By Mimi Parseghian
Convention Reporter

WALTHAM, Mass. —The Armenian Relief Society Eastern Region (ARS-ER) recently hosted its 99th convention from July 18 to July 21 at the Hilton Garden Inn. 

Opening remarks were delivered by ARS Regional Executive Chair Ani Attar and representatives from host chapters Seda Aghamianz (Cambridge “Shushi”) and Mayda Melkonian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”). 

A temporary Tivan was elected soon after. Taline Mkrtschjan (Providence “Arax”) served as Chair and Meliné Topouzian Berberian (Cambridge “Shushi”) served as Secretary on the Credential Committee. Irma Kassabian (Washington, D.C. “Satenig”), Mina Hovsepian (New York “Mayr”) and Yeran Manjikian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”) were charged with reviewing the Chapter reports, financial fulfillment and delegate eligibility.

During a presentation of the Central Executive’s quadrennial report, Silva Kouyoumdjian focused on dozens of projects in Armenia and Artsakh and updated the group on the status of international entities and chapters. Kouyoumdjian also talked about the endowment fund Vision 2020 and the Syrian relief effort. ARS Central Executive Chair Caroline Chamavonian and Advisor Sonia Akelian also attended the Eastern Region’s Convention.

At the conclusion of Kouyoumdjian’s report, the Convention recessed in preparation for the formal opening ceremonies.

Very Rev. Fr. Sahag Yemishian, ​Vicar General of the Armenian Prelacy congratulated the gathering and offered words of encouragement and praise before leading the delegates and guests in prayer. Representatives from sister organizations also offered their congratulatory remarks: Varant Chiloyan (Hamazkayin), Nareh Mkrtschjan (AYF-YOARF), Yeran Manjikian (Homenetmen) and Ani Tchaglasian (Armenian Revolutionary Federation).

On behalf of the Regional Board, Heather Krafian (Cambridge “Shushi) presented the Annual Report, which detailed the activities and projects and discussed the overall state of the organization and provided recommendations for immediate and long-term plans.  

Delegates offered their appreciation to the Board and especially to Executive Director Vartouhie Chiloyan.

The Convention elected the following to the Permanent Tivan: Chairpersons: Taline Mkrtschjan (Providence “Arax”) and Seda Aghamianz (Cambridge “Shushi”), Secretaries in the Armenian language: Reba Pilibosian (Detroit “Tzolig”) and Pauline Dostoumian (New Jersey “Shakeh”); Secretaries in the English language: Narineh Abrimian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”) and Meliné Topouzian Berberian (Cambridge “Shushi”).

Invited as Convention guests were Linda Kechejian (Cambridge “Shushi”), Nancy Ganjian (Cambridge “Shushi”), Carmen Hovsepian (Florida “Sosseh”) and Sossi Bogharian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”).

The following were selected to serve on the Nominating Committee: Ani Keshishian (New Jersey “Shakeh”), Nanor Matiossian (New Jersey “Shakeh”), Irma Kassabian (Washington “Satenig”), Lala Demirjian Attarian (Providence “Ani”) and Tamitza Dakissian (Detroit “Tzolig”).

The Correspondence Committee, whose function is to review the files and minutes of the Regional Office, included Pauline Getzoyan (Providence “Ani”), Maral Khatchadourian (Providence “Arax”) and Laura Jaffarian (Worcester “Knar”).

Elected to serve on the Auditing Committee were Mary Andonian (Florida “Sosseh”), Arpy Seferian (Chicago “Zabelle”) and Svetlana Babajanian (Fairfield County “Susan Terzian”).

The Resolutions Committee is tasked with gathering the decision and intent of the Convention for the following year’s projects and plans and present them to fellow delegates for review, revision and approval. This Committee consisted of Yn. Maggie Kouyoumdjian (New Jersey “Shakeh”), Zarouhi Suggs (Lowell “Lousintak”) and Nairi Ghazarian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”).

Then, MaryAnne Bonjuklian and Sandra Vartanian conducted an educational activity which focused on the history and structure of the ARS. Delegates enjoyed the competitive nature of this activity.

The delegates then voted to have the Regional Board study and analyze the possibilities of having a biennial convention as opposed to the current annual. In place of the formal Convention, there will be a social, cultural and educational weekend.

There was also a robust discussion on establishing a senior residential facility in southern Florida. The group decided to conduct a feasibility study. The report will be presented within a year.

The ARS also discussed the popular and successful ARS Norian Youth Program, an educational seminar for college students, which is celebrating its tenth year. The program is an extension of the ARS Summer Studies which was established in 1971. The organization will be making changes to better reflect the needs of today’s students. 

The group also discussed women’s social issues in Armenia and the Diaspora. For the next year, each Chapter will reach out to the closest women’s shelter in their area and provide support.

Educational activities generated by the Regional Board (seminars or individual Chapter presentations) are slated to continue. The ARS Essay Contest will be redesigned to make it easier for more Armenian children to participate.

AYF Camp Haiastan continues to be a recipient of major support from the Eastern Region. For the past few years, the focus has been on educational equipment and facility improvement for the Armenian classes. The ARS provided the smart board for the classroom and laptops for teachers. Per the request of Camp Haiastan’s Board of Directors, through ARS Liaison MaryAnne Bonjuklian, the Convention agreed to commit $15,000 to supply air conditioning units inside the classroom. 

Since the quadrennial ARS International Convention will be taking place this fall, a number of resolutions were directed to that assembly, including internship opportunities at the ARS Soseh Kindergarten and the ARS Mother and Child Birthing Center, which was constructed and established by the ARS Eastern Region in Gyumri to benefit victims of the 1988 earthquake.

It was also suggested that each Chapter select a historian to create an archive for future generations.

Board Treasure Maral Nakashian presented the financial report, which revealed once again a surplus. The Board will continue to focus aggressively on fundraising to cover operational costs.

Program expenses are covered by the various endowments of the ARS. Johanna Chilingirian, Board member and Chair of the ARS Eastern Region Investment Committee, presented the status of the organization’s portfolio. She explained the organization’s Investment Policy Statement which was drafted by the Board after receiving suggestions from a hired portfolio manager and the advisory committee.

The Convention concluded with the election of Regional Board members and delegates to the International Convention.  

Elected to a second two-year term was Ani Attar (Detroit “Tsolig”). Elected to serve a two-year term were Carol Jaffarian (Worcester “Knar”) and Irma Kassabian (“Washington “Satenig”). Sandra Vartanian (New York “Erebouni”), Johanna Chilingirian (Cambridge “Shushi”), Maral Nakashian (Washington “Satenig”) and Heather Krafian (Cambridge “Shushi”) will be serving the second year of their two year-term.

Delegates expressed their appreciation to MaryAnne Bonjuklian (Bergen County “Armenouhi”) and Silva Sagherian (Detroit “Tsolig”) who completed their terms. Seran Tcholakian (Detroit “Maro”) and Yeran Manjikian (Watertown “Leola Sassouni”) were elected as alternates. 

Elected to represent the Eastern Region at the International Convention were Taline Mkrtschjan (Providence “Arax”), Pauline Getzoyan (Providence “Ani”), Sandra Vartanian (New York “Erebouni”) and Mary Andonian (Florida “Sosseh”). Pauline Dostoumian (New Jersey “Shakeh”) and Talin Daghlian (New Jersey “Agnouni”) were elected as alternates.

The meeting was adjourned with discussions for next year’s Convention, the organization’s 100th.

Author information

Armenian Relief Society Eastern U.S.

The ARS Eastern USA has 32 chapters located throughout the New England, Mid-Atlantic, Midwestern, and Southeastern regions of the United States. Please contact the ARS Eastern U.S. Regional Office (arseastus@gmail.com) if you would like more information about a chapter near you.

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The Armenian scholarly community is grieving the loss of renowned genocide researcher and author Vahakn Dadrian, who passed away on August 2, 2019. He was 93 years old.  

Vahakn Norair Dadrian was born on May 26, 1926 in Istanbul, Turkey. “Vahakn Dadrian was born ten years after the Armenian Genocide,” noted Armenian President Armen Sarkissian in his condolence letter to the Dadrian family. “It is, probably, no accident that he dedicated the major part of his life to genocide and especially the Armenian Genocide studies, making a great contribution to the internalization and the fight against denial of the Genocide through his valuable monographies and publications,” wrote Sarkissian.

Over the course of his lifetime, Dadrian achieved degrees in mathematics, philosophy, international law and sociology, studying at the University of Berlin, University of Vienna, University of Zurich and University of Chicago, respectively. His interdisciplinary background coupled with his impressive mastery of six languages (Armenian, English, French, German, Turkish and Ottoman Turkish) supported his expertise of comparative genocide studies.

A Director of Genocide Research at the Zoryan Institute, Dadrian was known for his voluminous writings on the Armenian Genocide including his 1995 work, The History of the Armenian Genocide: Ethnic Conflict from the Balkans to Anatolia to the Caucasus. Istanbul-Armenian member of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Garo Paylan tweeted in Armenian and Turkish that Dadrian’s book “played an important role in the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide.”

In 2011, he co-authored Judgment at Istanbul: The Armenian Genocide Trials with Clark University professor and historian Taner Akçam. In his somber reflection on Facebook, Akçam recalled his formal remarks during a 2005 event in New York City honoring his late friend and invaluable, lifelong mentor. “There is no doubt that whatever discussion we’ll have [in Armenian Genocide research field], it will be built on the body of knowledge that Dadrian has provided for us,” expressed Akçam.

There has been an outpouring of support and sympathy from admirers and fellow scholars since Dadrian’s passing. He was a true trailblazer. “More than anyone else at the time, Dadrian raised the study of the Armenian Genocide to the academic level, and everyone who has come after him is indebted to his work—even those who disagree with him,” said Marc Mamigonian, National Association of Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) Director of Academic Affairs. “When we look at the remarkable development of Armenian Genocide scholarship in the past two decades, it must be understood that this was made possible by the foundation created by Dadrian’s groundbreaking work.” 

As Akçam put it, this “is a big loss for Armenians and humanity.” Arguably the most influential authority figure in Armenian Genocide research, Dadrian was “the master of us all whose hearts beat for justice and humanity.”

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Bari Mama is a non-profit organization which supports disabled, underprivileged and abandoned children and their mothers. The following is an interview between co-founder Marina Adulyan and Weekly contributor Hovsep Daghdigian. 

Hovsep Daghdigian: Please tell us about yourself and share some insight into Bari Mama. 

Marina Adulyan: Bari Mama was launched in 2014 initially as an informal online network of mothers and established itself as a non-profit in 2015, founded by Marine Adulyan, a professor of Greek Studies of YSU, and Inessa Muradyan, Governance Programs and Business Development Manager at the British Council. This was triggered by a case of a newborn abandoned by his biological family due to a physical disability (three missing limbs). Support was immediately provided to the newborn, and work initiated with the family. Similar cases were discovered in due course (one to two cases weekly on average), and the need for a support organization was identified. The first baby with the missing limbs was returned to its biological family within a year. Since then, over 100 children have been either reunited with their families or prevented from entry into an institution.

H.D.: Please describe some of Bari Mama’s programs.

M.A.: Bari Doon (Bari Tnak) started in 2015 as an inclusive children’s daycare facility providing development and entertainment programs both for children with disabilities and for other children who attended in return for a donation. There were various events including crafts, theatre performances and competitions. Proceeds from the donations went to the NGO’s main mission of providing psychological, medical and material support to the families of children with disabilities who faced the risk of being abandoned. 

Another successful activity of Bari Tnak is Santa House, an annual Christmas project run on the premises of Bari Tnak. It features an elves factory for crafting ornaments and handmade presents, a Santa’s workshop, etc. 

During the past three years Bari Tnak faced a number of challenges which needed to be addressed. Our maintenance and overhead costs were too high, mostly due to rent. Because we were dependent on using the premises of our partners, we had to change locations frequently. We needed more space for therapies and had to rely on our partners for facilities again. 

It became clear that in many cases mothers want to keep their children, however they are pressured by the families (husbands, in-laws, etc), and due to financial dependency have no way of staying with their children. Space was not available to cater for the needs of mothers with newborn children, who often needed special equipment, furniture or medical intervention.  

Thus the idea of building our own Bari Tnak multi-functional facility was developed. This is a complex of two buildings located in the town of Jrvezh. One building is primarily for the mothers of children with disabilities. The second building is for older children with disabilities who are leaving the orphanages and need a place to live. 

Land for the Bari Tnak facility was bought for us by a local para-diplomacy NGO. The first building was built through a social enterprise support project funded by AGBU and the EU. Also other private donations, in kind contributions from sponsors, donations from construction companies, as well as fundraising campaigns funded the project. 

Construction of the second building has started with the funds raised by Serj and Angela Tankians. However a significant amount is still required to complete the building. 

Bari Tnak is a social enterprise, which intends to use several commercial components to support its sustainability as a social initiative. The social components include shelters for mothers who feel pressure or experience violence from their families for attempting to keep their children with disabilities. Shelters provide therapy, free rehabilitation services and psychological support for parents and children. Various social programs for the sustainability of these parents/families includes vocational training and work placement within Bari Tnak or with corporate sponsors.

Shelter for those over 18 years of age who are leaving orphanages and have no place to go is provided. There is a long waiting list for government-provided social housing. Orphanage graduates are offered vocational training to enable them to find work and become self-sufficient. A work placement program helps provide work at the Bari Tnak cafe/souvenir shop and provides work referrals to partners/sponsors. 

Our commercial fundraising components of activities include providing rental facilities for social gatherings and corporate events. The second building which is currently under construction will feature a café, craft production facilities and a souvenir gift shop. 

Currently women find out about us through word of mouth or through those doctors/nurses who informally cooperate with us. 

At the moment there are four mothers with children with disabilities like Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy housed in Bari Tnak. This number will grow once the formal project with the Ministry of Health is launched and information is officially provided to parents and families of children with disabilities.  

The government was always supportive of our activities and efforts but didn’t provide any other support. Recently, however, we signed an MOU with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social and Labor Issues, as well as with UNICEF in order to formalize our services and support, as well as to provide training to medical personnel and to introduce a psychological support facility in the postnatal departments.  

The staff of Bari Mama serves mostly on a voluntary basis. The only paid staff members are the therapists and project coordinators, hired temporarily through specific partner funded projects

H.D.: Tell us about the program which takes children on a vacation to Lake Sevan.

M.A.: Bari Amar Camp is another annual project that Bari Mama has been implementing during the last three years. Every summer we take children with disabilities from the orphanages, as well as other underprivileged children who are beneficiaries of our partner institutions, on an inclusive camping holiday near Lake Sevan. The locations of our partners were used. Then the Ministry of Environmental Protection granted us a private shoreline at Lake Sevan where we are currently trying to establish facilities for a convenient, accessible and secure camping site. 

The camp has been a great opportunity for taking the children out of their gloomy routine at the orphanage where, due to mobility restraints. Some of them don’t even have a chance of going for a walk outside the building. For some children who have parents but still reside in the orphanage, mostly due to economic issues, it has been a good bonding exercise, resulting in some cases in the reunification of families with the establishment of some support mechanisms. 

The children are seven to 18 years old. They are usually accompanied by their institutional representatives, or sometimes their parents. Our volunteers and therapists also work with the children throughout their stay. Normally each group visits the camp for seven to 10 days, and we run two or three groups every year depending on the funds raised and the weather conditions. 

Currently we are building a container house, which we raised funds for through a local sponsor, the Chronimet Mining Company. In the meantime, children are staying in tents and sleeping bags which is an inconvenient solution for the cold and windy Sevan nights. Ideally we are looking to build a more comfortable site with fixed housing and basic conveniences. These could also be rented for a fee by tourists during times when there are no children there. This would serve as an additional source of funding for the NGO and for the camp’s sustainability. 

J.D.: How can Diasporan Armenians help?

M.A.: They can donate clothes, food or money via Paypal: meripoghosyan@gmail.com or contact us at http://barimama.org/am/ or on Facebook. Every dollar counts.

J.D.: What personal message would you like to tell the Diaspora?

M.A.: Join us and help close all the orphanages. Let children stay with their families.

Author information

Hovsep Daghdigian

Joseph “Hovsep” Daghdigian is originally from Lowell, MA. His grandparents were from Kharpet in Western Armenia. He is active in the Merrimack Valley community and a former chairman of the AYF CE. Dagdigian is a retired electrical and software engineer with a MS in computer engineering. Dagdigian spends three to five months per year in Armenia and Artsakh exploring sites with his friend Vova Tshagharyan. His adventures are described in his “Unseen Armenia” series of articles. He, with Anahid Yeremian, co-founded the Support Committee for Armenia’s Cosmic Ray Division (SCACRD) in 2000 to support the scientists and students at the Cosmic Ray Division of the Yerevan Physics Institute (now the A. Alikhanyan National Laboratory). He lives in Harvard, MA with his wife Lisa.

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By Lucine Poturyan
ANCA Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellowship 2019
Wesleyan University – Class of 2020

Only three days into my time in Washington, DC with the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), and I experienced a whirlwind of activity that was fit to last me the whole summer. That eventful start set the tone for a productive and engaging summer in the hotbed of American politics, hosted by a dedicated organization fired up to mobilize its Armenian-American youth.

Let me begin by saying that I’m honored to be the inaugural Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellow. Her dedication to the Armenian cause inspired me in my work here with the ANCA in ways I wouldn’t realize until I completed the program. But, I’ll get back to this.

The first day of this internship was marked by a workday-long crash course on the Armenian issues being voted on in Congress during this week. Be alert: if you’re sitting in your chair trying to rub the jet-lagged sleep out of your eyes, the ANCA staff are the abrupt awakening you didn’t know you needed: we’re going to Capitol Hill tomorrow.

That’s right. On just the second day of the internship, my ANCA Leo Sarkisian Summer Internship teammates and I found ourselves navigating the halls of the Rayburn, Longworth and Cannon office buildings, pitching for the House of Representatives’ support for our foreign aid amendments granting $40 million to Armenia to aid with democracy development and $1.5 million in demining and rehabilitation aid to Artsakh. After spending the day visiting 439 congressional offices, we retired to the ANCA headquarters to watch the results of our efforts in real-time, over pizza. The air in the room was steeped in anticipation, hope and exhaustion. We had barely gotten to know each other, let alone get settled into the city when we were exclaiming and hugging in sheer joy: we’d come together to a complicated city new to us and made a tangible change on our second day.

The thrill of the internship didn’t stop there. I was excited to learn that the delegation of interns from California would be sitting in on a meeting with the ANCA staff and Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). I remember asking myself, a newcomer to this tempestuous city, if any of these events were happening in my conscious state. We had the opportunity to sit down with the Senator and speak to her about garnering senatorial support for Armenia and Artsakh related priorities. At the end of the meeting, Senator Feinstein requested for the women in the group to sit in the front for our photograph, female powerhouses flanking her. As I left her office, I didn’t think the day could get better.

Then the midday humidity welcomed itself to the city. However, Washington’s humid streets didn’t stop the women in our office from attending Politico’s Third Annual Salute to the Female Chiefs of Staff in the Capitol building. Listening to the advice of these women was inspiring for me both personally and professionally, and while I was still taking in the experience of that event, our tenacious Governmental Affairs director Tereza Yerimyan led us on our way to another event that night. As we were walking out of the Capitol, we did a double take upon seeing Speaker Nancy Pelosi walking through the Capitol with her entourage and headed right on over for a quick chat about the Armenian Genocide resolution.

And that was just the first week. I will let the rest of the ANCA Leo Sarkisian team discuss the other seven weeks, but in short, it included work on passing four pro-Armenian amendments, constant meetings with members of Congress, grassroots mobilization calls to Armenian Americans across the U.S., meetings with current and former Ambassadors, career exploration lectures, extracurricular expeditions around the capital city’s museums, ice cream socials and a truckload of excitement and passion on the road to #HaiTahd.

All of which brings me back to Maral Melkonian Avetisyan. When I started this program, I was handed a poem— When I Wake Up —that Maral had written back when she was 13 years old. She wrote about starting each day committed to fighting for a brighter future for Armenia and its children. And, with her inspiration and the ANCA’s guidance, that’s just what we did during this internship – and what I hope to continue moving forward.

Author information

ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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FRANKLIN, Mass.—Camp Haiastan celebrated another milestone in its celebrated history on Sunday.

Three buildings underwent significant transformations during the off season in preparation for the 2019 camping season. After completing the new shower bathroom building two years ago thanks to the generosity of Dikran and Maro Megeurditchian, the old shower building and the old bathrooms sat idly. Never to rest on his laurels, Executive Director David Hamparian began to fundraise and solidify plans to renovate and repurpose these buildings. With the assistance of the newly-formed infrastructure committee, it was decided to make one building a new arts and crafts facility and the other a staff lounge combined with a new laundry facility.

Previous benefactors Nancy Guzelian and Arthur Bedrosian agreed to fund the projects donating $100,000 and $64,000 respectively. The new laundry expanded capacity to 10 new high efficiency washers and dryers. The staff lounge is separated from the laundry by a locking door allowing parents to do laundry on Sundays. The staff lounge allows space for the staff to rest, have late night snacks or chat with family and friends in a private atmosphere—a great improvement over the couch in the back of the mess hall. Both facilities have been heavily utilized this summer adding value to the staff, camper and parent experience.

The “upper shed” was formerly the bathroom building utilized by families renting the summer cabins surrounding the conference room at the top of the hill near the entrance. The facility had most recently been used to house the camp’s utility vehicles and building materials. In danger of collapsing, Anita Babikian was contacted and asked what we needed. No stranger to significant donations to Camp Haiastan, she agreed to save the building with her generosity.

The building was fortified; desperate for additional storage space for camp records, the attic was supported to double as a secure storage area avoiding the expense of a new building. Babikian was impressed with the camp’s creativity and resourcefulness and agreed to add to her donation to complete the renovation.

At the ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, accompanied by six members of the clergy, blessed the buildings during the ceremony conducted by former Board of Directors member and master of ceremonies Michael Bahtiarian. His powerful prayers and inspiring words set the tone for the day.

Board of Directors Chairman Michael Guzelian spoke to the history of aunt Nancy Guzelian’s lifelong commitment to Camp Haiastan and many other Armenian organizations. The building was dedicated to her mother Makrouhi Guzelian. The Guzelian family has been among the camp’s staunchest supporters in all facets for three generations.

Longtime Board of Directors member and current treasurer Steve Mesrobian spoke on behalf of the ARF and the impact of these donations.

Outgoing Armenian Relief Society (ARS) representative MaryAnne Bonjuklian reflected on the strong relationship with Camp Haiastan and the organization’s current pledge to make the Armenian school program stronger by adding air conditioning to the stifling hot Fermanian Recreation Hall where classes and lectures are held. This upgrade is scheduled to be completed before the start of the 2020 camping season.

Arthur Bedrosian told the entertaining story of how he had not enjoyed his camper experience but recognized the powerful impact Camp Haiastan has had on his cousin Rita Simonian and the Simonian, Bahtiarian and Bedrosian families. His donation was made in her honor. She in turn dedicated the building to Genocide survivor Hayganush Bahtiarian.

Outgoing Executive Director David Hamparian reflected on all the assistance he has received over the years, identifying the day’s true heroes, Nancy Guzelian, Arthur Bedrosian and Anita Babikian. He challenged all those in attendance to value all the friendships made, all the obstacles overcome, all lessons learned and to be respectful to each other. He asked the campers and staff in attendance to strive to be the people we were honoring today, that maybe someday we will be honoring their commitment to Camp Haiastan.

Author information

David Hamparian

David Hamparian is the Executive Director of AYF Camp Haiastan.

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BOSTON, Mass.—Many who work and live nearby and beyond visit Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway, Boston often. They walk the labyrinth daily or enjoy quiet moments on a bench. Visitors also marvel at the Abstract Sculpture’s annual configuration, its newest, dramatic sculptural shape and read the inscription on the Reflecting Pool upon which the Abstract Sculpture sits.

Summer programs at the Park are ideal for all ages. Upcoming events include Under the August Moon on Thursday, August 22 at 7:30pm, which promises to be a highlight again this summer. Graciously hosted by anoush’ella co-owners, Chef Nina and Raffi Festekjian, also benefactors of the Park, this delightful evening under the August moonlight showcases their signature dishes. The moonlit evening also features an All-Star Jazz Trio, courtesy of the Berklee College of Music. RSVP is appreciated. Please email hello(at)ArmenianHeritagePark.org. 

Another summer favorite is Tea & Tranquility. It’s happening Wednesday, August 14 from 4:30 to 6:00pm. Many enjoy the monthly program to meet and greet, enjoy iced teas and desserts, walk the labyrinth and get to know one another. RSVP is appreciated. Please email hello(at)ArmenianHeritagePark(dot)com 

Celebrating What Unites Us is the next innovative, monthly program to highlight the immigrant experience and build community and cross-cultural understanding. It starts this week. Each month’s program highlights the country of origin of many residents living in the city of Boston and the Commonwealth. The August program sheds light on Somalia and the immigrant experience of Somalians. The program, in two parts, begins at the Park with a community leader sharing his/her immigrant experience. Visitors are then invited to walk the labyrinth, which is symbolic of life’s journey and for many, an introduction to walking meditation. Then, all walk to The KITCHEN at the Boston Public Market where a chef demonstrates a signature dish for all to enjoy for lunch. The program is a collaboration of the City of Boston Office of Health and Human Services, Boston Strong Commission, Age-Friendly Boston, The Kitchen at Boston Public Market and Friends of Heritage Park; it’s funded by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. July’s highly received program highlighted Ireland with the Consul General of Ireland, Laoise Moore, Irish International Immigrant Center Executive Director Ronnie Millar and Ann Marie Byrne, Irish Outreach Coordinator, sharing their experiences.

Exciting planning is also underway for Celebrating the Contributions of Our Nation’s Immigrants, a gala benefit on Wednesday, September 18 at the InterContinental Hotel, Boston. Funds raised will support the Park’s Endowed Fund for Care and Maintenance to ensure that our Park is impeccably cared for and maintained year-round. A distinguished group of philanthropic and corporate and community leaders are attending the gala honoring Dr. Noubar Afeyan, founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering. The benefit shines a light on the Park and Dr. Afeyan’s outstanding leadership and philanthropy. At Dr. Afeyan’s suggestion, organizations serving immigrants and refugees will be recognized during the evening. Advance reservations are required. To receive an invitation, please email hello(at)ArmenianHeritage(dot)com with your mailing address.

Programs at the Park are planned by an exceptional team: Armine Afeyan, Kristin Asadourian, Jason Behrens, Alexis Demirjan, Susan Deranian, Tom Dow, Manneh Ghazarians, Carol Ishkanian, Martha Mensoian, Catherine Minassian, Dr. Armineh Mirzabegian, Tsoleen Sarian, Barbara Tellalian, Chiara Megighian Zenati, Arlette Yegumians, Ann Zacaria  and Zareh Zurabyan. There are many others joining the team planning specific programs and initiatives. Moreover, the commitment and dedication of many volunteers involved in implementing these programs add immeasurably to the program’s success as do all who join us.

Programs are listed on the Park’s website, ArmenianHeritagePark.org. To receive e-news and announcements, please email hello(at)ArmenianHeritagePark(dot)org

This article is a press release submitted to the Armenian Weekly and has been published to our community news section as a courtesy. If your organization has news it would like to submit to the paper for consideration, please email us at editor@armenianweekly.com. Please note that this service is reserved for organizations that engage in not-for-profit or humanitarian work in the Armenian community. Publication is not guaranteed.

Author information

Guest Contributor

Guest contributions to the Armenian Weekly are informative articles written and submitted by members of the community, which make up our community bulletin board.

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WASHINGTON, DC–Congressional opposition to the Trump administration attempts to cut U.S. aid for the Artsakh de-mining continues to grow with 22 Senators from 16 states representing 143 million Americans today joining 89 U.S. Representatives who, earlier this week, co-signed a letter defending this life-saving program, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

The Senate letter, spearheaded by Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ)–the Ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee–encourages USAID Administrator Mark Green to reverse course and continue U.S. funding for the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) de-mining program. Administrator Green testified before the Foreign Affairs Committee on April 9 of this year that USAID was committed to completing the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnances within the traditional boundaries of Nagorno-Karabakh.

“This type of humanitarian assistance to support the victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has long been recognized as important and I believe it remains critical that we continue to support demining efforts in the region,” said Senator Menendez. “As we made clear in our letter, any changes to USAID’s commitment to complete the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnances saving lives in Nagorno-Karabakh will be met with broad opposition in Congress.”

“The powerful response by Senators and Representatives to the Administration’s ill-advised attempt to cut U.S. aid to Artsakh demonstrates the broad-based support enjoyed by this life-saving humanitarian program,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “We thank Senator Menendez for his principled leadership and all the Senators – representing 143 million Americans – who, on short notice, during a Congressional recess, took a stand for this investment in peace.”

The letter cites the Senate’s consistent bipartisan support for Artsakh assistance, referencing report language in the Fiscal year 2016, 2017 and 2018 foreign aid bills.  “Given the unknown amount of landmines and unexploded ordnance jeopardizing lives in Nagorno-Karabakh, continuing to fund humanitarian landmine clearance programs is critical,” stated the Senators in the letter.  The Senators concluded citing USAID’s own assertion that U.S. funding for de-mining “made the region undoubtedly safer,” and asserted: “Clearance work remains to be done and the people of Nagorno-Karabakh cannot afford to have that work ended or disrupted by a lack of funds. We strongly urge USAID to reconsider its decision to end funding for humanitarian landmine clearance in Nagorno-Karabakh at the end of the year.”

U.S. Senate and House members received thousands of letters and calls from constituents through the ANCA Rapid Responder system and March to Justice platforms in support of continued aid to Artsakh, with the ANCA Leo Sarkisian and Maral Melkonian Avetisyan summer fellows meeting with legislators and hundreds of Capitol Hill staffers in support of the initiative.

The Senators joining Senator Menendez in co-signing the letter to USAID Administrator Mark Green are Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), 2020 Presidential Candidates Michael Bennet (D-CO), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Bernard Sanders (I-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Robert Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

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ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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By Daron Pogharian
ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship – 2019
Merrimack College – Class of 2020

When most people think of an internship, they think of something like “Come in, do your work, leave, have a nice line-item for your resume.” The Leo Sarkisian Internship couldn’t be any further from that. This has been an experience like no other.

Our first weekend in DC, we went down to Richmond, Virginia to attend the local ANC picnic. I’d never been that far south before, let alone to an Armenian event there. We had the opportunity to meet and interact with the wonderful members of that community who were nothing but welcoming. While registering ANCA Rapid Responders, I met Linda. After chatting for just a bit, we found out that both of our families came from Dikranagerd, and both settled in Union City, NJ upon arriving in America, just a few blocks apart! She had wonderful stories about what it was like growing up in that community that were so fresh – from how they searched for relatives from the Yergir, to supporting new families when they arrived on American shores. 

ANC Richmond stalwart Bedros Bandazian also provided us with valuable insight on how such a small community has managed to not only survive, but thrive. With only one Armenian church in the Richmond area, the community does not experience the denominational fractioning present in other East Coast communities: that is, because there isn’t a choice. This makes their community quite unique, and much more intimate. The lone event we attended introduced us to much of the Richmond Armenian community. When a community is determined to survive and has people dedicated enough to guide it, it will.

As an international relations major, this internship program has helped me advance my career in ways I never expected. We’re provided so many opportunities for networking and self-betterment, and plenty of assistance to help capitalize on that. Our first week in the program, we attended a networking event hosted by Nahigian Strategies – led by top political consultants Keith and Ken – bringing together everyone from CEOs to leaders of various federal agencies. Another day, when we were on Capitol Hill, I had the opportunity not only to meet but to speak with members of Congress about our issues. Later that day, I had the chance to do the same thing, but this time with Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) while we were in line at Dunkin Donuts.

The Leo Sarkisian Internship has also provided me with the opportunity to explore our country’s capital in ways I hadn’t even dreamed of. I’d always seen that beautiful white dome on the skyline, but I never thought I’d walk into the Capitol Rotunda and hear the singing of “Der Voghormia” as part of a historic ecumenical prayer service in the languages of Middle East Christians. I also never thought that in my first week I would enter hundreds of House offices, advocating Hai Tahd priorities through the halls of Rayburn and Longworth. Actually going and interacting with Congressional leaders and staff who decide this country’s laws and convincing them to support our cause, was a great feeling that truly set the tone for this summer. 

Author information

ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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They say, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” I have to admit that’s true. For the past five years, I have visited Armenia at least once every year for various reasons. This summer, I decided to pursue my education here in Boston, which consequently meant that I would not be able to travel to Armenia. It was a hard decision, but everyday is just one day closer to landing at Zvartnots. 

I miss my friends. I miss Camp Javakhk. I miss AYF Youth Corps. I miss the village life. I miss sitting on top of Cascade until the crack of dawn, singing at the top of my lungs, ordering homemade bottles of wine from someone’s neighbor’s brother’s uncle’s cousin’s son. I even miss waking up sweating in 100 degree heat at the mercy of a broken air conditioner. I miss waking up and grabbing that bottle of Byuregh I put in the fridge at 4:00 A.M. before going to sleep. I miss sitting at Meghedy cafe in Opera and watching my beautiful country change for the better, right before my eyes. How I long for those days…

What I miss most of all is my people, the streets, the sights, the drives. I can still smell the mixture of cigarettes and perfume while walking down Abovyan Street. I can picture the children, our future leaders, running around freely, many of them working hard to earn money for their families. I hear their giggles, too. I even feel the bumpy ride to Artsakh. That feeling of finally getting to Stepanakert’s Hrabarag. I hear the Zontikner waterfall. I can imagine the feeling of contentedness at Saro’s House – the one with no address, barely a road to get to, but everyone knows Saro’s House. We’re in Shushi after all… if only. The never-ending genatses, the khorovadz, the pig fat and potatoes. Those nights really make you appreciate being who we are. Armenians, through and through. Our traditions are really unlike anyone else’s. Our language, our history, our culture, our songs, … I wouldn’t even know where to begin. 

And those Yerevan nights. We don’t appreciate walking down streets enough. I realize this now. I love that feeling of walking with no destination. That happens a lot in Yerevan. It’s not really about where you’re going. It’s about appreciating where you are in that moment. It’s overwhelming, really.

I see posts on social media and envy people for all of the fun they are having. All of the incredible food they’re eating. I recently told a friend who is in Armenia now, ‘I don’t wish this feeling upon anyone.’ It’s like a pit in your stomach sort of feeling. The type of feeling you get as a kid when you don’t get your favorite colored popsicle, but someone else does. Maybe that was just me. The work we do here in the diaspora keeps us going and reminds us of what we have there. Regardless, it’s still difficult being so far away from a place where you feel so at home. A place where you can truly call home. I think this summer without Hayastan made me realize that I… WE…can never take her for granted. I know I’m not the only one with all of these feelings, with all of this longing and love for her. What I know to be even more true, is that our country will thrive so long as we take care of her, love her and fight for her forever.

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Ani Khachatourian

Ani Khachatourian is a member of the Armenian Youth Federation – Youth Organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (AYF-YOARF) Greater Boston “Nejdeh” chapter. She is an Emerson College graduate student, and she works in Special Education.

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CANNES, France—One thousand choristers paid tribute to French Armenian performer and international icon Charles Aznavour with concerts on the French Riviera on August 9 and 10.

The choristers, known as “Les 1000 choristes,” accompanied by an orchestra and several soloists, performed more than two dozen Aznavour songs to an audience of thousands that filled the Palais des Victioires in Cannes during a two-day concert.

The repertoire included beloved classics such as La bohème, Emmenez-moi, Comme ils disent, Ave Maria, La mamma, Je voyage, Les bateaux sont partis, Pour faire une jam, Les comédiens, Sur ma vie, Je m’voyais déjà, Il faut savoir, Hier encore, and Mourir d’aimer.

The tribute to Aznavour also included two Armenian-themed songs: Ils sont tombés, dedicated to the Armenian Genocide and Pour toi Arménie, which Aznavour composed and performed alongside dozens of French stars after the Spitak Earthquake in Armenia in 1988. The choristers, clad in red, blue and orange scarves, performed the latter twice, forming a powerful visual that resembled the Armenian flag. 

The soloists included French up and coming stars Jenifer and Michaël Gregorio. Jenifer’s performance of La bohème with the choristers was one of the highlights of the program. Before he performed “Comme ils dissent,” Gregorio, in turn, emphasized how Aznavour was way ahead of his time when he released in 1972 what is considered to be one of the most seminal songs about homosexuality ever written.

Aznavour passed away in October 2018 at the age of 94. In a rather moving tribute during a state funeral, French President Emmanuel Macron said, “In France, poets never die.” In May, a memorial plaque was placed on the building on Monsieur le Prince Street in the Latin Quarter of Paris where Aznavour grew up.

Aznavour composed and performed more than a thousand songs and sold 180 million records worldwide during his legendary career that spanned eight decades.

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In the midst of constructing its new state-of-the-art headquarters in Belmont, MA, the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) has also expanded its programs and scholar support worldwide with an unprecedented level of activity in the first half of 2019.

Unprecedented Number of Programs

To date, in 2019, NAASR has sponsored or co-sponsored 38 programs on a wide variety of subjects and in many locations, the most in its history for a six-month period. These events have taken place in Massachusetts, California, New York, New Jersey, Washington, D.C., Maryland and, for the first time ever, with the AGBU Cairo in Heliopolis, Egypt. The programs have touched on numerous aspects of Armenian history and culture and included several NAASR/Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Lectures on Contemporary Armenian Issues.

Among these programs were co-sponsorships of four major conferences: “Armeno-Iranica: A Shared History,” at UCLA and UC Irvine; the 17th Annual Graduate Student Colloquium in Armenian Studies, at UCLA; “Entangled Encounters: Antiquity and Modernity in Armenian Studies,” at Harvard University; and the 2nd Feminist Armenian Studies Workshop: Gendering Resistance and Revolution, at the University of California, Irvine. NAASR also supported the screening of Armenian films at the 2019 Socially Relevant Film Festival in New York City and partnered with the Columbia University Armenian Center and other groups to present a series of lectures.

In keeping with its tradition of collaboration, NAASR works with many Armenian organizations, including frequent co-sponsorships with the Ararat-Eskijian Museum in California and St. Leon Armenian Church in New Jersey, as well as academic and other institutions such as Harvard, Tufts, Columbia, Georgetown, UCLA, and UC Irvine, as well as the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.

A full listing of NAASR programs for 2019 is available online.

NAASR and Knights of Vartan Issue Scholar Grants

During this time, NAASR received its largest ever number of grant requests from scholars around the world, and on its own and in collaboration with the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies with which it has partnered since 2007, increased its scholar grants, issuing 19 from January to June of 2019 to the following scholars:

2019 Grant Recipients

Dr. Taner Akçam, Kaloosdian-Mugar Professor of Armenian Genocide Studies, Clark University, Worcester, MA, grant to conduct archival in Ottoman, German, British and American archives for new research project on Cemal Pasha and his role during Armenian Genocide. Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Tigran Aleksanyan, archaeologist, Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences, Republic of Armenia, support for project to document monuments preserved in the Republic of Armenia and Artsakh associated with the memory of Vardanants’ martyrs. Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Dr. Anahit Avagyan, Senior Researcher, Department of Researching and Editing of the Ancient Armenian Texts, Mashtots Matenadaran–Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, Yerevan, travel grant to present paper “Armenian Translation of the Pseudo-Athanasian Dialogue ‘Quaestiones ad Antiochum ducem’ (CPG 2257): Some Preliminary Remarks on its Possible Critical Edition,” at the 18th International Conference on Patristic Studies in August 19 to 24, 2019 at Oxford. Grant issued by NAASR.

Anoush Baghdassarian, MA student at Columbia University, New York City, travel grant to go to Armenia to conduct research for thesis on the attitudes of Syrian-Armenian refugees in Armenia toward efforts of redress and transitional justice in post-conflict Syria. Grant issued by NAASR.

Dmytro Dymydyuk, PhD candidate in History, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (Ukraine), travel grant request to take part in the conference “Military Campaigns, Weaponry, and Military Equipment (Antiquity and Middle ages),” May 16 to 18, 2019 in Varna, Bulgaria, to present paper “One-Edged and Curved Blade in Bagratid Armenia (late 9th-mid 11th c.): Problem of Interpretation of Sources.” Grant issued by NAASR.

Khoren Grigoryan, PhD student, Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography, National Academy of Sciences, Republic of Armenia, travel grant to participate in 16th Annual Graduate Student Colloquium in Armenian Studies at UCLA, February 2, 2019, presenting paper “Transforming Identity after 1915: Case of Musa Dagh.” Grant issued by NAASR.

Julia Hintlian, PhD student in Religion, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, travel grant to present paper at the XVIII International Conference on Patristic Studies at the University of Oxford, August 19-24, 2019, presenting paper “Metz Mayr Miriam: The Embellished Armenian Lineage of Marutha of Maipherkat.” Grant issued by NAASR.

Vahe Hovsepyan, PhD student in Department of History, Yerevan State University, travel grant to conduct research in the St. Petersburg Russian State Historic Archive for dissertation on “Eastern Armenia in Caucasian Viceroyalty (1844-1882).” Grant issued by NAASR.

Carla Kekejian, PhD student in Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, travel grant to support participation in “Entangled Encounters” Armenian Studies Conference at Harvard University, March 28 to 29, 2019 to present paper “Harsneren: “Language of the Armenian Bride.” Grant issued by NAASR.

Hratch Kestenian, PhD candidate in History at the Graduate Center, City University of New York, travel grant to consult the Ottoman archives housed at the Başbakanlık and archives of Surp Prgich (Holy Savior) hospital in Istanbul for doctoral research for thesis entitled “The Making of a Social Disease: Tuberculosis and the Medicalization of Ottoman Society (1827-1922).” Grant issued by NAASR.

Dr. Umit Kurt, Polonsky Postdoctoral Fellow, The Van Leer Institute, Jerusalem, publication grant to support editorial work on English translation of his book Antep 1915: Soykirim ve Failler for publication by Palgrave. Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Marco Marsili, PhD student in Studies of Security and Defense from the ISCTE–Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTEIUL), travel grant to conduct fieldwork in Armenia and Karabakh in fall 2019 for thesis on Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Pauline Mari Pechakjian, MA student, Department of History, University of California, Irvine, travel grant to support research in Armenia for thesis “Rethinking ‘Repatriation’: A Social History of the Mass Migration of Diaspora Armenians to Soviet Armenia, 1946-49.” Grant issued by NAASR.

Amine Alkan Reis, PhD student, Fakultät VI Planen, Bauen, Umwelt of Technische Universitaet, Berlin, support for travel and fieldwork for thesis, “A Model Proposal for a Holistic Approach to the Conservation of Evacuated Rural Settlements in the North Eastern Anatolia’s Armenian Heritage: Case Study of Aprank (St. David) Monastery and Üçpınar (Aprank) Village.” Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Anoush Sargsyan, PhD candidate and Junior Researcher, Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts—Matenadaran, Yerevan, travel grant to attend conference “The Surrounding Forest: Trees in the Medieval Imaginary,” organized by the Department of English and Humanities School of Arts, Birkbeck, University of London, June 22, 2019, to present paper “Genealogical Tree of Christ in the Context of the Armenian Version of Peter’s Compendium in Historiae Genealogia Christi.” Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Henry Shapiro, Van Leer Institute, Fellow at the Polonsky Academy for Advanced Study Jerusalem, and Visiting Researcher at the Faculty for Humanities, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, travel grant to visit Istanbul to access materials on Eremia Chelebi for transformation of thesis “The Great Armenian Flight: The Celali Revolts and the Rise of Western Armenian Society” into book. Grant issued by NAASR.

Dr. Abraham Terian, retired Professor of Armenian Patristics and Academic Dean at St. Nersess Armenian Seminary, New Rochelle, NY, grant to support preparation of The Life of Mashtots‘ by His Disciple Koriwn, with an introduction, translation and commentary. Grant issued by the Knights of Vartan Fund for Armenian Studies.

Dr. Daria Vorobyeva, travel grant to expand PhD thesis “Forced Ethnic Migrants’ Integration: Syrian Armenians in Armenia and Lebanon (2011-2016),” completed at University of St. Andrews, Scotland (2018), leading to a book and an article publications. Grant issued by NAASR.

Ani Yenokyan, PhD student, Armenian State Academy of Fine Arts, and junior researcher at the department of Art History and Writing Center of Research, Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts –Matenadaran, Yerevan, travel grant to participate in 16th Annual Graduate Student Colloquium in Armenian Studies at UCLA, February 2, 2018, presenting paper “The Illustrations of Armenian Printed Books in the Context of Early Modern Armenian Culture (16th-18th Centuries).” Grant issued by NAASR.

Grant Deadlines and Academic Committee

All relevant grant proposals are reviewed four times per year (March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15) by NAASR’s Director of Academic Affairs Marc A. Mamigonian and the NAASR Academic Advisory Committee, currently consisting of Prof. Kevork Bardakjian, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Prof. Valentina Calzolari, University of Geneva; Prof. Michael J. Connolly, Boston College; Prof. Bedross Der Matossian, University of Nebraska; and Prof. Christina Maranci, Tufts University. In January 2019 Prof. Dennis Papazian (University of Michigan, Dearborn) and Prof. James R. Russell (Harvard University) stepped down from the committee after many years of dedicated service.

For more information contact NAASR at hq@naasr.org.

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NAASR

The National Association for Armenian Studies and Research was launched in March 1955 with a vision to promote Armenian Studies by establishing endowed chairs at some of the foremost universities in the United States.

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WASHINGTON, DC—The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is renewing its call on U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo to support a new Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) grant that would empower Armenia’s youth through a $140 million Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) education program for the country’s public schools.

In a letter sent today to Secretary Pompeo, who chairs the MCC Board of Directors, ANCA Chairman Raffi Hamparian asked the Secretary of State to review a financial analysis conducted by the World Bank that classified Armenia as an “upper middle income” country. “This highly contentious determination – made in the face of the vast and persistent poverty outside of Yerevan and across the Armenian countryside – makes Armenia ineligible for MCC grants,” explained Hamparian.

The ANCA Chairman and Secretary Pompeo last exchanged correspondence on the matter in May of 2018, when the Secretary of State stated: “We appreciate your idea of a new MCC compact focused on STEAM education for Armenia. […] We hope to see the Armenian government make progress on MCC’s eligibility criteria (‘scorecard’) this year so that the MCC Board of Directors may consider Armenia for a compact during the annual selection process.”

The ANCA is advocating for a STEAM MCC grant for Armenia – that would – similar to the MCC compact recently concluded in neighboring Georgia – deliver over $75 million for school infrastructure improvements, $30 million for STEAM education projects, $15 million for vocational educational programs to meet the growing demand for information technology professionals, among other investments. The MCC grant would likely be apportioned over a 5-year period and would be subject to strict oversight by the MCC to ensure the program is benefiting students across Armenia.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an innovative and independent U.S. foreign aid agency that is helping lead the fight against global poverty. Created by the U.S. Congress in January 2004 with strong bipartisan support, MCC has changed the conversation on how best to deliver smart U.S. foreign assistance by focusing on good policies, country ownership, and results. MCC provides time-limited grants promoting economic growth, reducing poverty, and strengthening institutions.

The full text of the ANCA letter to Secretary Pompeo is available on the ANCA website.

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ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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By Sahak Zakarian, Internship Director, Chicago “Ararat” Chapter Alumnus

A two hour drive south of Stepanakert off the beaten path sits a village at the end of the world—the end of the Armenian world, as it seems. Past the great mountains of Artsakh, near the Arax river and border of Iran is Arajamugh—a village of approximately 150 inhabitants. Surrounded by barren hills, dried up riverbeds and countless pockets of abandoned Azeri homes, you will find a newly built oasis among the ruins of the Artsakh War. 

Like a patrol tower on the frontline, this entire village stands guard for Artsakh’s southern border. Take a walk through their village school, and you get the sense that this is where heroes are born and bred. Walls lined with war-time safety posters, drawings of tanks and flags and pictures of war heroes from life and myth remind you that the enemy is not far from where these people work, eat, sleep and raise their children. At the head of this crowd of past and future heroes stands an impressive heroine—the village mayor, Digin Shushan. 

The average Armenian villager may be perplexed to find a group of young diasporans on their doorstep on a hot August day in a place seemingly in the middle of nowhere, offering to do some yard work. Digin Shushan knew why we were there. She knew our motivation and understood we were there to contribute with our sweat and not our wallets. She was kind and reserved, yet her eyes could not hide her excitement. Our presence, although expected, had shattered the isolation of this place. It was a strange feeling, being so far from home, yet so close to where you belong. The thousands of miles we traveled, the long unpaved road from Hadrut, the vast differences in our lives began to diminish with each moment we spent here.

Digin Shushan guided our group of young interns to their newly-built town hall building and adjacent clinic. As she gave us a tour of this new place, she was describing it with such familiarity to us, as if it were our own home. One of our interns noticed a room with a plaque sponsored by the priest from his church at home in New York. This faraway place was inching closer to our reality. As the conversation grew and she began to learn about each of us and where we were from, she started to list the names of people we knew from our respective chapters and about how they had visited or contributed to Arajamugh. By the time we began to work, it was all so familiar that we felt as though we were working at our agoumps back home.

The mayor’s son brought us a few shovels and a rake, and we began to clean the area surrounding the town hall. We cleared weeds and debris, raked the field, paved and watered the freshly planted pomegranate saplings. Our presence even attracted some of the village kids, who began to trickle in with their own tools in hand to contribute to the improvement of their community space. 

After a few hours we had finished the work and headed over to the recently completed soccer field to unwind and spend time with our young helpers. It was there we were met with yet another familiar face; however, this one was from another time and another place. Above the entrance to the field in one foot letters was written: Maral Melkonian Field. Next to the entrance, etched in stone was her image. In that moment, time, space, past and present collided and the familiarity of Ungerouhi Maral’s sweet smile transported us to a time when she was teaching our AYF and Homenetmen kids about Artsakh, the war, and quite possibly this very place. 

Although she is no longer physically with us, there she stood, like the immovable force she was in our communities back home, now like a fortress on our frontline. It was an emotional revelation, one we needed to capture and save. So we stood to take a picture with two heroines, one past, one present: Ungerouhi Maral and Digin Shushan. In that moment it all made sense; despite being so far removed from our usual context, we were exactly where we’re meant to be. 

Arajamugh is a village in southern Artsakh that was founded in 2004 by the efforts of the Tufenkian Foundation and has since been expanded by the Artsakh Fund of the Armenian Cultural Association of America Eastern USA. So far, they have built 26 homes, a school, town hall office, an athletic field and clinic. There are plans to continually expand the village and its population. The AYF Eastern Region USA has contributed financially to this effort, as well as through community service projects with AYF Interns for the past three years. To support this project, you can donate to the Artsakh Fund Eastern USA.

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AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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WASHINGTON, DC – Ask participants in the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Leo Sarkisian Internship and Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellowship about their favorite part of their two-month journey through the nation’s capital, and you’ll get answers as diverse as their backgrounds as university students from across the U.S. and Canada.

Now, back in their hometowns and campuses preparing to begin the new academic year, one thing is certain: all are eager to apply their experiences and newfound insight to advance Armenian American priorities and empower new activists to join the Armenian Cause.

“What an amazing summer to have been in Washington, DC,” said ANCA Programs Director Sipan Ohannesian, who served as a coach and mentor to the interns, helping them expertly navigate the ways of Washington. “With four legislative amendments impacting U.S. economic and political ties with Armenia and Artsakh, and over a dozen advanced seminars and workshops focusing on everything from our unique geopolitical challenges to future career opportunities – it was a non-stop summer of advocacy and learning. And, through it all, friendships were forged that will last a lifetime.”

For incoming Georgetown University law student Varant Anmahouni, a memorable summer moment was discussing the importance of two Artsakh-related pieces of legislation with Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL)—himself a Greek American. “His embrace of our immediate cause was, of course, appreciated. But perhaps more striking was the genuine passion with which he explained the necessity of justice for wronged Christian communities throughout the region – sentiments he also expressed to the Hellenic community during a commemoration of Turkey’s illegal occupation of Cyprus,” said Anmahouni. “This not only stood out as a rare case of moral consistency but also underscored the importance of cooperation among groups with similar struggles and existential threats.”

For Montclair State University finance major Roubina Bozoian, the fast-paced nature of the summer offered an adrenaline rush. “My favorite part was when we got the early morning notification that we were needed on the Hill hours later to rally support for the Sherman-Cox Letter to save U.S. aid to Artsakh,” said Bozoian. “Congress was out of session, which meant ensuring our community’s voices were heard in time would be no easy task.  But in the end, the community’s letters and calls – and a lot of door-knocking and face-to-face advocacy – paid off with over 89 House members co-signing the letter.”

Arranging a meeting and discussing community concerns with Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), who represents Nairi Diratsouian’s alma mater Ramapo College was a highlight for the psychology major. “Subsequently we ran into Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and I had the opportunity to discuss U.S. policy on the Armenian Genocide and thank her for recent co-sponsorship of H.Res.296,” explained Diratsouian.

Harvard University government and music major Mary Galstian appreciated the educational component of the ANCA summer program. “A favorite was a conversation with former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans on topics ranging from his diplomatic career and the current state of Artsakh to challenging the morally questionable U.S. position on the Armenian Genocide, and, more broadly, US-Armenian foreign policy. Amb. Evans is not afraid to speak the truth when it comes to Armenian justice, inspiring many policymakers to uphold high moral principles,” said Galstian.

Political science major Hakop Hajibekyan enjoyed the ANCA outing to the Congressional Baseball Game, where our team mingled with Members of Congress in a more casual setting. “One member that stood out above all for me was Congressman Jim Costa,” said Hajibekyan.  “Congressman Costa and I sat next to each other at America’s favorite past time and talked about Armenia, Artsakh and everyday politics in the United States. Part of what this internship taught me is no matter how much fun you are having or where your life takes you, you always have the opportunity to further the Armenian Cause.”

For McGill University anthropology and political science major Karin Kassabian, a Canadian new to American politics, a favorite moment was sitting down with the chief of staff of a member of Congress who traditionally opposes Armenian American concerns. “Armed with the training and facts the ANCA staff had provided, I was able to effectively engage the staffer on the importance of pro-Armenia initiatives, reminding him of Armenia’s political situation and realities. In the end, the U.S. Representative supported us on that particular issue,” remarked Kassabian.

California State University Fullerton political science major Greg Mikhanjian said a memory from the first week of the ANCA internship as the most impactful.  “After a long day on Capitol Hill, we were all at the ANCA office watching the votes on the Speier and Cox Amendments securing additional U.S. aid to Armenia and Artsakh. And then the gavel struck, and the celebration started – making all the hard work worth it,” noted Mikhanjian.

For Wesleyan Government and Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies (REES) major Lucine Poturyan, the inaugural Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellow, the greatest moment of the internship was meeting Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). “The women in the group had gone to an event that Politico was hosting for female chiefs of staff, and we left feeling empowered and ready to make a change,” said Poturyan. “Later that day, we met Speaker Pelosi in the Capitol and had a moment to discuss U.S. policy on the Armenian Genocide and encourage her to bring the resolution (H.Res.296) up for a full floor vote. And we made the same pitch to the Speaker exactly a week later at the Congressional Baseball Game,” concluded Poturyan.

“Meeting with the Armenian community in Richmond, Virginia stands out to me,” said Merrimack College international relations major Daron Pogharian. “Seeing how emotional some of the veteran members became when they saw the ‘new generation’ singing and dancing with them to the songs of old was quite moving. The joy of sharing that experience with them, however, had to be tempered with a serious underlying point: it will be up to us to continue bearing the timeless torch of Armenian advocacy,” explained Pogharian.

Also participating in the summer program were ANCA Hovig Apo Saghdejian Capital Gateway Program High School interns Arya Balian and Hayk Safaryan.

Established in 1986, the ANCA Leo Sarkisian Summer Internship program provides student leaders and activists an opportunity to participate in an eight-week intensive program designed to give them the tools necessary to effectively advance issues of concern to the Armenian American community on the federal, state and local level. Named in memory of the late ANCA Eastern U.S. community leader who spearheaded grassroots activism to advance the Armenian Cause for more than four decades, the Leo Sarkisian program now 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.

In 2019, the ANCA inaugurated the Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellowship, a living legacy to the devoted youth leader whose community activism and commitment to the Armenian homeland continue to inspire new generations of young Armenian Americans.  During the eight-week Washington, DC program, interns live at the ANCA Aramian House, located a short distance from the ANCA offices.

Applications are already open for the 2020 Leo Sarkisian Internship and Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellowship, which will run concurrently from June 15 to August 7. The application deadline is March 1, 2020.

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ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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By Varant Anmahouni
ANCA Leo Sarkisian – Class of 2019
Georgetown University Law School – Class of 2022

I came to DC in search of a lesson on the organizational aspect of advocacy. Like any “engaged” Armenian, I was familiar with the effective work of the ANCA headquarters in DC and hoped for the opportunity to see what they did differently. In a sense, I was in search of some special insight into the magic being worked at 1711 N St NW. Eight weeks later, I have come to realize that there is no magic; that the meat and potatoes to the Hai Tahd equation in DC is no different from our community’s successes worldwide. Everything is—and always will be—contingent upon principled action, total accountability and committed advocacy.

This point may appear self-evident: after all, many people talk freely about “devotion” or “commitment” to a cause. However, talking about dedication and actually dedicating oneself to every aspect of a given task remain entirely separate matters. In this sense, the Leo Sarkisian Internship has also doubled as a graduate course on organizational commitment—taught by staff members who have shown us what such work might look like, in lieu of simply telling us.

To illustrate this point, allow me to share some observations. Consider Harout Margossian: a life-long advocate who has given more to the Armenian community than most ever could. Today, even in his professional retirement and no-doubt deserving of a “break,” Mr. Margossian’s efforts remain steadfast. Indeed, he continues to serve the ANCA and goes about his work—including tasks that others might consider mundane—with the same seriousness and passion with which he has always served the community. Others have no hesitation working past midnight to focus on the latest Artsakh initiative, before returning to work a few hours later with the same enthusiasm. These examples, which hold true for everyone at the office, provide a salient lesson: when it comes to advocacy, there is no such thing as “small” or “big” tasks. The job is the job, and compromising on any one aspect threatens the structure upon which our larger aspirations rest.

This situation owes to Armenia’s geopolitical realities—particularly due to our relative lack of regional assets. For decades, such material disparities have proven limiting when it comes to our influence at the negotiating table. And while the “paper ladle” to which Armenians have been limited has gained strength since Khrimian Hayrig extended his famous analogy, we are still building the geopolitical teeth to truly dictate nation-building on our own terms. Consequently, the success of our national prospects often relies on an equalizer of sorts: an unmatched wealth we possess to favorably tip the balance. Or, to echo ANCA chairman emeritus Garo Armenian, “leverage.”

Our leverage is grassroots advocacy. As Armenians worldwide coalesce around pressing matters, our ability to dictate nation-building grows more fruitful. But the flip side is also true: our influence diminishes where we zig-zag around issues that ought to be non-negotiable. Even where we portray unity on such issues, weaknesses still arise when we seek substitutes for hard work and committed advocacy. This adds an urgency to the Armenian identity—an existential choice, if you will, compelling everyone who so-identifies to play their part in giving Armenian policymakers the tools they need to secure our interests. Fortunately, there is a silver lining: the strength of a diaspora spread throughout dozens of countries, coupled with the dedication of our co-ethnics in Armenia and Artsakh, provide a wealth of unique angles to better serve Hai Tahd.

Still, actualizing this potential requires honesty. It is contingent upon understanding our respective strengths and limitations—what we are, and what we are not.  For instance, while we may feel a “call to action” upon hearing of 19-year-old Armenians who are killed weekly on the front lines of Artsakh, most of us are not soldiers. We may read and hear stories of the uncompromising advocates who propelled the issue of Hai Tahd to prominence during generations past, but we ourselves are not yet so polished. We are, however, uniquely situated as citizens of the United States—empowered by unique opportunities and growing up as a generation that worries not with the struggle of establishing an independent homeland.

To this end, we have prior generations to thank—generations which, through their resilience and principled advocacy throughout decades of Soviet Rule, proved that it was not simply nationalistic romanticism to believe that an independent Armenia would once again exist; that there is a difference between having ideals and being ideologues. We stand to gain something by keeping this perspective in mind. The fear of standing for something nonsensical, especially when your aspirations amount to little more than basic justice for some of the darkest stains on the moral fabric of humanity.

Amidst this backdrop, members of the Diaspora can choose from a multitude of avenues for advancing Hai Tahd. Leo Sarkisian interns do so by joining an organization and a community which has continually played a front-line role in pursuing these issues—by creating leverage. Indeed, as Artsakh’s Representative to the United States Robert Avetisyan aptly noted, “you have to create your own luck.” The ANCA certainly has.

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ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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Seventy-five years ago, in Normandy, France, so many American soldiers fought in hell for a heavenly cause, and so many were killed thousands of miles away from home. The Normandy American Cemetery, which overlooks Omaha Beach, is a perpetual reminder of their courage and sacrifice. Among the 9,388 heroes buried in this cemetery, there is a father and his son, there are three generals, there are four women, and there is an Armenian American hero named Harry A. Proodian.

Harry was born on August 26, 1925 in West New York, New Jersey. He was the son of Charles and Zevart Proodian; he had a sister named Grace. His mother left Armenia after her parents and her brother were murdered in the Armenian Genocide. Harry wasn’t an ordinary teenager; he was a virtuoso violinist and an artist.

Drafted in the U.S. Army in 1943, Harry left his family, his home, his life and went to train at Camp Croft, South Carolina. At the end of his training, he was sent to Fort Meade, Maryland, where he was assigned to the 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division. Private Harry Proodian would later be transferred into the 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division.

In April 1944, Harry was among thousands of sons, brothers, fathers and husbands, who went overseas to serve their country and defend its values. On June 14, 1944, he landed in Normandy and fought with his brothers in arms.  

Two weeks later, on June 28, 1944, Harry’s unit was in Portbail, Normandy. After violent battles, the front was very quiet, but on an ordinary patrol, Pvt Harry Proodian was killed by a mortar shell. Just like that, the sounds of war put an end to the melody, and only the silence remained. Harry was only 18 years old when his eyes closed and his heart stopped beating.

Harry could have been one of the greatest violinists in the world. He could have shared his passion and traveled all around the world with his violin. He could have created music and reinvented his art. But the destiny of this Armenian American violinist was to be a hero. It was to fight for his country, to face fear and death, and to sacrifice his own life for ours.

A few years ago, in Portbail, Normandy, a marker was installed to remember Harry’s sacrifice. Last month, a monument was erected in honor of Pvt Proodian. Both ceremonies were attended by Harry’s nephew, Edward Sarkisian.

Seventy-five years after Harry’s death and two days before his 94th birthday, let’s never forget what he lost for freedom to win, and let’s never forget the story of this Armenian American hero.

Happy Birthday, Harry. Rest in Peace.  

_{Photos: Bruno Cadeville – Edward Sarkisian (Neveu) – Frédéric Lavernhe – Globalarmenianheritage-adic.fr – Valentin Gascher}

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John Dekhane

John Dekhane grew up in Paris before moving to the South of France. He works for a sport organization in Monaco. Since he was a child, he has always been interested in World War II with particular emphasis on American soldiers. In order to honor them, over the past years, he has located and purchased WWII U.S. artifacts in Europe and donated these items to more than a hundred museums in the United States.

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The Board of Regional Directors of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA, Inc. has announced the recipients of the ARS Undergraduate Scholarships and Lazarian Graduate Scholarships for the 2019-2020 school year. 

The scholarships are based on merit, financial need, and involvement in the Armenian community. Recipients must be of Armenian descent and must be enrolled in a four year college or university in the United States. This year, the ARS of Eastern USA awarded over $50,000 to 40 students from 14 states.

The ARS Undergraduate Scholarship Fund was established through the generous donations of many benefactors, who provided the financial resources necessary for the ARS to assist Armenian undergraduate students for over three decades.

The ARS George and Beatrice Lazarian Graduate Scholarship Fund has also granted hundreds of generous scholarships to deserving graduate students.

Found in 1910, the ARS is a nonprofit, charitable organization comprised of Armenians who volunteer their time and effort to support the educational and humanitarian needs of the Armenian people throughout the world. The ARS Eastern USA consists of 1,200 members in 32 chapters located throughout the states east of the Mississippi River. 

The scholarship application deadline is April 1st. The administrative office address is:        

Armenian Relief Society of Eastern USA, Inc.
80 Bigelow Avenue, Suite 200
Watertown, Massachusetts 02472

Lazarian Graduate Scholarship Recipients 

Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients

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Armenian Relief Society Eastern U.S.

The ARS Eastern USA has 32 chapters located throughout the New England, Mid-Atlantic, Midwestern, and Southeastern regions of the United States. Please contact the ARS Eastern U.S. Regional Office (arseastus@gmail.com) if you would like more information about a chapter near you.

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LOWELL, Mass.—Hundreds of community leaders and grassroots activists throughout the Eastern United States will gather together at the 13th annual Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) banquet on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at the University of Massachusetts Lowell Inn & Conference Center to mark the year’s accomplishments and honor those who have worked tirelessly for the Armenian cause.

Each year, the ANCA-ER honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions toward issues that concern Armenian Americans with the ANCA-ER Freedom Award and ANCA-ER Vahan Cardashian Award. This year’s recipients of the ANCA-ER Freedom Award are Dr. Taner Akçam and Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), and this year’s recipients of the ANCA-ER Vahan Cardashian Awards are Aram, Armen and Ara Jeknavorian.

Dr. Akçam is the Robert Aram, Marianne Kaloosdian and Stephen and Marian Mugar Chair in Armenian Genocide Studies at Clark University. Dr. Akçam was one of the first Turkish intellectuals to acknowledge and openly discuss the Armenian Genocide. As the chair of the Armenian Genocide Studies program at Clark, he directs research and teaches future generations of scholars about the Armenian Genocide.

“We are honored to have Dr. Akçam join us at this year’s banquet. He is a prominent researcher and advocate for the Armenian cause. He has dedicated his life to truth-telling and accuracy in teaching and research, and we are eager to present him with this year’s ANCA-ER Freedom Award,” said Steve Mesrobian, 2019 ANCA-ER Banquet Committee Co-Chair.

Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), who serves the second district of Massachusetts (Leominster, North Hampton and Worcester), has dedicated his career to serving as a human rights activist. As the co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and a ranking member of the House Rules Committee, he’s been able to create change and impact legislation that has been meaningful for dozens of underrepresented groups.  

As a proponent of human rights, Congressman McGovern has been a long-time friend of the ANCA and the Armenian American community of Massachusetts. He’s supported key legislation and has consistently called upon the U.S. government and presidents to properly and accurately recognize the Armenian Genocide. Most recently, Congressman McGovern played an instrumental role in ruling on both the Chu and Sherman Amendments, which endorsed the bipartisan Royce-Engel peace proposal for Artsakh and blocked the transfer of US defense articles to Baku. Both amendments were backed by the ANCA and offered to the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.

“As a longtime supporter and constituent of Congressman McGovern, I am thrilled that he’ll be joining us at this year’s banquet to accept the ANCA-ER Freedom Award. His life’s work has been to shine a spotlight on injustices and human rights violations throughout the world. The Armenian American community of Massachusetts, and the region as a whole, is eager to thank him for his dedication and support,” said George Aghjayan, Chairman, ANCA Eastern Region Endowment Fund.

The Vahan Cardashian Award is given annually to an ANCA-ER activist or supporter who demonstrates longstanding accomplishments on behalf of the Armenian Cause. This year, the ANCA-ER has chosen to honor three deserving activists – Aram, Armen and Ara Jeknavorian.

Along with building key congressional relationships throughout the years, the Jeknavorians have worked tirelessly in positions of leadership in the ANC of Merrimack Valley while also serving the needs of numerous Armenian American organizations throughout the Merrimack Valley. 

“Our community is so proud and honored to have the Jeknavorian brothers recognized for their unwavering commitment to both the ANCA and the entire Merrimack Valley Armenian Community. All three brothers have devoted their lives to promoting Hai Tahd and advocating on behalf of Armenia and Artsakh. The ANC of Merrimack Valley is eager to have our friends and supporters join us in honoring the Jeknavorian brothers for their continued efforts, which have led to significant political support from numerous elected officials in our area,” said Mimi Parseghian, 2019 ANCA-ER Banquet Committee member and ANC of Merrimack Valley Member.

The evening will include a silent auction featuring numerous items donated from local Armenian and non-Armenian businesses and individuals, as well as organizations such as AYF Camp Haiastan and the Armenian Heritage Cruise.

“The ANCA Eastern Region is looking forward to celebrating our accomplishments with our activists and supporters. We’ve got a very deserving group of honorees and a dynamic host committee comprised of ANCA activists from the ANC of Merrimack Valley, Chicago, Massachusetts and New Jersey,” said Nairee Hagopian, Co-Chair of the 2019 ANCA-ER Banquet Committee. “Our fantastic team is working to prepare an unforgettable evening for our guests.”

ANCA Eastern Region 13^th Annual Banquet
Saturday, November 9

6 pm Cocktails & Silent Auction
7:30 pm Dinner & Awards Program

University of Massachusetts Lowell Inn & Conference Center
50 Warren Street
Lowell, MA 01852

For more information about this year’s banquet, please visit, call or email https://ancaef.org/2019-banquet/, (917) 428-1918 or erbanquet@anca.org.

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ANCA-Eastern Region

The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region is part of the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots organization, the ANCA. Working in coordination with the ANCA in Washington, DC, and a network of chapters and supporters throughout the Eastern United States, the ANCA-ER actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

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Through funding from ArmeniaTools4Schools, the Berd Vocational State School in the Tavush region in Armenia received $25,000 in tools, equipment and supplies from December 2018 through April 2019. This support re-establishes a welding department at the school, re-supplied the electrical department and doubled the equipment in the sewing and tailoring department. 

Founded in 1972, the Berd Craftsman State School was a top vocational education and training institution with functioning workshops and laboratories that provided training in many fields. Tuition is free at the school and the average age of students ranges from 16 to 20 years old. It is the only vocational school in the Berd region; its graduates work in the 16 villages surrounding the town of Berd. After the transition to a market-based economy and increasing budget costs to the government because of the war, funding to the school declined and some departments became non-operational.  

The equipment comes at a key time when enrollment at the school declined 33 percent from 2013 to 2018. Principal Anna Avalyan explained, “We have good instructors to teach welding. We just don’t have the tools and equipment to teach that trade.” The new shipment of tools restores the welding department at the school. ArmeniaTools4schools is a North Carolina non-profit charitable organization dedicated to supporting vocational schools in Armenia. George Bournazian, President of ArmeniaTools4Schools in Raleigh, North Carolina said, “We’re proud to be helping the Berd Region rebuild, and it starts with empowering the students by giving them the tools and equipment to start their professional careers. We look forward to continuing this program with more regions throughout Armenia.”

Knight Electronics in Dallas, Texas worked with ArmeniaTools4Schools to provide the equipment, tools and supplies at substantially reduced prices for charitable and educational purposes through their Knight Educational Products Division. “I have known George Bournazian for 15 years, and when he came to us with this plan to provide support to Armenian vocational schools, we were ready to support him and the next generation of Armenian trade professionals,” said John Knight, President of Knight Electronics. 

This effort is in part, to help rebuild economic infrastructure and strengthen the social institutions in the Berd region.

This article is a press release submitted to the Armenian Weekly and has been published to our community news section as a courtesy. If your organization has news it would like to submit to the paper for consideration, please email us at editor@armenianweekly.com. Please note that this service is reserved for organizations that engage in not-for-profit or humanitarian work in the Armenian community. Publication is not guaranteed.

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Guest Contributor

Guest contributions to the Armenian Weekly are informative articles written and submitted by members of the community, which make up our community bulletin board.

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By Gregory Mikhanjian
Cal State Fullerton, Class of 2021
ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship 2019

It didn’t really dawn on me that I was going to be on my own for the first time until I was flying over Oklahoma. I had left my home in sunny California and was on my way to the nation’s’capital, only having a slight grasp on the type of work I was going to be involved in.

In the first week, we hit the ground running. Rather than a formal orientation into what our summer was going to look like, we were put right to work to ensure that two pro-Armenia amendments passed in Congress. Visiting every congressional office and speaking with staff about why they should support the amendments initially felt like an overwhelming task, but with each visit my confidence flourished.

One of the most exciting and enjoyable parts of the internship has been the crazy schedule. For the first amendment that we passed, I loved how we waited in the office watching the vote, waiting to see if we were going to harvest the fruits of our labor. What I loved even more than that was after a brief celebration, our thoughts immediately turned to “what’s next.” We are always looking to achieve the next goal. It’s a “vazn i vaz” job, and I couldn’t be happier.

To put this experience into a single word, I would say that it was my dream—a dream that was defined by two exclusive criteria: being active in Washington, D.C. and incorporating myself into the work of Hai Tahd. Political work has always intrigued me, and while I have been active in my own state, I had always dreamed of working in D.C. As for my involvement with Hai Tahd, I have had the good fortune of being in the AYF for almost ten years. It was in that membership where I first learned about Artsakh, and I was ecstatic to be a part of the two pro-Artsakh amendments that also passed recently.

Perhaps some of the more profound moments for me have been personally meeting senators and members of Congress. Seeing Senator Feinstein being receptive to our issues and casually exchanging jokes with her afterward was particularly memorable because of how the tone of the meeting shifted so quickly; sometimes we forget they’re human too. Hearing Congressman Bilirakis call us his “Armenian cousins,” having a heartfelt conversation with Congresswoman Eshoo about the Armenian struggle, and hearing Congressman Sherman testify that Artsakh is historically Armenian were life-changing moments for me.

I had grown up always hearing about how Armenians had gotten the short end of the stick in so many different ways. So many failures and injustices committed against our people, it was no wonder that my view of American politics towards Armenia was negative. However, I came to this internship only to discover that the Armenian community possesses many friends in Washington. I was also reminded that incrementalism is a very real aspect of the political world. Change is agonizingly slow, almost to the point that it feels like regression, but this summer is proof that with tenacity and perseverance progress can be achieved.

Out of the plethora of memories this internship has already given me, the most lasting will be the friendships that I have forged. Within the first week, it felt like we had already been living together for months. We can be arguing in one moment and laughing together in the next, and then a moment later we’re cooking and eating dinner together. It truly feels like a home away from home.

Earlier I mentioned that this internship was my first time living alone, but that wasn’t really true. This internship has done nothing but solidify my belief that William Saroyan was right when he said, “For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” That’s why I believe in Hai Tahd and the work that the ANCA does. I will never really be on my own as long as I have a fellow Armenian by my side. If there should be none around me, I’ll still always have Armenia in my heart and Hai Tahd on my mind. 

Author information

ANCA

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues. To learn more, visit www.anca.org.

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