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Day: May 14, 2024
The Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Sardarabad Gomideh, the Leola Sassouni and Shushi chapters of the Armenian Relief Society, the Nejdeh AYF chapter, the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of Boston, and the Armenian General Athletic Union (Homenetmen) of Boston co-hosted a commemorative event entitled “1915-2024: What Has Changed?” The event was held on April 11 at the Armenian Cultural Foundation in Arlington, Massachusetts, featuring keynote speaker Raffi Hamparian, chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), and performances by the Zanger Children’s Chorus of Boston, a project of the Armenian Culture Connection under the leadership of Dr. Artur Veranian.
The month of April, symbolic of renewal and rebirth across cultures, ironically marks some of history’s darkest events. It witnessed the beginning of the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 1915, with the arrest and subsequent murder of 250 Armenian intellectuals in Constantinople, the start of a systematic annihilation that U.S. Ambassador Henry Morgenthau then described as the “murder of a nation.” Similarly catastrophic, April also marks the anniversaries of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and the Rwandan Genocide, highlighting a recurring theme of profound human suffering during what is typically a time of natural rejuvenation.
As we commemorate the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the memories of past atrocities remain vivid, revealing a chilling parallel with recent events in Artsakh. The continued aggression poses renewed challenges to the Armenian community, which is still grappling with the repercussions of ongoing conflicts that threaten the existence and sovereignty of the Armenian nation. The resilience of Armenians through these trials reflects an enduring spirit, one that gathers not in resignation but in active remembrance and staunch defiance of the erasure of their culture and history.
The ANCA stands at the forefront of this struggle, advocating for the recognition and remembrance of Armenian tragedies and ensuring that history acknowledges and learns from these episodes. As community members and leaders gather to remember and reflect, they are also called to act – ensuring that the resilience of the Armenian spirit informs a collective push towards securing justice and safeguarding the future of their heritage and homeland. This convergence of remembrance and action encapsulates the Armenian community’s unwavering commitment to never forgetting the past and preventing its recurrence, striving for a future where Armenian lives and heritage are respected and preserved.
Hamparian, in his remarks, focused on the theme of not only commemorating the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide but also confronting a contemporary challenge that echoes the sorrows of our past. The gathering marked a solemn occasion to reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our forebears in 1918, which led to the establishment of the First Independent Republic of Armenia – an achievement wrought from unwavering patriotism, determination and profound sacrifices.
He touched upon how we find ourselves grappling with a similar threat today, with the looming planned handover of four Tavush villages to Azerbaijan, threatening to undermine the sovereignty of our beloved homeland. This perilous act has sparked a vigorous response across Armenia, uniting our people in a resounding declaration of defiance against a regime that appears disconnected from the very essence of our national spirit and heritage.
Today, the ARF reiterates its commitment to the values that have sustained our national identity: individual freedom, national self-determination and a harmonious, prosperous society. These are not mere words but the pillars upon which our future must be built, free from the shadows of subjugation and despair.
Our resolve is further fortified by the enduring belief that darkness cannot drive out darkness – only light can. Hate cannot drive out hate – only love can. Today, we choose to stand in that light, propelled by a love for our country that burns fiercely within us – a love that values every human life and the intrinsic worth of our cultural heritage.
Therefore, as we move forward, let us channel the indomitable spirit of our ancestors who, in 1918, faced overwhelming odds yet secured our nation’s sovereignty. We must continue to safeguard our homeland, demand accountability and ensure that our government reflects its people’s will and resilience.
Together, let us pledge to uphold the security, integrity and freedom of Armenia. Let us support and sustain the movements that seek not just to remember the past but to secure a future where our national dignity and territorial integrity are unassailable. Let us be the watchtower of the Armenian cause, ever vigilant and forever steadfast.
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Guest Contributor
Guest contributions to the Armenian Weekly are informative articles or press releases written and submitted by members of the community.
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Franklin, Mass.—After last year’s incredible turnout, AYF Camp Haiastan is thrilled to announce that picnics are officially back! Get ready for a season filled with fun, food and fellowship as the spirit and tradition of the summer picnic make their triumphant return!
2024 SUNDAY SUMMER PICNICS
June 23: Hosted by Providence ARF
July 7: Hosted by St. Stephen’s Armenian Church
July 21: Hosted by the AYF Eastern Region and Camp Haiastan Alumni
Whether you’re a long-time supporter of Camp Haiastan or this is your child’s first summer, our Camp picnics offer the perfect opportunity to reunite with old friends and make new ones, too.
The first two of Camp Haiastan’s annual raffle drawings will take place in person on July 7 and 21. Make sure to secure your chance to win by purchasing a ticket.
Make new memories, take a stroll through camp and enjoy some kebab with your fellow Armenians.
Mark your calendars and come hungry!
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Located in Franklin, Massachusetts, AYF Camp Haiastan, was founded in 1951 and is the oldest Armenian camp in the United States. The Camp prides itself on providing a healthy and safe experience to Armenian-American youth to help them foster their Armenian identity and establish lifelong friendships.
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“At the edge of Rome and the Gates of Persia, the course of empires was changed by the force of arms and the power of faith,” begins the narrative of Roger Kupelian’s passion project, the web series titled Warrior Saints. This series explores how it was not only saints and holy figures but also kings, queens, and warriors who changed the course of religion and empires through key battles and morally difficult decisions.
Teaming up with co-producers Peter Bahlawanian, Vahe Vic Aslanyan and Eli Jarra, Kupelian brought his vision to life. Kristine Kumuryan, who collaborated closely with Kupelian on the development of the narrative, voices the narration for the first two episodes.
Warrior Saints title screen
The webisodes delve into the stories of figures such as the Maccabees, Emperor Constantine and Vartan Mamigonian and highlight pivotal moments in Armenian history, including the battles of Avarayr and the first Artsakh War. Serj Tankian, passionate about the project, has been involved since early in its development, providing music that enhances the series’ emotional depth and historical resonance.
For Kupelian and his team, the project is about more than storytelling; it’s about preserving cultural heritage and honoring those who sacrificed for it. “One of the main reasons for rebirthing and working so hard on this project is to honor the collaborators and artists over the years that lent their time, talent and effort to bringing about this vision,” Kupelian told the Weekly.
Proceeds from the webisodes are donated to the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), reflecting the team’s commitment to giving back to their community.
The webisodes also spotlight the role of women in history, particularly during the early Christian movement, emphasizing themes of empowerment and equality.
Throughout his journey, Kupelian has remained grateful for the support of his collaborators and audience. He emphasizes the importance of collective effort and individual contributions, urging others to engage with their heritage and strive for dignity and self-respect.
Support for the project is encouraged through Patreon subscriptions and engagement with the @WarriorSaintsForever Instagram page. Kupelian’s books can also be found at Abril Bookstore in Glendale, offering further insight into his rich artistic and cultural contributions.
Roger Kupelian, a visual effects artist with over three decades of experience in major Hollywood projects, grew up immersed in Armenian culture and history, deeply influenced by his father’s strong Armenian values. Kupelian’s career spans from contributing to iconic films like The Lord of the Rings Trilogy to directing and co-producing short films and music videos as well as a series of historic graphic novels.
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Talar Keoseyan
Talar Keoseyan is a mother, educator and writer.
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