PROVIDENCE, R.I. (A.W.)—On the evening of March 24, the Hamazkayin Armenian Cultural and Educational Society Providence chapter hosted a talk by Professor Richard Hovannisian at the Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church Fermanian Hall in Providence.

Prof. Hovannisian speaking at the Providence event

Chapter president, unger Sarkis Tarpinian, introduced the professor to a capacity crowd. Hovannisian began by thanking the community for being so hospitable to him over the years. He spoke of his family’s roots, starting in the Port of Providence, where his grandfather, Kaspar, landed in America, moving on to Whitinsville, Mass., where he spent a brief part of his childhood, and eventually to the San Joaquin Valley in California.

Hovannisian pointed out the members of the Providence Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), who sat in the back of the room, noting that is where he may have sat if he was at their age. He mentioned that he was very pleased that they were present to hear his message.

Hovannisian spoke of growing up as an American-Armenian how he was not very involved in Armenian circles, since there were only a handful of Armenian families in his area, half of which did not speak to each other due to the political turmoil in the early 1930’s. He also explained how there was no Armenian church or school in his town. Hovannisian then spoke about how he met his wife of 60 years and his decision to learn and teach Armenian history.

Following a short retrospective of his career, he discussed his most recent works, Armenian Communities of Asia Minor, Armenian Gesaria/Kayseri and Cappadocia, and Armenian Communities of the Northeastern Mediterranean: Musa Dagh—Dort Yol—Kessab.

Hovannisian said the Armenian people are all victims of the genocide, since we are forced to live in a land that our ancestors did not choose, but learned to embrace. He said growing up, all that his generation wanted to be was American, but after settling in, being Armenian once again became something to be proud of.

Prof. Hovannisian signing his books for community members

During his presentation, Hovannisian showed photographs, including several group photos of students, taken before the Armenian Genocide. Hovannisisan also showed a short video taken by his daughter, Ani Hovannisian Kevorkian, at the only remaining Armenian village in Turkey—Vakif in Musa Dagh.

The evening concluded with a brief question and answer period, followed by a book signing and refreshments.

DEARBORN, Mich. (A.W)—The second annual Armenian Genealogy Conference took place at the University of Michigan-Dearborn on March 18, while several related events were held in the Detroit area throughout the weekend. The conference was sponsored by the Armenian Research Center at the University of Michigan-Dearborn and co-sponsored by the Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul, the Nor Keghi Association, and the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR). Over 250 people from 18 states attended the conference.

Youngster Nareg Kevorkian attends the the second annual Armenian Genealogy Conference

The weekend’s events kicked off on the evening of  March 17, with an opening reception. Over 150 people with Armenian ancestry gathered at St. Sarkis Lillian Arakelian Fellowship Hall to connect with each other and to enjoy a traditional Armenian buffet, in which each item was identified by its historic origins. Der Hrant Kevorkian, pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, extended a warm welcome to the guests who were seated at tables that mapped the geography of Historic Armenia with each table being designated a particular province. This gave conference attendees the opportunity to connect with others whose ancestors hailed from the same regions of Historic Armenia. Whether Keghitsis, Everegtsis , Adanatsis or Kharpertsis, compatriots made their way for group pictures taken according to regional roots.

The March 18 conference opened with introductory remarks and a welcome by George Aghjayan and Ani Boghikian Kasparian of the organizing committee as well as by Dr. Ara Sanjian, the director of the University of Michigan-Dearborn Armenian Research Center. The morning sessions touched on genealogy 101 (Tracy Keeney), the hidden Armenians of Turkey (George Aghjayan) and the history of the Palu region (Vahe Tachjian).

Descendants of Keghi

In the afternoon, participants went into four consecutive break-out sessions on various themes, including the Armenian Immigration Project (Mark Arslan), genealogy and social media (Tracy Keeney), DNA testing (Janet Achoukian Andreopoulos), Armenian/Ottoman records (George Aghjayan), success stories (Jen Langley), and sources in Armenian research centers (Ani Boghikian Kasparian). Speakers shared “success stories” of genealogical discovery and encouraged those in attendance to start putting together the puzzle pieces of their own family history.

In her presentation on the morning of March 18, Tracy Keeney, creator of the Armenian Genealogy Facebook page, encouraged conference attendees to become more involved in tracing their family lines, whether it is through genealogy websites, newspapers and national archives, or Google, stating: “You never know what you’re going to find and where you’re going to find it.” Keeney also emphasized the importance of connecting with living relatives. “You’re not going to find this all on ancenstry.com,” she said. “There’s so much more to genealogy than names and dates.”

Meline Lachinian, who has been interested in Armenian genealogy for twenty years, described the conference as “a labor of love.” She explained that as a result of a meeting with the director of the Houshamadyan Project Vahe Tachjian at last year’s genealogy conference, he published an article about her family narratives and photos.

On the evening of March 18, the banquet participants enjoyed the culturally rich program with traditional songs and dances of historic Armenia. Harry Kezelian III, accompanied by Dickran Callan, sang songs from various regions, explaining the occasion of when they used to be sung, while playing the oud. The Hamazkayin Arax Dance group of Detroit, led by Nayiri Karapetian, performed dances from Vasbouragan, Shirak, Kessab, and Sepastia. They invited the guests to join them in an effort to reintroduce some of the original steps.

Tracy Keeney during her presentation

On the morning of March 19, attendees had an opportunity to attend mass at the local Armenian churches.  In the afternoon, everyone was shuttled to St. John’s Armenian Apostolic church for a tour of the Alex and Marie Manoogian Museum. As everyone was gathered in the art gallery, Ms. Lucy Ardash, the director of the museum, highlighted some of the special artifacts from the collection. With docents in each of the six galleries of the museum, the guests went through at their own pace, identifying with artifacts from their ancestral towns and villages.

The tour was followed by the farewell reception with a warm welcome by Hayr Aren Jebejian, pastor of St. John’s Armenian Apostolic Church. Guests enjoyed more Armenian pastries and more time with newly discovered family and friends. Participants thanked the organizers, George Aghjayan, Janet Achoukian Andreopoulos, Mark Arslan, Luc Baronian, Ani Boghikian Kasparian, Tracy Keeney, Jen Langley, Marc Mamigonian, and Shoghig Shahinian for a worthwhile conference and left with great anticipation for its next installment.

Dr. Bilgin Ayata, Assistant Professor in Political Sociology, University of Basel, will give a lecture entitled “Quo Vadis Turkey? The Constitutional Referendum and Political Transformation in Turkey,” on April 6, at 7:30 p.m., at the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) Center, 395 Concord Ave., Belmont, Mass. 02478.  The lecture is presented as part of the NAASR/Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Series on Contemporary Armenian Issues.

Dr. Bilgin Ayata

On April 16, Turkish citizens will vote at home and abroad on the constitutional referendum that entails fundamental changes for Turkey’s political system. In this talk, Prof. Bilgin Ayata will analyze what is at stake for state and society on the eve of this referendum and explore future scenarios for the aftermath of the referendum both for domestic and foreign relations, with a focus on Turkish prospects for peace and reconciliation with Armenians and Kurds.

Since summer 2015, the deterioration of democracy has accelerated at full speed in Turkey. Curfews were first declared in the wake of military operations against Kurds, during which thousands of Kurdish civilians were displaced and their homes destroyed. Since last year, a nationwide state of emergency has been declared after a coup attempt in July 2016. The Turkish government has intensified the suppression of media, opposition, and civil society, while it has sacked over 100,000 state employees. Opposition leaders and members of parliament are in prison, along with journalists, elected mayors, and intellectuals. Tensions have increased with the European Union, whose Parliament has called to suspend accession talks until democratic rights are restored.

Dr. Bilgin Ayata is Assistant Professor of Political Sociology at University of Basel.  She obtained her PhD in Political Science at Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, USA), and her MA degree from York University (Toronto, Canada). Her research interests center on transformation processes spurred by forced migration, conflict, protest movements, contestations of memory, and postcolonial interventions. Her regional expertise includes the Middle East and Europe, in particular Turkey, the Kurdish regions, and postcolonial Germany. She has published on transnational activism of diasporas, the politics of displacement, foreign policy, genocide denial, and memory regimes. She has received research grants and fellowships by the MacArthur Foundation, the German Academic Exchange Service, Friedrich-Ebert Stiftung, FU Berlin, Johns Hopkins University, and York University.  She appears frequently in international media on topics relating to Turkey-EU relations, Turkish foreign Policy, Kurdish politics, refugees, and migration policies in Germany.

For more information about Dr. Ayata’s talk, contact NAASR at 617-489-1610 or hq@naasr.org.

Special for the Armenian Weekly

YEREVAN (A.W.)—Ahead of Armenia’s upcoming Parliamentary Elections on April 2, Armenia has witnessed the creation of new alliances, early campaigning, and several instances of violence linked to election campaigns.

According a teacher who wished to remain anonymous, a principal of a school just outside of Stepanavan passed out RPA campaign branded candy to students and staff. (Photo: hayacq.com)

And with the death of “the bringer of bread” Artur Sargsyan, and the detainment of former Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabagh) Defense Minister Samvel Babayan, the pre-election period has taken new turns.

Sargsyan’s death, which has led to protests and multiple demonstrations in his honor, has only fueled more citizens of Armenia who are discontent with the ruling regime, to join and demonstrate in the streets.

Meanwhile, the Babayan’s arrest has been seen as a threat to the Ohanyan-Raffi-Oskanian alliance, due to their close ties with the former Defense Minister. In the midst of all of this, a discredited former president has appeared on public television announcing that Artsakh should concede territories and compromise.

And now, based on the evidence of the Union of Informed Citizens (UIC), election campaigns have been accused of targeting public schools, specifically school principals.

Back in February, Armenia’s Minister of Education and Sciences Levon Mkrtchyan of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) urged all the schools in the country not to engage in partisan politics. He had stated that school principals have the right to belong to political parties but cannot participate in sharing propaganda within schools.

However, on March 24, the UIC announced that one of its activists posing as a senior Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) representative telephoned the directors of 136 schools and kindergartens in and out of Yerevan, and revealed that 114 of them admitted to drawing up lists of students’ parents, as well as schoolteachers and staff, who promised to support the RPA in the upcoming elections.

The UIC said that these lists were submitted to local government bodies or RPA campaign offices. “We phoned all administrative districts in Yerevan and all provinces,” the UIC’s Daniel Ioannisyan a news conference. “More than 80 percent of school and kindergarten directors admitted that they submitted such lists for the Republican Party and gave details of those lists.”

Some of the longest lists included up to 1,700 names. This type of list was found with the head of Gyumri’s secondary school No. 37. Ioannisyan added that in this case, the school principal stated that the Republicans were using various methods including intimidation to deal with voters.

In another case, a dispute erupted in a village just outside Stepanavan when a local principal suspected that there were staff members who had been in support of a party other than the RPA, an source told the Armenian Weekly.

“A whole series of exclamations ensued. [One] staff member said how the accusations were ridiculous and that they would never do such a thing, because they already know that they have to vote for the Republican Party,” the teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Armenian Weekly. “The principal then continued to list reasons as to why the staff member must vote for the RPA, while other teachers reluctantly gave their own reasons.”

According to the teacher, the principal of the same school passed out candy to students and staff with RPA campaign branded wrappers.

The UIC has published a list of all the principals involved with creating election lists for the RPA. The list includes details and recorded conversations with the principals of 84 schools and 30 kindergartens.

The RPA has since called this a “dishonest” way of discrediting RPA supporters. In a written statement, the RPA did not deny that many schools are campaigning for them but instead stated that “recruitment, registration, mobilization, and identification of the potential electorate” is part of campaigning.

On March 26, as a result of this news, the Office of the Prosecutor General ordered a working group to study and analyze the published report by the UIC.

The following day, the Armenia’s Education Ministry said that it will be investigating the claims made by UIC. Deputy Minister of Education and Sciences Manuk Mkrtchyan has requested that the school officials involved in the UIC claim provide clarification.

In addition, the Ministry sent out notifications to all the governors and mayors in Armenia, advising to take the appropriate measures to prevent political propaganda within education institutions.

Meanwhile, the office of Armenia’s Ombudsman (Human Rights Defender) announced that it is in the process of thoroughly studying and examining the published records of the UIC.

The office of the Human Rights Defender reported that after transparent investigation is conducted, it will make sure to follow up to ensure that criminal charges are applied if necessary. The Ombudsman has also reached out to the Central Electoral Committee (CEC) for clarification regarding the matter.

With the election less than a week away, it will be interesting to see how this latest controversy will play out—both before and after the polls close.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—On May 20, for the first time in Boston, Repat Armenia Foundation, in cooperation with Armenian Business Network, will host the “Imagine Armenia” forum to share reasons and best ways to get engaged with Armenia.

The “Imagine Armenia” forum will take place on May 20

During the forum, which will be taking place at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the Boston-based Armenian community will have the opportunity to learn about the experiences of different organizations and businesses that have succeeded in Armenia.

Founders of these companies will share their tips for a strong start and a vision of progress, and also discuss volunteer and professional opportunities for the youth to work and gain experience while they contribute to Armenia’s development.

The keynote speaker of the forum will be the Noubar Afeyan, who will address the importance of getting engaged with Armenia. The forum will have two panel discussions.

The first panel is entitled “Because We Did,” which will be about businesses, education, social initiatives, and professional repatriation in Armenia. The moderator will be Avetik Chalabyan and the speakers/organizations are the following:

Raffi Doudaklian – Tufenkian Foundation
Ani Sarkissian – ONEArmenia
Raffi Kassarjian – Monitis/Repat Armenia Foundation
Tsoline Avedisian – Ginosi Apartels
Vartan Marashlyan – Repat Armenia
Madga Markosyan – MAROG Creative Agency

The second panel is named “Because You Can” will discuss the opportunities for young professionals to get involved with Armenia. The moderator will be Vartan Marashlyan and the speakers/organizations are the following:

Teny Avakian – Teach For Armenia
Linda Yepoyan – Birthright Armenia/Armenian Volunteer Corps
Arina Zohrabian – American University of Armenia
Araz Chiloyan – Birthright Volunteer/HDIF Volunteer
Tatev Babayan – Repat Armenia
Terez Sarkisyan – DEPOP Institute for Governance/ Birthright Volunteer
Aimee Keushguerian – Keush Wines

The event will take place at MIT, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, Mass., from 2 to 6 p.m.

For questions or inquiries, please contact promotion@repatarmenia.org.

ARLINGTON, Mass.—After a successful European tour, Women of 1915 will make its Boston premiere on April 2, at the historic Regent Theatre of Arlington, Mass. The event is sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Cambridge Shushi chapter and a limited number of tickets are still available.

After a successful European tour, Women of 1915 will make its Boston premiere on April 2, at the historic Regent Theatre of Arlington, Mass. The event is sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Cambridge Shushi chapter.

“Our European tour started in London at the Navasartian Hall, organized by the local Hamazkayin and the ARS,” said the film’s director, Bared Maronian.

The very successful London premiere of the film was followed by six equally successful screenings in France: Paris, Issy-de-Moulineoux,  Alfortville, Décines, Valance, and Marseille.

All screenings in France were organized by the Blue Cross of France and The Armenian National Committee (ANC) of France.

After a successful European tour, Women of 1915 will make its Boston premiere on April 2, at the historic Regent Theatre of Arlington, Mass. The event is sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Cambridge Shushi chapter.

The Mayor of Décines, Madam Laurence Fautra, awarded Bared Maronian with the Medal of Ville de Décines Charpieu for his work on Women of 1915. Local Armenian and French newspapers also praised the film on several occasions.

“I am very thankful to the French and Armenian communities for their warm reception of the film,” said Maronian.

Women of 1915 premiers in Boston on April 2, at 2 p.m at the Regent Theatre of Arlington, Mass. For tickets, please call 781-856-7375.

YEREVAN (A.W.)— April 2 marked the one year anniversary of the 2016 April War, when Azerbaijan launched a large-scale offensive on Artsakh’s (Nagorno Karabagh) military and civilian population, leading to the death of over 100 Armenian servicemen and nine civilians.

On April 1, the AYF of Armenia held gathered at Yerablur and paid their respects all fallen Armenian soldiers, on the occasion of the first anniversary of the war.

In Yerevan, crowds gathered at the Yerablur Military Pantheon to pay tribute to the memory of Armenian servicemen who have sacrificed their lives for Artsakh. Armenian President Serge Sarkisian, Yerevan Mayor, Taron Margaryan, and Chief of General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Movses Hakobyan were also present paying their respects.

Artsakh President Bako Sahakyan also released a statement on the occasion, stressing that Azerbaijanis failed their large scale offensive because Armenia, Artsakh, and the Armenian Diaspora form a united front.

Sahakyan reiterated that Armenians have proven that a free and independent Armenia is a priority for Armenians and that Armenians are able to defend themselves against any threat.

He also honored the soldiers who lost their lives in the 2016 April War and stated that their valor and bravery will continue to inspire generations of young people for year. Sahakyan said that one year after the war, Azerbaijan continues their anti Armenian policies and their increased aggression.

“All these once again confirm a century-long truth for our people: we must always be strong and united, protect our freedom and independence and build a worthy future for the generations to come,” concluded the Artsakh President’s statement on president’s website.

Meanwhile, the Artskah Defense Ministry reported that on the night of April 1 -2, Azerbaijan violated the ceasefire regiment over 30 times, firing more than 330 shots at Armenian positions with small caliber weapons. The Artsakh Defense Army assured that they are in full control of the situation at the frontline.

A day earlier, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) of Armenia held gathered at Yerablur and paid their respects all fallen Armenian soldiers, on the occasion of the first anniversary of the war.

OTTAWA, Canada— On April 3, The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), launched a media campaign entitled “Turkey: Thirty Days of Shame” aimed at informing Canadians about Turkey’s continuous denial of the Armenian Genocide, while highlighting its blatant and consistent abuse of human rights, descent to autocracy, and rising threat to regional and global peace.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

For the entire month of April, every weekday the ANCC will post one article, video, or human rights report highlighting Turkey’s continuing disrespect for human rights and its ruling regime’s efforts to gloss over its gross violations with slick propaganda, political bullying, and misinformation.

“Day by day, through the media and other sources, Canadians are becoming more familiar with the true face of the state of Turkey. It’s dismal human rights record, disregard to democracy and the rule of law and its state-sponsored policies of political intimidation and discrimination have become defining characteristics of Recep Tayip Erdogan’s regime, urging the international community to reconsider its policies towards Turkey” stated ANCC president Shahen Mirakian.

The daily postings will be made on the ANCC website, the ANCC Facebook page and on the ANCC Twitter page.

Postings will follow particular themes that, amongst others, will include political freedoms; freedom of speech and expression; President Erdogan’s corrupt regime, and; Turkey’s continuous denial of the Armenian Genocide.

The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian grassroots human rights organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues and works to eliminate abuses of human rights throughout Canada and the world.

STEPANAKERT, Artsakh—On April 3, Artsakh’s President Bako Sahakyan received a large group of artists, activists, and celebrities, including musician and composer Serj Tankian, film director and screenwriter Atom Egoyan, actress Arsinee Khanjian, as well as philanthropists, and representatives of the Artsakh Fund’s United States branch, who were in Artsakh at the invitation of the Tufenkian Foundation.

A scene from the meeting with Artsakh’s President Bako Sahakyan (Photo: Office of the President of the Artsakh Republic)

Various issues regarding life in Artsakh, the state-building process in the country, regional trends, and the Motherland-Diaspora ties were touched upon during the meeting.

“The Head of the State considered important such visits to Artsakh noting their positive impact on developing culture in the republic, introducing Artsakh to the outer world, and strengthening the inter-Armenian ties,” read a part of the statement released by the President’s office.

ENCINO, Calif. — The Armenian Youth Federation Western United States (AYF-WUS) “With Our Soldiers” campaign hosted a commemorative event honoring the fallen soldiers from last year’s Four Day War in Artsakh. The event brought together over 330 people with a program filled with speeches, spoken word, music, and testimonies, reemphasizing the Armenian community’s dedication to the protection of Artsakh.

Hundreds in attendance held candles in remembrance of the fallen soldiers.

“Commemoration events like this, especially in the Diaspora, restate our strong position to defend our people’s right to self-determination, reminding the world that the Diaspora plays an integral role in the Artsakh Liberation Movement,” said Verginie Touloumian, chairperson of the committee.

The event was held at Ferrahian Armenian School and opened with a prayer for the safety of the soldiers defending Artsakh. “With Our Soldiers” committee member and the event’s emcee Alik Ourfalian highlighted through the opening remarks the dangers of indifference in the struggle for Artsakh’s autonomy. Throughout the event, various videos were presented describing the situation in Artsakh, the details of the Four Day War, and the past work of the “With Our Soldiers” campaign.

Hratch Avedissian, “With Our Soldiers” committee member, described the steps the AYF took on April 3, 2016, when an emergency meeting was called to decide the appropriate response to the escalation of violence by Azerbaijan. At that meeting, the AYF decided to relaunch the “With Our Soldiers” campaign, which has raised $130,000 in this last year. That amount was distributed by AYFand Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) members to 112 families of fallen soldiers in Armenia and Artsakh.

“We, as AYF members, in the face of delusional politics, show our stance — not just by words, but with our actions — further strengthening the ‘With Our Soldiers’ campaign and also, supporting initiatives that reaffirm Diaspora-Armenia ties,” Avedissian said. “We assure and prove that the safety of Artsakh can only be guaranteed through standing by the Armenian soldiers, reaffirming the idea of azk-panag (national army), and standing against treacherous concessions.”

Performances included singer Krisdapor Arabian, Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School’s Spoken Word Ensemble, the AYF Juniors, and the Ferrahian Armenian School choir. Five AYF Juniors read biographies of fallen soldiers while event attendees held candles in remembrance of the heroes of the Four Day War. Arman Avetisyan, a soldier wounded on April 2, 2016, while defending Artsakh, relayed to the crowd the strength of the Armenian Army, stating, “Karabagh is ours, Artsakh is ours.”

The violations that began on April 2, 2016, in Artsakh were not the first of its kind since the ceasefire was signed in 1994, nor did they end after the four days. April 2 marks a year since villages and civilians were attacked by a neighboring country that continues to deny the basic right of autonomy to a people who will never cease to struggle. The commemoration event remembered the fallen heroes who dedicated their lives to protecting the rights of others, the injured coping with the aftermath, and families who have lost their loved ones.

“The message we hoped to convey to our community—and especially to the youth—was that we must do everything we can to stand by the soldiers on the front lines,” said Ourfalian. “Whether it be through financial, political, or any other means, it is our duty as Armenians to fight every single day for the just resolution of the Artsakh conflict.”

Founded in 1933 with organizational structures in over 17 regions around the world and a legacy of over eighty years of community involvement, the Armenian Youth Federation is the largest and most influential Armenian-American youth organization in the world, working to advance the social, political, educational, and cultural awareness of Armenian youth.

BEIRUT, Lebanon—On April 4, members of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Zavarian Student Association of Lebanon held apeaceful demonstration at the University of Holy Spirit of Kaslik, during a lecture on the history of contemporary Turkey, delivered by Turkish historian İlber Ortaylı—a well-known denier of the  Armenian Genocide.

On April 4, members of the ARF Zavarian Student Association held a peaceful demonstration at the University of Holy Spirit of Kaslik. (Photo: ARF Zavarian Student Association)

Zavarian Student Association members chanted “genocide denialist,” “shame on you,” and “we are here,” during Ortaylı’s lecture.

“We as Lebanese know very well how Turkish authorities have starved and tortured the dependents of the Ottoman Empire. We as the survivors of the Armenian Genocide, are the living proof of the atrocities and indescribable crimes against humanity the Turks committed,” read a part of the statement released by the student group following the demonstration.

Click here for a a video from the demonstration.

According to the statement,  the aim of the peaceful campaign was to spread awareness and remind the public about the denialist and intolerant nature of the Turkish state, that tries to “spread its political, economic,and cultural influence in the Middle East” and to remind the Holy University of Kaslik that Ortaylı’s lecture “does not suit its reputation.”

“The Holy Spirit University of Kaslik has always been and will always remain the supporters of humanitarian causes and have opposed all sorts of injustice. The University should have also hosted unbiased Turkish historians who are brave enough to speak the truth on the history and the bloody path of ‘Turkey’s nation building,’” read a part of the statement.

NEW YORK— The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Eastern USA Regional Board ushered in the month of April with an astounding art exhibit featuring the works of Arthur Pinajian. His abstract and late lyrical works were arranged to be exhibited at St. Illuminator’s John Pashalian Hall.

The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Eastern USA Regional Board ushered in the month of April with an astounding art exhibit featuring the works of Arthur Pinajian.

The exhibit was organized as a fundraiser for the ARS Eastern Region’s Education Fund, which annually grants scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students throughout the USA. The exhibit was open for viewing the last few days of March with guests stopping by throughout the week to view the many displayed works. Thomas Schultz, the founder of the works and registrar and Anto Gharibian, Assistant Director, Pinajian Estate Collection, were available to answer questions throughout the exhibit which helped one to carve an image of the painter and his life.

Pinajian’s abstract and late lyrical works were arranged to be exhibited at St. Illuminator’s John Pashalian Hall.

On the evening of April 1, many art enthusiasts gathered for the opening reception to join in this celebration of Pinajian’s art. In addition to the art display, a video, Arthur Pinajian Master of Abstraction Discovered, produced by Keif Roberts and Donald Pruden, was run continuously so that guests could watch a segment about the artist’s life.

On the evening of April 1, many art enthusiasts gathered for the opening reception to join in this celebration of Pinajian’s art.

The reception officially opened when ARS Eastern USA board member and Chairwoman of the art exhibit committee, Sonia Bezdikian, welcomed those gathered, including Very Reverend Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar General, Reverend Father Mesrob Lakissian, pastor and Sylvia Kouyoumdjian, ARS Central Executive Board member. Mrs. Bezdikian spoke about what inspired her to consider Pinajian as a desirable artist to feature for the Board’s event. She noted that Father Mesrob Lakissian had a prior association with the Pinajian estate and his willingness to support the ARS Board in bringing this event to his parish were key. Mrs. Bezdikian said, “Here we are after one year, and after several meetings with Mr. Schultz, my dream became a reality.” Bezdikian encouraged everyone to take advantage of this amazing opportunity for ownership and also help the ARS’ Education Fund.

Mrs. Bezdikian thanked Father Lakissian and the members of the art committee, Linda Keshishian, Arpi Misserlian, Mary Ohanessian, Ani Panossian and Nayda Voskerijian who helped to make this event a successful one. She then invited Vice-chairperson of the ARS Eastern USA board, Sandra Vartanian, to address the guests.

Sandra Vartanian welcomed the clergy, ARS Central Executive Board member Kouyoumdjian, ARS Board Members Mary Anne Bonjuklian and Margie Babikian-Medina and guests thanking them for choosing to make this event and the ARS their priority that evening. She then highlighted some of the ARS programs in the USA and abroad such as support of the local Armenian schools, the Sponsor a Child Orphan program, Camp Haiastan, the Youth Connect program and ANEC. The ARS’ participation with the United Nations and its consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) were also mentioned.

Guests learned that the ARS Eastern USA chapters have been actively organizing fundraisers for Syrian Armenian relief in order to support those in dire need.

Guests learned that the ARS Eastern USA chapters have been actively organizing fundraisers for Syrian Armenian relief in order to support those in dire need. Ms. Vartanian also shared that this region supports the Soseh Kindergarten in the Medz Tagher village of Artsakh and will be participating with many others in the reopening of the Soseh Kindergarten in Stepanakert this September.

Vartanian spoke about the evening’s purpose, to expand the Education Fund and expressed the need for Pinajian’s work to be exposed to the public as much as possible. “These treasured pieces, once in obscurity are now brought into the light of our lives through this exhibit. His spirit lives on through these works and are highly revered by the art world,” she said.

After learning that Pinajian was the son of survivors of the Armenian Genocide of 1915, guests were asked to explore more about Pinajian by reading about him in the books that were available that evening. They would find out that he was also an extremely talented cartoonist.

Vartanian concluded by wishing everyone a pleasant evening, asking them to perhaps return to their homes with an authentic Pinajian piece. Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian was then invited to speak to the gathered.

Very Reverend Anoushavan Tanielian greeted the attendees and expressed how pleased he was that education was the purpose behind the show. He invited Rev. Father Lakissian to join him and acknowledged the support he provided for this event. In inviting Thomas Schultz to also join them, he said though Thomas is not Armenian, he attends to the works of Pinajian and to the community as one of our own.

Guests were then left to enjoy the evening with family, friends and the viewing of works which were grouped together by the earlier works when the artist resided in Woodstock, N.Y., and then the later works from his days spent in Bellport, Long Island. Many of his works were not publicly shown during his life because according to Schultz, because Pinajian was a private person, not working toward exhibiting his work, but painting purely for the love of it.

At the end of the evening what happily remained was the satisfaction of knowing that the event was well organized and succeeded in its goals. That of promoting the art of a recently discovered and now well respected Armenian-American artist, and to bring together art lovers, the community and new friends to raise funds for a worthy cause.

The ARS Eastern USA Board of Regional Directors is extremely grateful to Rev. Father Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral for his assistance. It also deeply appreciates the work of the members of the art committee as well as the many friends and family members who supported this event with their participation and who contributed to its great success.

DETROIT, Mich.—The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA members convened in Detroit to learn more about ways to hone their leadership skills and reconnect to the values that have driven the ARS for over 100 years.

The seminar participants

Hosted by Detroit’s five ARS chapters—Maro, Shakeh, Sybille, Tsolig, and Zabelle—the seminar was held at the behest of the 2016 ARS Eastern USA Convention, which has passed similar resolutions in the past to boost the educational opportunities for ARS members.

The event attracted ARS of Eastern USA members and friends, and members from ARS Canada’s Windsor chapter, just across the Detroit River and minutes away from the St. Sarkis Church hall seminar location.

The seminar kicked off with a “Team Building and Leadership” session led by guest speaker Kathy Tosoian, Dale Carnegie Training director of educational services and youth development.  Tosoian based her session on Dale Carnegie leadership principles.

A scene from the seminar

Working in small groups, participants discussed the purpose of their “team,” the ARS, what their own role is on that ARS “team,” and how those roles contribute to the ARS’s success. Participants reported out the benefits they’ve experienced working on their ARS “team” and reflected on the value additional focused teambuilding could have on their ARS work.

Tosoian also introduced participants to Dale Carnegie’s first nine human relations principles as set forth in his famous book, How to Win Friends and Influence People. Among the compelling human relations principles Tosoian conveyed were “Don’t criticize, condemn or complain,” “Give honest, sincere appreciation,” and “Make the other person feel important and do it sincerely.” In their workgroups, participants discussed the positive impact applying the Carnegie principles into daily leadership roles could have on membership and community relations.

A scene from the seminar

Tosoian’s session concluded with a fun team-building exercise called “The Marshmallow Challenge” which required grouped participants to build a freestanding structure using 20 dry spaghetti pieces, a string, and tape and topping off that structure with a marshmallow.

The afternoon was devoted to “Reconnecting to our ARS Purpose: Emblem, Anthem, Oath, Purpose, Objectives” led by Ungh. Georgi-Ann Oshagan, past ARS Eastern USA and Central Executive board member and Detroit ARS Maro chapter member.

Oshagan emphasized the tendency of leaders and members of any organization to find themselves in a rut and responding to feelings of organizational alienation or frustration by withdrawing or repeating activities year after year to satisfy community responsibilities. She noted that experts encourage employees and volunteers—especially of non-profit organizations—to rejuvenate by reaching deep and reflecting on the organizational values that originally compelled them to connect and join the non-profit in the first place.

In interactive large group activities, Oshagan challenged participants to name the ARS’s values by reflecting on the ARS emblem’s components, and continued to connect the participants’ values list to the ARS anthem, member oath, and purpose and objectives as set forth in the ARS Eastern USA Constitution and Bylaws.  She returned to the emblem to ask participants to reflect on the ARS’s image and its daily chapter work vis a vis the ARS’s stated objectives. The connection among the ARS’s founding values touchstones formed the foundation for a rousing group discussion that focused on the leadership tools needed to develop chapter activities that are aligned with the ARS’s purpose and mission.

ARS members at the seminar

The session concluded with every participant describing her post-session state of mind using one word, which included “inspired,” “hopeful,” and “informed.”

ARS Eastern USA Chairwoman Talin Daghlian closed the seminar by thanking participants for taking the time to attend and noting that the ARS values and reconnection session will be part of a larger ARS leadership educational training that will be presented at the upcoming July ARS Eastern USA convention for implementation in the upcoming fiscal year.

For more information about the ARS Eastern USA or to join a chapter near you, contact the ARS Eastern USA office at (617) 926-3801 or write to arseastus@gmail.com.

MIAMI, Fla. (A.W.)—On a warm and beautiful sunny day, Armenian Heritage Cruise XX 2017 sailed from Miami, Fla. for a spectacular nine-day getaway.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

On Jan. 20, over 1,300 Armenians boarded the Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. This truly remarkable boat is a most innovative ship, featuring an ice-skating rink, rock climbing wall, full size basketball court, and much more.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Armenians joined from all over the world including from Australia, Armenia, Canada, England, France, Germany, Lebanon, and over 25 states within the U.S. We were honored to have onboard His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy and the former Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of Armenia, Ambassador John M. Evans and his wife Donna

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Twenty years ago, we started out with a few hundred guests, and today we have over 1,300 Armenians from all over the world. Over the last twenty years, family, friends, and new acquaintances have come together for non-stop Armenian entertainment and cultural events. We have also seen a few engagements and marriages as a result of this fantastic cruise!

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

The cruise departed from Miami, Fla. on the evening of Jan. 20 and our destinations included Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and Labadee. Our days aboard the ship started out with Armenian Church Service led by His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

For those who needed a little help on the dance floor, Margo Kaftajian taught basic Armenian Dance, such as the Shourch Bar, Tamzara, Haleh and many more. Guests could register for Backgammon and Belote tournaments under the direction of Antranik Boudakian with John M. Jerikian and Hampar Vartanian.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Maro Assadourian had a special table set up for the Armenian Heritage Tour 2017 to Armenia and Karabagh departing on Sept. 17 – Oct. 1. Each day the ACAA Hospitality desk was open to assist passengers with all their needs. The Hairenik Bookstore returned this year, providing the opportunity for attendees to purchase Armenian books and unique Armenian merchandise.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

The entertainment aboard the cruise this year was truly exceptional, we all enjoyed listening to bands and singers such as Joseph Krikorian, Kevork Artinian, and Harout Khatchoyan. We enjoyed a concert by Antranik Mouradian featuring Salbi Mailyan, Harout Hagopian, and Armen Hovhannissyan, a unique collaboration of musicians showcasing their different styles of Armenian music together.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Comedian, musician and actor Kev Orkian from the U.K. entertained the audience with a one-man piano comedy performance that was truly spectacular. This is the third time he has performed on the Armenian Heritage Cruise and he is more phenomenal each time!

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

This year for the first time, we had a special program and CME Seminar for medical health care professionals and dentists. The registrants were able to attend specific medical classes to obtain accreditation, which was affiliated with Columbia University and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. The lectures were conducted by renowned authorities in health care, who have made major contributions to improve education and increasing the standards of health care in Armenia. The program featured Dr. John Bilezikian, Dr. Raffy Havanessian, and Dr. Varduhi Petrosyan, Dr. Robert Bargranian, and Dr. Laurence Najarian. The discussion included initiatives in Health policy and Management, osteoporosis awareness, and delivery of eye and dental care.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

The first night there was a Welcome Reception hosted by Maria Tavitian and Margo Kaftajian, all of the week’s activities and highlights were announced. The first two days were spent at sea, from sunrise to sunset one could be active aboard the ship or one could just lay back and relax in the luxurious stateroom. Most of us spent the night dancing away until the wee hours of the morning to the sounds of Armenian music. During these Sea Days, there were Cultural Programs of Armenian interests. Wednesday evening there was an Armenian dinner along with complimentary wine. After dinner there was an ACAA Gala Cocktail Party sponsored by Travel Group International and the ACAA Armenian Cruise committee.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

On the morning of Jan. 27, Barbara Haroutunian and her committee organized the Armenian Festival Pool Party. Prizes were awarded for the best Armenian tri-color outfit. Along with face painting, Margo Kaftajian’s dance class performed the Shourch Bar. The island of Labadee is on the north coast of Haiti and is privately owned by Royal Caribbean. At the end of this beautiful island the area was reserved exclusively for the Armenian Heritage guests where we enjoyed Armenian music, beautiful beaches, and an Armenian lunch prepared by the ship.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Aruba is a gorgeous island full of colorful outdoor markets and historic sites. The day was spent relaxing and enjoying white sandy beaches or shopping in many of the Duty free stores. Curacao is a sophisticated Dutch island 35 miles off the coast of Venezuela, with candy colored buildings that made it look like a tropical Holland. Between the natural beauty of this island and the colonial treasures of its historic capital, Curacao is perhaps one of the wealthiest Caribbean destinations.

Bonaire is a “diver’s paradise,” and almost every day is perfect for diving and snorkeling. The island sits just 11 degrees north of the equator, where the sun shines for nearly 12 hours a day and the temperatures are in the eighties almost all year round. Each day there were speeches and programs about relevant Armenian topics:

• Cosmic Ray Division in Armenia – Scientific Excellence on a Global Scale, Presented by Anahid Yeremian.
• Four Day War and Its Aftermath – Presented by Mary Matosian.
• Knights and Daughters of Vartan – a reception and presentation for the fraternal organization.
• ARS Tea Reception and Presentation
• Truth Held Hostage: America and the Armenian Genocide – What Then? What Now… – Presented by Ambassador John Evans.
• Armenian Business Networking Hour
• Current Armenian Situation in the Middle East – Presented by Serpazan Anoushavan Tanielian.
• Current Political Situation in Armenia and Artsakh – Presented by Dr. Antranig Kasbarian.
• Round Table Discussion – Armenia and Artsakh – Moderated by Dr. Raffi Hovanessian, Ambassador John Evans, and Dr. Antranig Kasbarian.

In 1997, it began as a dream and 20 years later it is one of the most thrilling vacations of a lifetime! Armenian Heritage Cruise is about reaching new heights with the buzz and bustle of unparalleled entertainment, visiting beautiful islands, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The Armenian cruise is about fun and culture, and on the ship Armenians from all over the world stand together as one group and one nation.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

The Armenian Heritage Cruise strives to bring Armenians from all over the world together for a week of cultural, educational, religious, charitable organizations and activities on the national and international level for the betterment of the Armenian nation and people worldwide. The ACAA is a registered Armenian 501 © 3 , non-profit corporation and donations are tax deductible that primarily assist in cultural activities, research on Armenian topics, grants to Armenian newspapers, publications, internships, depository guardian of the original governmental archives of the first Armenian Republic of 1918 and other Historic Armenian National documents. From all over the United States, dedicated individuals have volunteered to work on this fabulous event. We put aside our political and religious differences and come together as ARMENIANS to support one nation, one people and one purpose – “A Free and Independent Armenia”. We look forward to seeing you on Armenian Heritage Cruise XXI 2018, sailing January 20-28, 2018 aboard the beautiful Royal Caribbean’s – FREEDOM OF THE SEAS, sailing to St. Kitts, St. Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Royal Caribbean’s private island of Labadee.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Join us next year and you are sure to enjoy a “Hye Adventure” on the “Hye Seas” like no other in the Carribean. Enjoy this unique experience of a lifetime on “THE ORIGINAL ARMENIAN CRUISE”, where the Armenian spirit comes alive on the Caribbean Sea. For reservations and information about Armenian Heritage Cruise XXI contact Travel Group International at 866-447-0750.

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

Comments from a Few Pleased Passengers

“I have always wanted to go on the Armenian Heritage Cruise and finally I joined all of my friends and bought a ticket. From the first day to the last day of our cruise, everything was very well organized. I was amazed that every night there was a variety of programs, dances, and educational lectures. I can’t wait to be back again next year.”

Shake Tokmanian
Glendale, California

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

“What a magnificent cruise, and ‘Hats Off’ to you, your committee members and staff for all the hard work in putting on this annual event. It only seems to get better and better each year. We were entertained with concerts, comedians, dances, and ice-skating. We had some thought provoking lectures as well. It has proven to be a relaxing time of the year to spend quality time with friends from across the country and even from our own back yards. We look forward to joining you next year, or can we do it twice a year? Keep up the good work, because you know, given the opportunity, Armenians love to party on! God willing, see you next year.”

The Garakians
Los Angeles, California

“This year I had the pleasure of being part of the 20th Anniversary of the Armenian Heritage Cruise. I did not know what to expect as I am an Armenian from Sydney. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderfully organized cruise. Not only did we enjoy the beautiful islands but also all the wonderful Armenians we met from all over the word. Every night was a party and we sang and danced and had a ball. I made memories that I will not forget. I recommend to every Armenian who has the opportunity to take this cruise, as it takes you back to your roots. I would like to congratulate the committee for a job well done. Vartzgernit Gadar!”

Tamar Kelleyan
Sydney, Australia

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

“I came on the AHC with my husband Vardges and we were surprised to see so many Armenians from so many countries from all over the world greeting their friends from previous cruises. On every corner of the ship we could hear the Armenian language. We attended wonderful lectures, concerts and in the evening saw how Armenians from different countries dance. I was able to meet people who were on the cruise for the 20th time. Every activity on the AHC cruise supports with confidence that Armenians are alive and will continue to live and prosper.”

Roza Harutyunyan and Vardges Babyan
Yerevan, Armenia

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

“This is my second time I’m sailing with the AHC coming all the way from Lebanon. I truly enjoyed the various programs on medical and political issues, and above all the great cultural events. This was the result of the hard work of the committee. When I go back to Lebanon, I will cherish the memorable time we spent together making new friends from different backgrounds. I would like to congratulate the organizing committee members for such a successful achievement. God Bless!”

Aline Kayianjian Ohanian
Beirut, Lebanon

(Photo: jdvideo.com)

“1,300 happy, joyous, festive and boisterous Armenians in the midst of a tropical paradise. What could be better?”

Hagop and Aida Dakessian
Jackson, Michigan

To what extent do fancy parties with celebrity saturated guest lists affect positive social change?

ONEArmenia’s Country Director Anahit Galstyan chatting with Prince Harry at Landmine Free 2025 (Photo: HALO Trust)

In the case of landmines and the impact they have, namely in developing countries, it turns out the answer is quite a lot.

On April 4, International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, the HALO Trust and Mines Advisory Group (MAG) hosted Landmine Free 2025 at Kensington Palace, at which Prince Harry spoke, pledging to take action to remove all landmines from the world by the year 2025.

ONEArmenia’s current campaign, Remove Landmines from Artsakh, which aims to clear 31,839m² of land near the village of Meghvadzor in Artsakh Republic (Nagorno-Karabagh Republic) works in partnership with the HALO Trust. ONEArmenia’s founder, Patrick Sarkissian and Country Director Anahit Galstyan, attended Landmine Free 2025 to learn more about the global initiative to rid the world of these dangerous and destructive remnants of war.

Pledging to remove landmines is all well and good, but unless that pledge is then backed up with the action it promises to take, it isn’t much use to anyone.

Which is why following Prince Harry’s poignant and uplifting speech, in which he recalled his late mother’s own personal campaign to raise awareness of the danger of landmines, Priti Patel, newly appointed Secretary of State for International Development, announced that the U.K. government would increase its spending on landmine clearance to £100 million (approx. $125 million) over three years.

It is through a combination of awareness and action that the lofty goal of removing all landmines from the world by 2025 will be accomplished. Princess Diana set the stage when she took a stroll through a minefield in Angola 20 years ago. As Prince Harry noted in his address, she felt obliged to take action.

ONEArmenia’s founder, Patrick Sarkissian and Country Director Anahit Galstyan, attended Landmine Free 2025. Nina and Raffi Festekjian, campaign Co-Chairs, Sandra and Olivia Leitner of the SJS Charitable Trust, and Oscar Tatosian also attended the event. (Photo: HALO Trust)

“My mother had been shocked and appalled by the impact that landmines were having on incredibly vulnerable people and on children in particular… She refused to accept that these destructive weapons should be left where they were, just because they were perceived as too expensive and difficult to remove.”

The Prince himself has been similarly moved to take action, as was seen in his recent trips to Angola and Mozambique. The phrase “following in his mother’s footsteps” has been used extensively to describe his recent activities as he quite literally walks the same ground she did in an effort to raise awareness.

Princess Diana’s efforts had an impact. She sparked a global conversation around a subject, which had, up until that point, gone largely unnoticed. Some criticized her actions, while others applauded them. ONEArmenia’s country director writes that as a little girl she was inspired by Diana’s bravery. How appropriate, then, that today she is leading a team of women in Yerevan to crowdfund and digitally market a campaign which will raise the funds necessary to take action against landmines in Artsakh.

“It’s inspirational that people like Prince Harry are involved in supporting campaigns like this, and what ONEArmenia is doing is offering individuals around the world the opportunity to say ‘I made this happen,’” says Galstyan upon having met Prince Harry and spoken to him about the project.

So what do the events at Kensington Palace and the coinciding pledge mean for ONEArmenia’s campaign? Financially, not much. The money pledged by the British government will not be allocated to places like Artsakh, which is an internationally disputed territory. This means that there is still a need for individual donors to contribute to the cause and support the efforts of ONEArmenia to Remove Landmines from Artsakh.

While Landmine Free 2025 did not necessarily result in the financing of the clearance that needs to take place, it did go a long way towards raising awareness of the issue in Artsakh, which is half the battle. Prior to Princess Diana’s historic trip to Angola, how many people could point to Angola on a map? At best, most would wave vaguely at the African continent. Regardless of whether people agreed with her actions or not, the Princess of Wales set into motion a decades long struggle to end the violence that results from the hidden danger presented by landmines.

Today, the end is in sight. We can realistically set a goal for a future free of landmines. On a global scale, that goal is 2025.

For Artsakh, the HALO Trust estimates that it is possible for the region to be cleared of landmines by 2020.

Fundraising for Artsakh Kindergarten is Ongoing at https://safepay.paymentlogistics.net/transaction.asp

WASHINGTON (A.W.)—On April 1, the Washington Satenig chapter of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Eastern Region held a fundraiser for the ARS Stepanakert Soseh Kindergarten Rebuilding Project at the home of Dr. Grigor and Mrs. Arax Khachikian.  Ungerouhi Angele Manoogian, the Committee Chair, updated guests about the project and the importance of the ARS’ support of this worthwhile endeavor.

Some of the fundraiser attendees (Photo: ARS)

The Soseh Kindergarten opened in April 1998 with the aim of meeting the needs of the children of Artsakh War soldiers and their families, by assisting and providing for their early childhood education. In April 2014, the Nagorno-Karabagh (Artsakh) Republic Seismic Service found the building to be hazardous and ordered the closure of the kindergarten.

The ARS Central Executive Board decided to demolish the building and rebuild a new state of the art facility. The newly constructed kindergarten will house more than 130 students. Through the community’s generous donations, the project is near completion and the opening ceremony will take place on Sept. 6.

A scene from the fundraiser (Photo: ARS)

The ARS would like to thank all its friends who attended and donated. The ARs would also like to sincerely thank Dr. and Mrs. Khachikian for their kind hospitality.

Those who would like to support the Soseh Kindergarten may do so online at https://safepay.paymentlogistics.net/transaction.asp. The ARS Eastern United States is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.  All donations are tax-deductible.

By Sylvahna Menissian

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (A.W.)—The Homenetmen of Providence, R.I., will host the 27th Annual Homenetmen Eastern United States Navasartian Games on Fourth of July weekend (July 1-4).

The Providence community recently announced the launch of the Navasartian Games website. All the information about the games is now all in one convenient location. Attendees can now book hotel rooms, purchase dance tickets, and buy ads in the ad-book.

The 27th Homenetmen Eastern U.S. Navasartian Games will be held in Providence, R.I.

Hotel

The Providence Biltmore, located in the heart of downtown Providence, will be the headquarters for the weekend. Rooms are still available to reserve for an affordable rate of $129 for a single and $139 for a double. Rooms are filling up fast so be sure to make your reservations as soon as possible. Please call 401-421-0700 and mention “Homenetmen” for the discounted room rate. Or follow this link when booking online: https://secure3.hilton.com/en_US/qq/reservation/book.htm?inputModule=HOTEL&ctyhocn=PVDCUQQ&spec_plan=HOMENE&arrival=20170630&departure=20170704&cid=OM,WW,HILTONLINK,EN,DirectLink&fromId=HILTONLINKDIRECT

Athletic Facilities

Athletic events will be taking place at East Greenwhich High School (300 Avenger Dr, East Greenwich, R.I. 02818). Swimming will take place at Park View Middle School (25 Park View Blvd #1, Cranston, R.I. 02910).  Transportation to and from the hotel will be provided for hotel guests.

Dance

The Sunday night dance will feature Kevork Artinian and Band at the Providence Biltmore at 8 p.m. Monday night’s Victory Gala Dinner Dance will feature Elie Berberian and Band at the Rhode Island Convention Center. Dinner will begin at 7 p.m. with the dance to follow.

You can purchase your dance tickets and VIP packages here: https://navasartian.ticketleap.com/ 

Ad Book

We strongly encourage all to take out an ad in this year’s ad book. The deadline to submit an ad book form is May 27th, 2017. Link to ad book form: https://www.navasartianeusa.com/ad-book-online-submission

Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date with the Navasartian Games.

Website: https://www.navasartianeusa.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/navasartian.eusa/
Twitter: @NavasartianEast
Instagram: Navasartian.East
Snapchat: navasartianeast

BOCA RATON, Fla.—As Armenians and Jews around world will gather this month to commemorate Yom HaShoah and Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, which happen to fall on the same day this year, Congregation B’nai Israel and the Armenian Genocide Commemoration, Inc. have organized a joint program of remembrance with a screening of the critically acclaimed film Denial at Congregation B’nai Israel, 2200 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, Fla. 33431 on April 23 at 6 p.m.

The film’s theatrical poster

Based on the book Denial: Holocaust History on Trial, Denial recounts Deborah E. Lipstadt’s (Academy Award® winner Rachel Weisz) legal battle for historical truth against David Irving (BAFTA nominee Timothy Spall), who accused her of libel when she declared him a Holocaust denier. In the English legal system, in cases of libel, the burden of proof is on the defendant, therefore it was up to Lipstadt and her legal team, led by Richard Rampton (Academy Award® nominee Tom Wilkinson), to prove the essential truth that the Holocaust occurred.

“The Armenian and Jewish communities have a shared historical pain.  Our religions may be different, but our stories are the same.  Families broken apart and slaughtered in campaigns of ethnic cleansing that took millions of lives from us, an uprooting of a people and a way of life, our survival and that we have not only survived but thrived, and a vow to remember and never forget” commented Arsine Kaloustian, the Chair of Armenian Genocide Commemoration, Inc.  “We also share the vigilance against any denial of these atrocities, which makes the theme of the film so relevant for both communities,” she added.

The program will begin with a catered welcome reception, while a multi-panel presentation on prejudice and genocide given created by students from Palm Beach Central High School will be on public display.  Local Armenian and Jewish community leaders will then deliver brief remarks and discuss the importance of the film. After the film screening, the evening will conclude with an interfaith candlelit prayer service from local religious leaders.

“We human beings, created in the divine image, have a Godly responsibility to speak out and act against the atrocity of the extermination of any people because of their race, religion, or ethnicity. Too often people are complicit in their silence against those who would deny such a holocaust. The lessons of history must be studied and learned so that we might chart a better course for humanity. It does not do justice to our Godly responsibilities to ignore, deny, or reframe human history,” stated Rabbi Robert A. Silvers of Congregation B’nai Israel.

The event is free and open to the public. Members of the media are also invited to participate. Space is limited and RSVP is required. Please register online at: www.rememberthem.eventbrite.com.

About the Organizers

Armenian Genocide Commemoration, Inc. (AGC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose purpose is to observe and commemorate the Armenian Genocide of 1915 when the Ottoman Turkish Empire systematically annihilated 1.5 million Armenians through a campaign of ethnic cleansing, as well as raise public awareness of all genocides.  AGC is responsible for planning and executing all Armenian Genocide related activities within Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

Founded in 1989, Congregation B’nai Israel is now considered one of the landmark reform congregations in the country. With nearly 1,000 families, a religious school serving over 600 students, and early childhood programs considered one of the finest in the nation, Congregation B’nai Israel, or CBI, is more than just a synagogue. It is a thriving and connected Jewish community, joyfully inspired by tradition and passionately committed to worship, study, and repairing the world.

BOSTON, Mass.—His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios will lead the first ever Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston commemoration of the Armenian Genocide at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of New England on April 22.

The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of New England

His Eminence will host this 102nd commemorative event and preside at the 2 p.m. prayer service.

Clergy and faithful from throughout New England will participate. The community will be joined by ecumenical and interreligious guests and civic dignitaries.

Last year, Cardinal Seán O’Malley of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston hosted the event and repeated the words of Pope Francis acknowledging the suffering of Armenian Christians who perished in the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

The year’s prayer service will be co-sponsored with the Massachusetts Council of Churches of which the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston and the Armenian Church in America are both members.

Joining in the commemoration will be His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian of The Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America and His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan from The Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. They serve as the two Armenian Orthodox leaders in the Eastern United States.

His Excellency Bishop Mikael Mouradian, who leads the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of the United States and Canada, will be represented by his vicar general, Monsignor Andon Atamian together with The Armenian Evangelical Clergy and congregations participating in the service.

On the eve of the 100th Armenian Genocide memorial service, at Trinity Church in Copley Square, together with heads of churches and church leaders, Metropolitan Methodios said:

“Tonight, we re-read that shameful chapter of history and promise ourselves never to forget those who endured that most barbaric and savage massacre. In a single year, 1915, the Armenian people were robbed of their 3000-year-old heritage. The desecration of churches, the burning of libraries, the destruction of towns and villages, were systematic attempts to erase an ancient civilization.  With the disappearance from their homeland, most of the symbols of Armenian culture—schools, monasteries, artistic monuments, historical sites—were destroyed.  The Armenian spirit, however, could not be destroyed. While our Armenian brothers and sisters lost their homes—their very lives—they were not about to surrender their most precious treasures—their language, their songs, their poetry, their dreams, their visions, their Faith, their resolve to survive.”

His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios will lead the first ever Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston commemoration of the Armenian Genocide at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of New England on April 22.

Throughout the centuries, Armenians and Greeks have shared a deep relationship. In 2008, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew visited the Armenian Holy See of Etchmiadzin and attended the Blessing of the Holy Oil together with His Holiness, Karekin the II, Catholicos of All Armenians. Together they expressed the unity of the Church.

STEPANAKERT, Artsakh— On April 12, Artsakh Prime Minister Arayik Harutyunyan partook at the opening ceremony of three buildings constructed for the families of servicemen of the Artsakh Armed Forces.

Artsakh Prime Minister Arayik Harutyunyan hands the keys and deed of a new apartment to an Artsakh serviceman (Photo: gov.nkr.am)

The head of the Executive and Minister of Defence Levon Mnatsakanyan handed the keys of flats to the families of 67 servicemen—both retired and still  in service.

Prime Minister Harutyunyan mentioned the Artsakh Government is always ready to assist in improving the housing conditions for Artsakh servicemen and their families.