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The Pan Armenian Council of the Western United States is profoundly dismayed by and strongly condemns the recent destructive arson at the Ararat Armenian Cemetery in Fresno, where eight trees near the cemetery’s historic gates were set ablaze in the early morning hours of Saturday, April 13.
The Ararat Cemetery holds the distinction of being the oldest Armenian cemetery in the United States, serving as the final resting place for hundreds of Armenians since the 19th century including renowned figures Soghomon Tehlirian and William Saroyan.
Every year on April 24th, the cemetery is purposed as a safe gathering place for the community at large to solemnly commemorate the anniversary of the 1915 Armenian Genocide, during which more than 1.5 million Armenians were systematically massacred and displaced from their ancestral lands by Ottoman Turks. Beyond remembering the victims, these annual gatherings also function as demonstrations, urging the global community to recognize the genocide that both Turkey and Azerbaijan actively deny to this day.
It’s deeply concerning that this recent fire occurred just eleven days before Ararat Cemetery observes this year’s Armenian Genocide commemoration—and more disturbingly, that it’s the sixth incident of its kind since January of this year. These repeated acts of arson have set aflame nineteen trees so far, causing significant and costly damage to the cemetery’s oldest sections.
Ignoring this recurring pattern would be gravely irresponsible. The Pan-Armenian Council strongly urges federal, state, and Fresno’s local authorities to immediately undertake a comprehensive investigation and act decisively to apprehend the responsible culprit(s). We emphasize that the frequency, severity, and similarity of these incidents at the Ararat Armenian Cemetery necessitate a serious consideration of these crimes as deliberate acts of vandalism and hate crime.
Listed below are the member organizations of the Pan Armenian Council of the Western United States (PAC-WUSA).
All-Armenian Student Association
Armenian Assembly of America
Armenian Bar Association
Armenian Catholic Eparchy of Our Lady of Nareg of North America
Armenian Democratic Liberal Party (Ramgavar) Western USA
Armenian Educational Foundation
Armenian Evangelical Union of North America
Armenian General Benevolent Union, Western District
Armenian International Women’s Organization
Armenian Missionary Association of America
Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region
Armenian Relief Society of Western USA
Armenian Revolutionary Federation of Western USA
Armenian Rights Council of America Western USA
Armenian Society of Los Angeles – Iranahay Miutyun
Armenian Youth Association of California – Irakahay Miutyun
Armenian Youth Federation of Western USA
Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of the Western USA
Homenetmen Western USA
Iraqi Armenian Family Association of Los Angeles
Kessab Educational Association
Organization of Istanbul Armenians
Service Employees International Union – Armenian Caucus
Southern California Armenian Democrats
Tekeyan Cultural Association
Unified Young Armenians
Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
On April 12, Armenia’s National Assembly made history by approving a comprehensive set of amendments to the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence, Protection of Persons Subjected to Domestic Violence, and Restoration of Peace in the Family. This groundbreaking move represents the first significant overhaul of the law since its adoption in 2017.
The amendments offer a robust framework for addressing domestic violence, with provisions aimed at providing greater protection and support to survivors. The amended law reflects a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals affected by domestic violence by offering clearer definitions of abuse, enhanced legal protections for children who witness violence, expanded medical care for victims and stronger measures to hold perpetrators of violence accountable for their crimes.
Armenia has made remarkable progress since gaining independence in 1991 in addressing domestic violence. For decades, this issue was shrouded in taboo, misconception and stereotypes that further victimized those experiencing abuse.
A sign at the gates of Armenian Parliament reads “Approve the law against domestic violence” (Photo: Change.org)
Grassroots activism, civil society protests and advocacy, alongside pressure from the European Union, led the government to adopt the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence, Protection of Persons Exposed to Domestic Violence, and Restoration of Peace in the Family in 2017. The law was imperfect but served as a crucial initial step toward progress.
In 2022, members of Parliament Zaruhi Batoyan, Sona Ghazaryan and Tsovinar Vardanyan led a bill aimed at amending this crucial legislation and related laws. The Women’s Support Center, Armenia’s leading domestic violence center, played a pivotal role in crafting the bill by presenting a comprehensive package of proposals to its authors, most of which were incorporated into the final legislation. Two years of discussions ensued among state and non-state actors before the amendments were passed in Parliament.
Transformative impact of the new domestic violence legislation
- Comprehensive definitions of all forms of domestic violence
By offering clearer and more comprehensive definitions of domestic violence, the amendments ensure that all forms of abuse are properly recognized and addressed. Survivors who seek refuge at the Women’s Support Center recount harrowing experiences of being trapped in their own homes, subjected to constant surveillance and denied basic freedoms and medical care. Unfortunately, the previous legal framework fell short in adequately responding to these realities, with only a handful of cases addressing severe mental suffering. This highlights the urgent need for precise and inclusive definitions around domestic violence.
- Emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility
One of the most important aspects of these amendments is the emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. Regardless of marital status or sexual orientation, all individuals impacted by domestic violence are entitled to equal rights and protections under the law. In Armenia, a considerable portion of marriages remain unofficially registered, and domestic violence frequently occurs within intimate or dating partnerships. Now, victims in these circumstances can be offered protections. Additionally, the law now requires shelters to be accessible, ensuring that no survivor is left behind and signaling a commitment to a more inclusive and supportive society.
- Stronger sanctions for perpetrators of domestic violence
Stricter language around police-issued emergency protective orders and increased accountability for perpetrators have also been introduced. Consequently, the revised criminal code includes more substantial fines, sanctions and prison sentences tailored to the severity of the offense, sending a clear message to the public that domestic violence is a serious crime. The amendments specify that perpetrators targeting vulnerable and marginalized groups, such as people with disabilities, will face even harsher sanctions, demonstrating a commitment to protecting all members of our community. Additionally, the amendments outline specific consequences for repeat offenders, signaling a firm stance that repeated acts of violence will be met with swift and decisive punishment. By ensuring that perpetrators face tougher penalties and sanctions, we firmly declare that domestic violence has no place in our society.
- Investment in domestic violence prevention and training
Beyond immediate response and protection, the amendments also prioritize prevention efforts and professionalized training for law enforcement to strengthen the capacity of first responders. In doing so, Armenia is taking proactive steps towards creating a society where domestic violence is not tolerated.
In essence, these amendments represent a significant milestone in Armenia’s journey towards addressing domestic violence. They embody the collective efforts of advocates, lawmakers and survivors to create a more just and compassionate society for all. As we celebrate this progress, let us recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a future where every individual can thrive free from violence and fear. We need strong legislation, coupled with a societal reckoning that domestic violence should not be tolerated, to end this practice.
Author information
Ani Jilozian
Ani Jilozian is a women’s rights advocate with a master’s degree in global public health from the Icahn School of Public Health at Mount Sinai. Ani works as Director of Development at the Women’s Support Center, the premiere domestic violence center in Armenia. In her role at the Center, Ani has led gender-based violence programming and published research studies that examine gender-based violence, women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights, and gender politics in Armenia. She is also involved in high-level advocacy and has contributed to shadow and alternative reports.
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Agnesa Kirakosian in the ring
Agnesa ‘Spitfire’ Kirakosian has cemented herself as the first Armenian bare knuckle boxing champion. Her journey to hoisting the coveted BYB Super Flyweight title wasn’t always as straightforward as her jabs.
Kirakosian was born and raised in Vagharshapat, located just west of Yerevan, Armenia. Before boxing, she was introduced to a variety of sports that ultimately did not click with her.
“When I was a little kid, they put me in swim, gymnastics, art and forced me to do dance…my brother used to go to karate, and then I would always dress up in his state outfit and be like, teach me moves! And then I would always be fighting with him and other kids in Armenia,” Kirakosian said to the Armenian Weekly.
When she was nine years old, her family moved to the Los Angeles area, where she currently resides. ‘Spitfire’ told the Weekly that her time at Glendale Community College was pivotal in her introduction to the sport of boxing. Seeing the college’s boxers train for the first time drew her into combat sports.
“I thought that was so cool. They were training super hard, and it looked fun. It looked interesting, like, what are they doing? It looked like a Rocky movie,” Kirakosian explained. “I kept going past them, and I was looking at them, and they asked me, ‘Hey, do you want to come join?’ So now people ask me like, when did you choose boxing? I say boxing chose me.”
That’s when the roots of her love for boxing were planted. But her family was initially hesitant when they found out about Kirakosian’s desire to box.
“They tried really hard to sit me down and talk to me and say that it’s not a good idea. My dad was like, ‘Why don’t you go play tennis?’” Kirakosian said. “My dad plays the electric guitar. He actually had a band in Armenia Spyurk…I was like, ‘Why don’t you go play the flute then?’ And he kind of got the point, like, why would I go play tennis?”
“They tried really hard to discourage me and get me out of it, but nothing worked, because it was the true passion that I had, and I didn’t listen to anyone. I just followed what I wanted to do,” Kirakosian continued.
Her family would eventually get on board with her dreams, especially her brother.
“My brother was the only one who actually believed in me. He was the only one who was on my side, and he was like, come on, if she wants to do it, let her do it,” Kirakosian added. “Now they actually support me, and my dad helps me mentally. And when we were growing up, I felt like he would always play Bruce Lee movies. They have fights in them too.”
It wasn’t until 2021 that Kirakosian made her official pro boxing debut along the border of California, Arizona and Mexico. She defeated Sarahi Juarex Godinez, the hometown boxer, wasting no time with a TKO within seconds.
“I was super nervous, and I was really excited. I was just thinking, how am I going to do? And then I did everything that I was supposed to do,” Kirakosian said.
In total, Kirakosian holds an 11-2 amateur boxing record and a 6-1 pro boxing record, including three bare knuckle bouts. The boxing gloves would soon come off as Kirakosian entered the world of bare knuckle boxing.
“I got a really good opportunity from BYB, and my coach told me about it, that they had an offer for a contract to be on their card and fight in Dubai. I wasn’t really able to get more fights for boxing, and honestly, it wasn’t really paying as much. So I said, you know what, I’m down. Let’s do it if that’s what it takes. I want to go to Dubai and fight and rep my country,” Kirakosian explained.
The switch to bare knuckle boxing has been fruitful for Kirakosian. Debuting on March 18, 2023 for BYB Extreme Bare Knuckle (just 21 days after her final boxing bout), Kirakosian scored a unanimous decision win over Mariana Kamara.
Later that year, Kirakosian stepped into the ring again for a battle with Jessica Link that ended in another unanimous decision win for the Armenian in the fight of the night at BYB 21.
Kirakosian’s success culminated on April 4, 2024 when she battled Shelby Cannon for the BYB Super Flyweight title in Florida. She said the physical preparations were just the tip of the iceberg.
“It was super hard and intense. It feels like the fights have gotten harder and harder each time. It was nerve-wracking, because I was just nervous all of the time, and I was training twice a day. Training with weightlifting, boxing, running, cardio, sparring…it’s like a spiritual, mental, physical fight. It takes a lot out of you. That’s why I’m glad I had my family supporting me and my friends,” Kirakosian said.
For Kirakosian, overcoming the mental challenge that the fight game brings was crucial to her success. “I love the whole thing about pushing yourself as much as you can and seeing where you’re at, but most of the time, I never felt like I was doing good. I feel like I’m doing bad at camp, and then you’re scared, like how is it going to go,” she reflected.
All of her hard work would indeed pay off.
“During the fight, I felt like I started slow. I don’t know what was up with me. I was super nervous. I felt like, woah, this girl is stronger than I thought,” Kirakosian recalled. “And then I was like, you know what, now I gotta box. She made my nose bleed, and that woke me up.”
Her hand was hoisted up in victory for the BYB Super Flyweight championship.
“It’s basically in the judges’ hands, and I was praying to God. And when they raised my hand, I was for a second so relieved. All I could do was praise God, because we got the victory, and we were training for that. I wanted to perform my absolute best – and I got that. And even when I look back I’m like, man I could’ve done this better. I want to fight her again right now so I can do it way better, but I did everything I could in that moment, so I have to just give myself props instead of tear myself down,” Kirakosian said.
Prior to Kirakosian’s title victory, she made sure to bring the Armenian flag with her during the faceoff with her opponent. She says she takes a lot of pride in her people and where she comes from.
“It’s really important for me to represent my country, because we come from a small nation that’s been fighting our whole lives, even before we were born. Through so many genocides…we’ve been survivors, and I feel like every Armenian that succeeds in life, we’re a representation of our little country. They tried to overcome us, and they didn’t. I am proud to be an Armenian. It means a lot to be able to come from such a small country and represent who we are, and doing it in fighting just shows the fighting spirit that we have,” Kirakosian said.
Kirakosian is now enjoying her title victory to the fullest. Immediately following her fight, she was in pain from sustaining a broken hand during the fight. That led to an overnight stay in the emergency room. She credits the people around her during that hospital visit and eventual discharge for keeping her spirits high despite the injury.
“The celebrations are happening now that I’m over it. I still have the pain and still haven’t done the surgery, but now it’s starting to hit me that, you know what, honestly I’d rather have a broken hand than a loss. Now I can enjoy it,” Kirakosian said.
Now, Kirakosian has shifted her focus to recovery and a future title defense. Through her experience leading up to her title fight and what followed, Kirakosian wants to help others smell the roses and appreciate what is in front of them. “I’ve been through a lot of stuff, and that’s what it all comes down to – perspective. Changing your mindset,” she said.
Author information
Jason Takhtadjian
Jason Takhtadjian is a reporter, producer and weekend anchor at KCAU-TV in Sioux City, Iowa. Takhtadjian began college pursuing Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Aerospace until deciding to pursue a sports broadcast career after one semester at the University of Nevada – Las Vegas. While at UNLV, Takhtadjian worked on his own weekly radio show/podcast covering soccer and basketball, produced his own sports debate show, was part of the university’s weekly sports show “The Rebel Report” and was the play-by-play commentator for UNLV men’s and women’s soccer and basketball, to name a few. When the COVID-19 pandemic started, Jason was graduating college and had to pivot to the world of general news to land a job. Three years after accepting a job in the middle of the United States with no Armenian community, Takhtadjian accepted a reporter position at KSEE in Fresno, California. The 26-year-old also worked as a contributor for Armenian Sports News, helping grow the page by thousands of followers in less than a year of work.
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