be many more Hausrath boys and girls studying the Armenian Genocide.

Born on Jan. 22, 1931 in Lowell, Mass., Bill received his bachelor of business administration degree from Clark University in 1953, and his master’s from Columbia University in 1954. Following a successful career, he retired as a manager at General Electric’s aerospace/engine division.

The day I defended my dissertation proposal, Bill was there beaming with pride. He told me how my research into the destruction of the Armenians in the desert of Der Zor reminded him of the ordeal his mother-in-law had endured.

As I write these lines, a printout of my dissertation draft is scattered on my desk with notes and comments. Somewhere in this pile is the dedication page. Two men are memorialized there: my beloved father, whose last name I carry; and Bill Hausrath, whose name I carried in one of the most cherished titles I ever held.

The post Mouradian: ‘Only That, Which I Gave to Others’: In Memory of Bill Hausrath appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

On April 24, Armenians worldwide will commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. This was a deliberate attempt by the Ottoman Turkish Empire in 1915 to extinguish the faith, culture, and identity of the Armenian people from the world.

The Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial Committee of Rhode Island, since its inception in 1972, has served as a unified voice for the local Armenian community in honoring the 1.5 million Armenians who were massacred. Over a year ago, a Centennial Committee was formed in Rhode Island, which included the 3 Armenian churches and 20 community organizations. The committee has organized a series of events and activities designed to remind the public of the atrocities committed and to celebrate the wealth of contributions that Armenians have made in every realm of society.

On Sun., April 12, at 3 p.m., “A Tribute to Survival” Memorial Concert will be held at the Park Theatre, 848 Park Ave., Cranston, R.I. The Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island will be singing under the directorship of Maestro Konstantin Petrossian with a full complement of orchestra, accompanied by Mari Panosian. Guest artists include Gohar Manjelikian, Joanne Mouradjian, Kate Norigian, Debra Takian Pjojian, Elizabeth Souin, and Vagarshag Ohanian from New York. Musical instrumental selections will be played by David Ayriyan, kemancha, and David Gevorkian, duduk. The world-famous Sayat Nova Dance Company of Boston, directed by Apo Ashjian, will perform during the second portion of the program. They are 43 performers and through their artistry will provide a powerful story of “Journey Through Time.” Master of ceremonies will be Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian of Middlesex County, Massachusetts. This concert should not be missed. The Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial Committee invites the public to attend. The theatre seats 1,000 people. Admission is free; parking is also free and valet parking will be available..

On Friday morning, April 24, from 8:30-11:45 a.m., the 18^th Annual Armenian Youth Day will take place at Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, Egavian Cultural Center, located at 70 Jefferson St, Providence, R.I. All children are invited to attend. After a light lunch, the children will proceed to North Burial Ground, 5 Branch Ave., Providence, for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy.

On Fri., April 24, at noon, a special Divine Liturgy (Badarak) will be held at the Martyrs’ Monument in North Burial Ground, 5 Branch Avenue, Providence. The committee has invited the clergy, deacons, and choirs from the three Armenian churches, along with the entire community, guest clergy, and friends. Tents and chairs will be set up. Please take the time to attend this historic celebration of our Badarak with your families at the monument to remember our martyrs and survivors of 1915.

The Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial Committee is also sponsoring 15 billboards during the month of April that will be seen in various cities and towns throughout Rhode Island. The committee is also helping coordinate a bus trip to New York City on April 26 to celebrate the Divine Liturgy at St. Vartan Cathedral and participate in the Times Square Commemoration. With a generous donation from Aram Garabedian, 10 buses have been reserved and the public is able to travel for free; to reserve a spot, call your local Rhode Island Armenian church by March 15.

Tri-colors will be displayed on the State House Dome during the week of April 17. Also, bells will toll 100 times in many churches at noon on April 24. The Armenian flag will be flown in 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island on April 24.

Two Armenian musical events were held on March 1 and March 6 at the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College, respectively.

The Providence Armenian National Committee (ANC) and Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) chapters will be sponsoring a forum at Brown University on Mon., April 6 at noon. The Rhode Island General Assembly commemoration will take place on Wed., April 8, from 3-6 p.m. at the State House Chambers.

A Candlelight Vigil will take place on Fri., April 17, from 6-9 p.m., sponsored by the Rhode Island ANC and ARF, Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), and Armenian Church Youth Organization of America (ACYOA). The vigil consists of a march to the State House with an outside cultural presentation.

During the month of April, a display of Armenian culture and traditions at the URI Feinstein Providence Campus will be presented. Also in April, a historical, archival, and fine arts exhibit will be featured at Studio Z at Butcher Block Mill, 25 Eagle St., in Providence.

The play “We Survived” will be presented on Sun., April 19, at 3 p.m. at the URI Feinstein Providence Campus.

On Mon., April 20, two films will be featured on the opening night of the SENE Film Festival, at Columbus Theatre, 270 Broadway, in Providence. Filmmaker Robert Davidian will be present.

On Wed., April 22, at 1 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m., “Armenia 100” will feature two performances of Armenian music and culture at Rhode Island College, Nazarian Center and Sapinsley Hall, in Providence.

On Fri., April 24, at 7 p.m., a Memorial Dinner will be held at the Omni Hotel in Providence, sponsored by the Rhode Island ANC and ARF.

For more information, visit www.ammri.org.

The post Series of Centennial Commemoration Events to Be Held in RI appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Special for the Armenian Weekly

Los Angeles-based actor and hip-hop artist Nazo Bravo (Naz Aslanian) released the first episode of a documentary web series titled “Armenian American” on Feb. 11 on his YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/NazoBravo). The series follows Aslanian on his recent trip to Armenia, as he explores Yerevan, meets with musicians, spends time with family, and is interviewed by local media outlets.

Nazo Bravo in Armenia

“I was able to spend time with family out there, see the neighborhood where my parents grew up, and also experience an entirely different side with all of the interviews and networking I did in the entertainment business out there.”

Nazo Bravo at Dzidzernagapert

The trip was a deeply affecting one for Aslanian. “I found myself often coming back to the thought of ‘This is how my life would be had my parents never moved to America.’ Would I even be a hip-hop artist? An actor? Would I be married with kids by now? My friends would be different, my sisters and my cousins would be different as people. Everything would be different. My mentality, my influences, my goals. All of these thoughts kept coming into my head as I would interact with various family members and individuals in general.”

In a recent press release, Aslanian described the motivation behind the web series. “April 24th marks the centennial of the genocide, which Turkey still denies, so I’m doing what I can to help bring awareness to the issue. I feel like this documentary is something any first- or second-generation American can relate to, no matter where you come from… At the end of the day the cultural awareness is growing so that’s what matters with a project like this.”

The weekly release of each episode coincides with the release of a new song on Aslanian’s SoundCloud page, and the web series will continue throughout the next two months. “Episodes and music from each episode are released every Wednesday and will conclude in April with a new music video which I filmed entirely in Armenia called ‘Power of the Hye.’ It’s my remake of ‘HyePower’ and touches on topics related to the genocide, like Obama’s position and Hrant Dink’s assassination. I’ve also partnered up with HayFanat.com which will be showing the episodes with Armenian subtitles on their YouTube channel.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

The first episode features the haunting and melodic single “Before I Die” (available at https://soundcloud.com/nazobravo/before-i-die-ft-a-chilla). The song, featuring A. Chilla, is from a dramatic short film of the same name by Suren Tadevosyan. “I met the director, Suren Tadevosyan, while he was in Los Angeles shooting the film. He had seen my previous work and reached out through a mutual friend about working on the film soundtrack. A. Chilla was already working on the music, so I just met up with him in the studio and we came up with the song “Before I Die” together. Suren ended up liking the song so much that he changed the title of the film to match the song.”

Aslanian is also involved in the feature film “Armenia, My Country, My Mother, My Love,” in which he plays the role of an intellectual named Grigor Orbelian, who is rounded up by Ottoman authorities along with numerous other Armenian intellectuals on April 24, 1915. The film is slated for release in theaters this April.

The post Nazo Bravo Releases Web Series Documenting Trip to Armenia appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Several events dedicated to the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide, initiated by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Central Executive Board, with the cooperation of the Regional Executive of ARS/Eastern USA, were held with great success from March 5-7 in New York. The weekend kicked off on Thursday evening, March 5, with the official opening of the exhibit titled, “Stitching to Survive: Handwork of Armenian Women”, at the United Nations Headquarters. This exhibit was organized jointly by the ARS Central Executive Board and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Armenia at the UN. The function was attended by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Armenia at the UN, the ARS Central Executive Board, members of ARS/Canada, ARS/Eastern and Western USA, and ARS/South America, as well as UN and NGO representatives, clergymen, and both Armenian and non-Armenian guests.

A scene from the symposium titled “Rebuilding a Nation: The Armenian Woman’s Century of Resistance and Empowerment.”

ARS Central Executive Board Chairperson, Vicky Marachelian, opened the proceedings, stressing the dedication and tenacity exhibited by Armenian women at all junctures of Armenian history to preserve the Armenian family and culture. As Marachelian stated, “The exhibit demonstrates the contribution of Armenian women to culture and it pays tribute to the cultural expression of Armenian women. This miraculous feminine force, dedicated to humanitarian endeavors, did not emerge overnight. Emerging from the crucible of oppression, these future ARS members made the daunting journey from the old world to the new, from refugee to worker, from dependence to self-reliance.” Referring to the 59th session of the Commission on the Status of Women in New York, Marachelian said, “As the year 2015 marks 20 years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the ARS, as an ECOSOC accredited NGO, is addressing issues of women’s empowerment and gender equality. This exhibit intends to tell the story of women who empowered themselves to support their families.”

Following Marachelian’s address, Armenia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, noted the unique nature of this exhibit, as a symbol of the historic endurance of Armenian women who had survived the crucible of the genocide. His Excellency continued by mentioning that beyond survival, the Armenian woman had mastered enough resolve to rebuild a new life on foreign shores. He stated that the exhibit shares a story of people who, 100 years ago, experienced the most heinous and dehumanizing mass exterminations and deportations, which were defined as “crimes against humanity and civilization.” He concluded his remarks with words of high praise for the ARS’s persistent input in achieving the success of this function, indicative of the resolve and commitment of the Armenian people that made possible the admission and raising of the Armenian flag at the UN.

Clothing displayed at the exhibit

Following Amb. Mnatsakanyan’s remarks, Marachelian and the Ambassador cut the ribbon, officially opening the exhibit for the evening’s guests. It should be noted that this Armenian exhibit at the UN Headquarters is being held at a time when thousands of representatives from around the world are in New York City to take part in the sessions of the 59th Conference of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW59). The exhibit demonstrates, for all those who visit, the Armenian woman’s everlasting will to survive and thrive after the genocidal attempt at annihilation of the Armenian nation.

The participation and performance of violinist Dianna Vasilyan enhanced the evening’s atmosphere, to the enjoyment and appreciation of all those present. The guests also enjoyed the hors d’oeuvres generously provided for the event by the Almayass Armenian Restaurant of New York City.

needlework displayed at the exhibit

The beautiful items on display were provided by the Armenian Museum of America of Watertown, Mass., and ARS/Eastern USA. The ARS Central Executive Board expresses its deep gratitude to the management of the Armenian Museum of America for its kind cooperation, as well as to curator, Susan Lind-Sinanian, for her active participation in setting up this exhibition of Armenian women’s handwork. The Board also extends sincere appreciation to all the contributors to the exhibit, particularly to the main sponsors of the event; Mrs. and Mrs. Harout and Vicky Marachelian, whose generous donation made the unqualified success of this historic endeavor possible, once again sending a message to the world, by way of the UN, of the continuous resiliency and creative talent of the Armenian woman.

On Fri., March 6, the symposium titled “Rebuilding a Nation: The Armenian Woman’s Century of Resistance and Empowerment”, organized by the ARS/CEB Genocide Centennial Committee, took place in the Salvation Army Hall in the presence of a large audience. Participating in the conference were Dr. Eleni Theocharous, Member of European Parliament and leader of EU-Armenia Friendship Group; Dr. Isabelle Kaprielian-Churchill, Emerita Professor of Armenian Immigration History, Department of History, California State University, Fresno; Scout Tufankjian, photojournalist and author of There is Only the Earth: Images from the Armenia Diaspora Project; Dr. Marian Mesrobian MacCurdy, author of Sacred Justice: The Voices and Legacy of the Armenian Operation Nemesis; and Bared Maronian, Executive Producer, Armenoid Production Team.

On behalf of the ARS Central Executive Board, Caroline Chamavonian opened the proceedings, inviting those present to stand and honor the memory of the martyrs with a moment of silence. Following this solemn beginning, Chamavonian welcomed the participants and invited the master of ceremonies, Pauline Getzoyan of the ARS Central Executive Board, to introduce the designated speakers of the symposium. Each speaker presented his or her views, in a variety of approaches, on the role of the Armenian woman during and after the genocide, as a powerful force in the survival and revival of family and culture.

In her address, Dr. Theocharous focused on the theme of the empowerment of Armenian women, noting the ravages of the Armenian Genocide years and the role played by Armenian women during the Artsakh Liberation War. She expressed admiration for the laudable role played by the ARS in those difficult times, and stated that, being fully aware of the just cause of Armenian demands for recognition and reparations, she feels honored participating in the centennial commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Dr. Theocharous concluded her remarks by solemnly stating, “As long as I am alive, Turkey will not join the European Union, unless it becomes a civilized country, unless it recognizes the Armenian Genocide, and unless it gets out its troops from Cyprus.”

Dr. Isabel Kaprielian-Churchill’s presentation was centered on the theme of Armenian handwork and its impact on the lives of those who survived the Armenian Genocide and used needlework as a means to support their families. She emphasized the importance of the role played by feminine creativity in the struggle for physical and spiritual survival of the devastated Armenian nation.

Tufankjian, in turn, displayed emblematic photographs depicting world-wide Armenian communities and synthesized the lifestyles of diasporan Armenians. Maronian reevaluated the role of the pre- and post-genocide Armenian women by showing segments of his films, “Orphans of the Genocide” and “Women of 1915.” Dr. MacCurdy spoke about the traditional Armenian woman’s silent yet persistent toil, using her grandmother, Eliza Der Melkonian, one of the founders of ARS, as a prime and inspirational example.

A commemorative dinner and cultural program dedicated to the centennial of the Armenian Genocide, organized by the ARS/Eastern USA Regional Executive, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate of the Eastern USA See of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and the Armenian Relief Society Central Executive Board, took place in New Jersey on Sat., March 7. In attendance were Amb. Mnatsakanyan, Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vice-Prelate of the Eastern USA Prelacy, several members of the clergy, members of the ARS Central Executive Board, and a wide variety of guests, including members of ARS/Canada, ARS/Eastern and Western USA, ARS/South America and a large number of ARS supporters.

A group shot of the organizers and participants

This year, once again, the ARS participated in the 59th Conference of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.  Within the context of the Armenian Genocide Centennial commemorative events, the ARS organized a workshop entitled “Women and Diaspora: From Past to Post-2015,” in cooperation with the UN Permanent Missions of Armenia and Cyprus, as well as several other NGOs. The workshop was opened by the Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the UN, Ambassador Nicholas Emiliou. Representing women living and working in the Diaspora, Nanore Barsoumian, editor of the Armenian Weekly, moderated the discussion, inviting the participants to express their opinions and experiences.

A scene from the workshop entitled, “Women and Diaspora: From Past to Post-2015″

On behalf of the ARS, member Nora Simonian expressed her views on the role of Diasporan women, describing the Armenian mother as the pillar of the family and as the link to the homeland and Armenian culture. Other panelists included Dr. Jim MacPherson from the University of the Highlands and Islands; Semhar Araia, Executive Director of the Diasporan African Women’s Network (DAWN); Sarah Gammage, Policy Adviser, UN Women; and Harriet Pavles George, former judge of the Housing part of the Civil Court of the City of New York. Concluding remarks were made by Amb. Mnatsakanyan.

The four days of commemorating the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide in New York, initiated by the ARS Central Executive Board, demonstrated the indomitable resolve of the Armenian woman, along with the ARS mission and calling, as torchbearers of the empowerment of women and their role as guardians of Armenian identity, both in the homeland and the Diaspora.

Amb. Mnatsakanyan and Marachelian cut the ribbon, officially opening the exhibit

Marachelian delivers her remarks at the opening of the exhibit

A group shot of the participants of the symposium titled “Rebuilding a Nation: The Armenian Woman’s Century of Resistance and Empowerment”

The post ARS Commemorates Genocide Centennial in NY appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

George Basmajian passed away on March 6 in Los Angeles, Calif. Born in Aleppo in 1943, George leaves behind his loving wife, Shakeh Basmajian. He will be sorely missed by his family, which includes Mr. Roger Basmajian; Mr. and Mrs. Serouj and Mireille Basmajian and their children Patil, Decille, and Mila; Mr. and Mrs. Armen and Hourig Anderian and their children Diran and Arden; Dr. and Mrs. Hrayr and Ellis Basmajian and their children George and Soline; and Mr. and Mrs. Stepan and Shakeh Basmajian and their children.

George Basmajian

The Basmajian, Saryan, Menegichian, Takoushian, Haroutunian, Gidanian, Anderian, and Zartarian families grieve the loss of their husband, father, grandfather, brother, and relative.

George was an active member of the Armenian Heritage Cruise (AHC) Executive Committee for several years, and his devotion to the Armenian Nation was evident in his hard work.

He was also a long-time supporter of the Hairenik publications.

George Basmajian’s funeral services took place at the St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Detroit. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the ARS Eastern USA Educational Fund.

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The Armenian Weekly and Hairenik Weekly editors and staff wish to extend their sincere and heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Shakeh Basmajian for the loss of her husband George Basmajian, a longtime supporter of the Hairenik publications.

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The Armenian Heritage Cruise extends its sympathy to the family and friends of George Basmajian, a dedicated Armenian, who recently retired from the AHC Board. He was an active member of the Armenian Heritage Cruise Executive Committee for many years. His work on behalf of the AHC was instrumental in its success. His devotion to the Armenian Nation was evident in all his activities while working on the AHC Committee.

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The Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) Central Executive Board (CEB) and office staff extend their deeply felt sympathy and condolences to former CEB member, Ungerouhi Shakeh Basmajian, her children, and the immediate family, for the loss of Mr. George Basmajian, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who sadly  passed away on Fri., March 6.

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The Armenian Relief Society of Eastern USA, its 32 chapters, and its Board of Directors express their deepest condolences to Ungerouhi Shakeh Basmajian, and the Basmajian families on the passing of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. George Basmajian. He will be sadly missed. May he rest in peace.

The post George Basmajian (1943-2015) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Airing on Detroit Public Television on March 16 at 9:30 p.m.

DETROIT, Mich.—“Motown” is often associated with the likes of Diana Ross and “The Jackson 5.” In reality, Detroit’s nickname encompasses a rich tapestry of music and musicians that includes many ethnicities—including Armenians. On March 16, at 9:30 p.m., Detroit Public Television (DPTV) will air the premiere of “Guardians of Music,” a new documentary by Kresge Artist Fellow Ara Topouzian, as part of a special Armenian Night event.

On March 16, at 9:30 p.m., Detroit Public Television (DPTV) will air the premiere of “Guardians of Music,” a new documentary by Kresge Artist Fellow Ara Topouzian, as part of a special Armenian Night event.

The film features visits to local metro Detroit area locations where Armenian music was once prominent, as well as rare interviews with some of the musicians and nightclub patrons of that era.

Produced and narrated by Topouzian with a $12,000 challenge grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the 1-hour film showcases photographs, film archives, and newspaper clippings that promoted Armenian music in the clubs and dance halls of Detroit, demonstrating the diversity and vibrancy of the multicultural music scene during that time period.

“As this is the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, I wanted to pay homage to the first generations of Detroit-Armenian musicians that helped preserve our folk music and say thank you for passing it on to my generation,” said Topouzian. “But, I also wanted to showcase Detroit’s rich and diverse music history.”

Topouzian is an Armenian-American musician whose proficiency at the kanun (Middle Eastern harp) has made him a nationally recognized artist. He has performed at concerts, music festivals, and many celebrated venues across the United States and the world. In 2012, Topouzian became a Kresge Artist Fellow, and in 2013 he won a Knight Arts Challenge from Knight Foundation.

“Film is an important lens for examining the stories that shape our communities,” said Dennis Scholl, vice president of arts for Knight Foundation. “We hope that Detroiters will watch this film to celebrate Armenian culture and learn more about their shared histories.”

In addition to Topouzian’s film, DPTV’s Armenian Night will also feature “The Armenian Genocide,” a film by Emmy Award-winner Andrew Goldberg. The program is narrated by Julianna Margulies, Ed Harris, Natalie Portman, Laura Linney, Orlando Bloom, and others. It includes interviews with Pulitzer Prize-winning author (and current U.S. Ambassador to the UN) Samantha Power, as well as never-before-seen historical footage.

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NEW YORK—To preserve her mother’s legacy, author and filmmaker Kay Mouradian wrote the biographical memoir, My Mother’s Voice, in 2013. The book has since been transformed into a 25-minute documentary of the same title, which will have its New York premiere at the Socially Relevant Film Festival on March 21, at 4:30 p.m., at the Tribeca Cinemas.

Mouradian says she wrote the book to tell the story of the Armenian Genocide during World War I, bringing to light the effects of war on Armenian families in the Ottoman Empire.

“My Mother’s Voice” tells the tale of her mother, Flora, who escaped from the throes of World War I in Ottoman Turkey. Upon reaching the interior of Syria, Flora and her 16-year-old sister, Verkin, were the only two surviving members of their family. At 14, Florda was forced to make unimaginable life choices during a time of worldwide unrest.

“The story will appeal not only to young adult readers, but also to lovers of history who want to learn about the Armenian Genocide,” Mouradian said. “As the 2015 Centennial approaches, commemorative memorials are being prepared for worldwide coverage.”

Kay Mouradian is a documentary filmmaker and author of books on yoga and meditation. She has a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University and degrees from Boston University and UCLA.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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BELMONT, Mass.—A special program commemorating the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide and the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, entitled “Armenia 1915-Auschwitz 1945: Small Nations and Great Powers,” will take place on March 25 at 7 p.m., at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Starr Auditorium (Belfer B-200 – 79 John F. Kennedy Street, Cambridge, Mass.). The event is co-sponsored by the Harvard Kennedy School European Club, the Harvard College Armenian Students Association, the Mashtots Chair in Armenian Studies at Harvard, and the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR). The event is free and open to the public.

Participating in the program will be Dr. Simon Payaslian, Charles K. and Elisabeth M. Kenosian Professor of Modern Armenian History and Literature, Department of History, Boston University; Marc A. Mamigonian, director of Academic Affairs, NAASR; and Dr. James R. Russell, Mashtots Professor of Armenian Studies, Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, Harvard University. Hovhannes Ghazaryan, a graduate student in the Mid-Career Master in Public Administration at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, will serve as the moderator. Fr. Arsen Barsamian of St. James Armenian Church in Watertown will offer an opening prayer in Armenian, and Dr. Russell will give a concluding prayer in Hebrew.

The panelists will explore interrelationships between the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust, with particular attention paid to the direct ties between the two genocides, some of the similarities and differences in the genocidal processes as well as the denial of both genocides, the role of self-defense on the part of Armenians and Jews against the Ottomans and Nazis, respectively, and the role of the Great Powers in the genocides and their aftermath. Following the panelists’ presentations, there will be a discussion period followed by a reception.

For more information about this event please contact NAASR at 617-489-1610 or hq@naasr.org.

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WASHINGTON—A symposium entitled “The Armenian Genocide: A Century of Sorrow” will take place on March 28 at the Institute of World Politics (IWP) in Washington, D.C. in commemoration of the Centennial. The event is organized and co-sponsored by Mastrapa Consultants and Political Developments Research Center.

‘Turkey, the Legacy of Silence’

The symposium will focus on the history and denial of genocide and justice, compensation and restitution for loss of life and property, Turkey’s destabilizing role in world politics, and the hidden Armenians of Turkey. The French documentary by Anna Benjamin and Guillaume Clere, “Turkey, the Legacy of Silence,” will debut on the East Coast at this event.

The “Century of Sorrow” speakers will be: Dr. Gregory H. Stanton, president of Genocide Watch; Dr. Marek J. Chodakiewicz, IWP professor of history, Kosciuszko chair in Polish Studies; Kate Nahapetian, government affairs director, Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA); Dr. Tania C. Mastrapa, founder of Mastrapa Consultants, IWP research professor; Steven Oshana, executive director, A Demand for Action; Vilen Khlgatyan, vice chairman, Political Developments Research Center; and Raffi Bedrosyan, activist and writer.

The symposium runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Reception to follow. The event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided. To R.S.V.P, contact Sarah Dwyer, sdwyer@iwp.edu, or Register through Eventbrite.

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LODI, N.J.—On Sun., March 1, the New Jersey chapter of the Hamazkayin Armenian Cultural and Educational Society hosted a cultural evening titled, “One Nation, One Culture,” featuring musical and dance performances in commemoration of the Armenian Genocide Centennial. The event, held at Felician College in New Jersey, drew a capacity crowd and showcased the talents of several performers from various organizations. “One Nation, One Culture” also served as a tribute to the victims of the genocide and as a platform to maintain the culture that was on the brink of extinction just 100 years ago.

A scene from the event

The event was co-sponsored by the Armenian General Benevolent Union “Ararat” Chapter in New York, the Homenetmen Regional Executive, the Armenian Relief Society of Eastern USA, and the Tekeyan Cultural Association of Greater New York.

Performers included the Hamazkayin “Meghri” (Philadelphia) and “Nayiri” (New Jersey) dance ensembles, the AGBU “Antranig” dance ensemble, the “Akhtamar” dance ensemble of Hye Doon New Jersey, the Vanoush Khanamerian Dance Academy of New Jersey and Connecticut, as well as the Hamazkayin “Arekag” Children’s Choir, Huyser Ensemble, and New York-based singer-songwriter Hooshere.
The commemoration opened with the Homenetmen Scouts parading onto the stage with torches, which they laid at the model Dzidzernagapert Memorial prepared for the event. The Tekeyan Cultural Association’s Mher Megerdichian Theatrical Group presented short sketches about the history of the Armenian people in between the dance and musical performances. Highlights of the sketches included the self-defense battles during the genocide, the Battle of Sardarabad, and the declaration of the independence of Armenia. Nearly 200 children and youth joined in dance on stage in the event’s electrifying finale.

The performances were masterfully directed and choreographed by renowned Armenian artist Gagik Karapetyan, who is the choreographer for the Yerevan State Dance Ensemble.

The special committee assembled for the organization of the commemorative event did not spare any effort in ensuring a memorable evening.

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