Armenians Unwilling To Fight, Claims Pashinian azatutyun.am
Day: June 25, 2024
Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan held a telephone conversation with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Tuesday, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said.
They discussed the settlement process between the two countries, as well as the situation in the region.
The same day in Baku, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov received…
Dear friends and colleagues, below is my reflection and summary for @ArmenianWeekly of two papers published by @IISS_org and @cfppr , titled +#Turkey #defense #Bayraktar #Syria #SouthCaucasus #NATO #foreignpolicy #softpower #hardpower.
Link: https://t.co/RKGP6PFMTx pic.twitter.com/btqQBYxdmN— Yeghia Tashjian /يغيا/ Եղիա Թաշճեան 🇱🇧🇦🇲 (@yeghig) June 25, 2024
There is a misconception in our communities regarding how unity manifests itself among Armenians. Many avoid the term for fear that it means a lack of diversity or the prevalence of a singular thought. Others believe that in order for unity to emerge there must be winners and losers. Our inability to compromise with each other gives credence to this school of thought.
Dr. Vartan Gregorian and Edward Avedisian (Photo courtesy of NAASR)
Almost five years ago, the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) opened its new Armenian studies facility in Belmont, Massachusetts. The humble and primary benefactors of the building, the late Edward Avedisian and his wife Pam, insisted that the building not bear their name but rather that of a person of prominence in the field of philanthropy and education. They approached the late Dr. Vartan Gregorian, who graciously accepted the honor. Dr. Gregorian was widely respected for his accomplishments in university education and philanthropic institutions. During the gala banquet that opened the new center, he shared his perspective on his beloved Armenian communities. As a visionary and forward thinker, Dr. Gregorian stated that he believed our best days were ahead of us, because “there is more that unites us than divides us.” It is always a pleasure to be in the midst of such wisdom, but these words resonated deep in my soul.
In one simple phrase, he managed to capture the essence of what hinders us while also paving a path for our success. Dr. Gregorian was not referring to the reunification of the Armenian church or any particular political policy. His comments were directed to the very broad base of the pyramid of our people and the values that will continue to bond our civilization. Why do the fourth or fifth generations born in the diaspora continue to practice their heritage? Why do Armenians in the diaspora seek each other out and continue to evolve with new communities as demographics shift? What drives the emotional identity that sustains who we are? The answers lie in “what unites us.” Our divisions are generally layered above the foundation of our unified values. Differences of opinion on current events are much less important than mutual respect in the long term. We sometimes forget this, but Dr. Gregorian reminded us of this basic truth.
Most activists are problem solvers. They attempt to prevent problems or focus on what is broken and needs to be fixed. Living in the problem solving and prevention world can be exhausting and debilitating. Progress is slow, and often there is a blurred line between problem solving and the perception of negativity. The majority of our tribe would prefer that we simply carry on and not create any controversy. Armenians in the diaspora are socially focused. Interpersonal relationships and community standing are important to most participants. The problem solving world can be risky and threaten social positions. Often problem solvers stand alone when arriving at a crossroads. These are special people, because they are the conscience of the community, but it can be a dark world to always focus on what’s wrong. I find it beneficial and essential for continuity to come up for the fresh air of what unites us. It cleanses our thinking to remember that problem solving can breed disagreements, but our reason to be lies in what unites us.
In this sea of storms, the good news is that many of us may disagree but share a common love. Whether citizens in Armenia, government officials, diaspora benefactors or participants in diaspora community life, what unites us is love for the homeland and a passion for its prosperity.
These are words worth remembering, not simply during good times, but when we are in the heat of the conflict. It would be wise to remember that although we may disagree on the matter at hand, it is quite possible that our hearts are in the same place. Before we let our emotions turn into fuel for damage, we should be cautious about judging others. We may disagree on policy, but forward thinking people will not challenge an individual’s intent or character.
One of the reasons that I admired Dr. Gregorian and carry his quote from that banquet close to my heart is that he was an eternal optimist. Some mistakenly identify optimism as a form of naivety. It has little to do with the stereotypes of “rose-colored glasses” or “not living in reality.” True optimists are forward thinkers who do not burden themselves with past mistakes, pre-judgements and a victim mentality. It is no coincidence that future-oriented strategists such as Gregorian, Nubar Afeyan and Ruben Vardanyan created the Aurora Initiative and several follow-up programs designed to pull us out of our victim mentality, join the world community and focus us on a prosperous Armenia. Optimists believe in our fundamental capabilities, and that belief drives their thinking. It is similar to having faith. Christians do not look for or expect “proof.” Faith is a relationship that resides in our heart. It is not distracted by worldly events. Optimists understand that what unites us will always be greater than what divides us. Otherwise, what is the point of our existence?
Earlier, I mentioned the misconceptions concerning unity. In my view, the greatest attributes of unity are respect, civility and love. It is less about a lack of diversity and more about setting boundaries of disagreeing that do not cross the lines of respect. For example, while I understand that we are all entitled to our opinions, I do not agree that the diaspora has the right to call for regime change in Armenia. This has little to do with the issues being debated but more about the rights of citizens and limits of the diaspora.
Most of the conflict today is in the political arena. Politics has always been a breeding ground for disagreements. Whether in our living rooms, coffee shops or the halls of legislatures, politics can be a rough neighborhood. Many Americans lament the lack of civility and respect that has been the recent hallmark of the U.S. Congress. Retirements are increasing as some in service become disillusioned with the inability to find common ground and produce solutions to critical issues. Finding what unites us and putting it into practice will initiate the recovery of our Congress. Compromise and civility are best practiced when the distance between partisans is smaller. As extremes assert their control, it becomes more difficult to find common ground. I would hope that reasonable people will eventually emerge who demonstrate Dr. Gregorian’s advice.
I have found that things are never as good as some advocate nor as bad as the gloom others pronounce. These “filtered” comments have a great deal to do with one’s position in political circles. I remember, years ago, meeting a member of the opposition during the administration of former Armenian President Serge Sargysyan. There was a reception here in the United States. I made the mistake of introducing her as a member of the government, and she quickly corrected me that she was not part of the government. She was merely stating that a member of the opposition in parliament is not part of the government, which is defined as the ruling party. I told her that in this country, if you are a member of Congress, you are considered part of the legislative branch of government. I urged her to find common ground. It was during that time that opposition parties in the U.S. Congress became more obstructionist in trying to neutralize the ruling party. It matters little today which party is in control. The minority party spends more time preventing than collaborating. What unites Americans today? Focusing on what divides us has led to dysfunction in the U.S. Congress.
Is our glass half empty or half full? If we choose to exacerbate our divisions, then the glass is half empty and losing liquid. I believe our people can build trust and prosperity by empowering what unites us. I worked for a company years ago that was suffering from internal conflict. We invested considerable time with some talented consultants to focus on what we had in common and what had been a unifying mission. Not only did this lead to improvement in functional performance, but we discovered that what divided us was less significant when put in the context of the unifying mission.
The diaspora has incredible value to add to the prosperity of the homeland. The true value of that capability can best be nurtured in an environment focused on what unites us as a people, a culture and a civilization. The diaspora can and must do better. Urging western politicians to support “a right to return to Artsakh with security guarantees” lacks any substance. These same foreign governments did absolutely nothing while our brethren were being starved during the blockade. Who would provide security guarantees for an area that has been depopulated? What Armenian would live under those conditions? This is not focusing on what unites us. Listening to American politicians expound rhetoric on Artsakh adds to the humiliation. It is difficult. We are mourning the losses as our grandparents did over 100 years ago, but we must be strong. During these times of challenge, I offer the words of the late Dr. Gregorian to inspire us.
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Stepan Piligian
Columnist
Stepan was raised in the Armenian community of Indian Orchard, MA at the St. Gregory Parish. A former member of the AYF Central Executive and the Eastern Prelacy Executive Council, he also served many years as a delegate to the Eastern Diocesan Assembly. Currently , he serves as a member of the board and executive committee of the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR). He also serves on the board of the Armenian Heritage Foundation. Stepan is a retired executive in the computer storage industry and resides in the Boston area with his wife Susan. He has spent many years as a volunteer teacher of Armenian history and contemporary issues to the young generation and adults at schools, camps and churches. His interests include the Armenian diaspora, Armenia, sports and reading.
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Hamazkayin’s 95th anniversary celebratory festivities originally began on December 2, 2023, in Chicago, where the Central Eastern Region executive and Hamazkayin of Chicago’s executive hosted a spectacular event. The celebration featured Canadian composer, pianist and Grammy nominee Serouj Kradjian alongside the vibrant performances of the Hamazkayin Sardarabad Dance group.
From April 11 to 17, 2024, the Hamazkayin Eastern Region chapters organized a series of events featuring the esteemed chairman of the Hamazkayin Central Committee Zakar Keshishian. Invited from Lebanon, Keshishian graced both the Eastern and Western Region anniversary celebrations with his presence.
Providence Hamazkayin honoree Maggy Madarentz (center with flowers) pictured alongside her artwork with (l-r) Berge Zobian, Greg Arzoomanian, Sarkis Minassian, John Mkrtschjan, Tigranouhi Minassian, Hamazkayin Central Executive chairman Zakar Keshishian, Taline Mkrtschjan, Galin Tashian and Hagop Khatchadourian
From Washington, D.C. to New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Providence and Boston, the series of celebrations showcased Hamazkayin’s vibrant national and cultural spirit, uniting friends and communities across all Eastern Region chapters.
Under the powerful motto “With Light, Toward the Light” (Լոյսով՝ Լույսին) and through Keshishian’s captivating keynote address and compelling storytelling, the imperative of living in Armenian and embracing Armenian culture was vividly highlighted.
“Being born an Armenian is destiny. Staying Armenian is a choice,” Keshishian said. He went on to say that choosing to remain Armenian is the first step toward meaningful participation and contribution to the nationalistic values of life. It is the gateway to deeply connecting with the Armenian culture and way of life. This journey begins with learning, mastering and embracing the Armenian language as one’s mother tongue.
Hamazkayin, the 95-year-old “old but not old” organization, has an important role in making Armenian life and culture accessible to diasporan communities and bridging the diaspora with Mother Armenia. In this regard, Keshishian affirmed that Hamazkayin will continue to focus on preserving the values created over the course of 95 years, involving the youth in the work of the organization and training teachers, group leaders, choreographers and directors to support Hamazkayin’s educational mission.
During his visit to the Eastern Region, Keshishian had the opportunity to get to know the structures of the community.
Hamazkayin’s honorary award (շքանշան) was presented to the following individuals who have dedicated themselves and provided long-term service to the establishment of the Hamazkayin Eastern Region of America and the spread of Armenian culture: Ani Aghajanian, Vazken Ayvazian, Sirun Garoian, Mariet Kaprielian, Maggie Madarents, Armine Minasian, the late Dr. Janet Mouradian-Markarian and Alfred Yeznaian. Additionally, poetess Vehanoush Tekian was honored for her extensive contributions to public, cultural and especially literary fields.
Washington, D.C.
On April 11, 2024, the Washington, D.C. chapter of Hamazkayin celebrated the 95th anniversary of its founding, with the presence of chairman Keshishian, who was invited specifically for this occasion.
The Hamazkayin Central Executive chair’s visit to Washington, D.C. commenced with a significant first stop at the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) office. The visit included the Eastern Regional Executive Board member Dr. Aline Baghdassarian, ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian, ANCA Communications Director Yeghisapet Chouldjian, Washington, D.C. chapter chairperson Tereza Yerimyan and ARF Sebouh Gomideh chair Krikor Mossesian.
During his visit, Keshishian was informed about the crucial work carried out by the ANCA and the challenges encountered. The discussions emphasized the importance of responding to the anti-Armenian propaganda taking place in the region, whereby the recent Hamazkayin publications were highlighted as a critical tool to be utilized. In addition, all present recognized the dire necessity of teaching the Armenian language and history to our youth, be they Armenian speaking or not, and finding ways for them to achieve fluency in thought as well as speech. All agreed that Hamazkayin has an important role in taking on this initiative and ultimately succeeding.
Pictured in the front row (l-r): Dr. Meghri Sarkissian, Pardi Maradian, Pastor of Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church Rev. Fr. Sarkis Akatvoukian, Hamazkayin Central Executive Board chairman Zakar Keshishian, Tereza Yerimyan, Kayane Tatarian, Hamazkayin Eastern Regional Executive Board member Dr. Aline Baghdassarian and Dr. Alis Asadurian
Keshishian then visited Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church where he met with Rev. Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian. Afterwards, he met with the young members of the Hamazkayin D.C. Van Dance Ensemble. He shared his experiences in Artsakh with the young audience and emphasized that “being Armenian is fate, but remaining Armenian is a choice.” He urged them to always be proud of their Armenian heritage and to protect their identity. The dancers were thrilled to hear Keshishian’s shvi performance of “Erzrumi Shoror.” During his meeting with the dancers, Keshishian revealed the newly-chosen motto of Hamazkayin: “With Light, Toward the Light.”
In the evening, Keshishian attended a celebration program, held in the church’s Arabian Hall. Rev. Fr. Aktavoukian was joined by representatives of Armenian organizations in the greater Washington area, as well as the representative of Artsakh to the United States Robert Avetisyan and members and friends of Hamazkayin. Kayane Tatarian, vice-chair of the Washington, D.C. chapter and the mistress of ceremonies, welcomed the attendees and asked for a moment of silence in memory of all who lost their lives defending our nation. She then highlighted the imperative to center Armenian values, church and education, which are the pillars of our existence.
Attendees during the national anthem. Pictured in the first row (l-r): Rev. Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian, Artsakh’s Permanent Representative H.E. Robert Avetisyan, ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian, Hamazkayin Central Executive Board chairman Zakar Keshishian, Hamazkayin Eastern Regional Executive Board member Dr. Aline Baghdassarian and Hamazkayin Washington D.C. vice-chair Kayane Tatarian; second row (from the right): Dr. Meghri Sarkissian and Pardi Maradian, secretaries of the Hamazkayin Washington D.C. chapter
Eastern Region representative Dr. Baghdassarian remembered the survivors of the Armenian Genocide who relentlessly taught the Armenian alphabet to their children in the dire conditions of the deserts and spared no efforts to ensure the next generation spoke fluent Armenian. She encouraged attendees to be shielded with their Armenian identity. She then welcomed Keshishian to the stage as the keynote speaker.
In his remarks, Keshishian drew a parallel between the present day and the conditions of the founding of the organization. Despite the many challenges following World War I, founders of the organization had a clear vision to establish Hamazkayin in the pursuit of preserving and nourishing the Armenian language and culture. First, Keshishian remembered the devoted members of the organization who dedicated their lives to the mission of the organization. Second, he extended heartfelt gratitude to the donors, thanks to whom Hamazkayin was able to build the infrastructure of schools where multiple generations were nurtured and received top quality Armenian education.
Keshishian stated that the Armenian Genocide has not ended yet. The Armenian language is endangered, and this is the consequence of not only the Genocide but has a suicidal component to it. “Maintaining the language is our responsibility. If being born Armenian is a matter of fate, remaining Armenian is one of a personal decision. Whoever wishes to do so, can choose to learn and speak Armenian,” he said. He further emphasized that as we move towards the centennial of Hamazkayin, we should attract the youth and prepare educators, conductors, choreographers and directors. The Central Executive Board has already started implementing different activities aimed towards achieving these objectives.
The celebration included beautiful musical performances by Lilia and Alexandra Yeralian, who masterfully played the enchanting Armenian qanun, and Haig and Victoria Penennian on violin. Sune Hamparian then recited the poem “We are few, but we are Armenian” by Baruyr Sevak. The Hamazkayin D.C. Van Dance Ensemble performed two dances taught by Manoug Habibian and Kayane Tatarian.
The chapter presented a short video of photographs by freelance photographer Davit Ghahramanyan, who took photos of the 44-day Artsakh War, and his new book compiling these photographs.
The event concluded with an insightful panel discussion about Artsakh through different lenses and how to preserve its ancient cultural heritage. Esteemed panelists were Avetisyan, Hamparian and Keshishian.
Past and present members of the Washington D.C. executive board, along with Hamazkayin Central Executive Board chairman Zakar Keshishian and Hamazkayin Eastern Regional Executive Board member Dr. Aline Baghdassarian cutting the 95th anniversary cake. From the left: Kayane Tatarian, Pardia Maradian, Dr. Meghri Sarkissian, Dr.Aline Baghdassarian, Zakar Keshishian, Odet Zakarian, Maggie Simonian, Arax Khachikian, Mirra Dersookian, Emma Soghomonian. Dr. Alis Asadurian and Tereza Yerimyan
At the end of the event, members and friends were filled with commitment as Keshishian said, “We still haven’t accepted losing Mush, Sassoun, Van and Musa Dagh…similarly, we should not accept having lost Artsakh and Shushi.”
This event’s theme was “Zartonk” and concluded with cutting the cake and pledging to revive all that is Armenian in their lives and to move towards the centennial with resolve.
New Jersey/New York
The Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society marked a significant milestone on Saturday, April 13, 2024, as it celebrated its 95th anniversary at the residence of Dr. Ara and Mrs. Ani Mouradian in Denville, New Jersey. The event was organized by the Hamazkayin New York and New Jersey chapters and graced by the esteemed presence of chairman Keshishian. In attendance were Hamazkayin Central Executive Board member Arevig Caprielian and Eastern Regional Executive Board members Hasmig Aprahamian and Vartivar Keshishian.
The New Jersey and New York Hamazkayin chapters hold a joint celebration on the occasion of the 95th anniversary of Hamazkayin at the residence of Dr. Ara and Mrs. Ani Mouradian of Denville, New Jersey.
Opening the proceedings, Hamazkayin of New Jersey chairperson Floria Kasparian extended warm congratulations on behalf of the organization, acknowledging 95 years of dedication and hard work by the Hamazkayin world-wide branches. She outlined the evening’s program, which aimed to honor the dedicated members and supporters who have contributed to the organization’s endeavors over the decades. Kasparian went on to express heartfelt gratitude to the Mouradian family for graciously opening their home to host the celebration, emphasizing the significance of coming together as a community.
The evening commenced with an invocation and blessing delivered by pastor of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian and Very Rev. Fr. Sahag Yemishian, vicar of the Prelacy and pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church, representing His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, prelate.
In his keynote address, Keshishian highlighted the significance of Hamazkayin’s flag, recently blessed by His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia. He also announced the newly-adopted motto: “With Light, Toward the Light” (Լոյսով՝ Լույսին). One of the founders of today’s Hamazkayin, Levon Shant, suggested founding the “Louys” (Light) cultural-educational association. Hamazkayin’s ninth convention, held in Yerevan in May 2022, resolved that the Central Executive Board must create a flag, a motto and an anthem for the organization.
Keshishian also underscored the role of Armenian education, citing the establishment of the Ministry of Education and Culture in the First Republic of Armenia, and emphasized the importance of fostering cultural enlightenment and teaching the Armenian language in the Diaspora.
“Last year, Hamazkayin unveiled its first flag. Please replace all the unofficial flags your chapters might have previously used,” stated Keshishian. “Hamazkayin embodies the essence of ‘With Light, Toward the Light,’ indicating the metaphor of light as learning, knowledge, education and culture.” He invoked the involvement of one of its esteemed founders, a former Minister of Education, whose vision infused the organization with a commitment to education and culture. Furthermore, Levon Shant envisioned “Louys Miootyoun,” advocating for a comprehensive educational approach across all domains, particularly including the establishment of educational institutions.
Keshishian stressed the importance of rejuvenation of chapters in general, and particularly in the Eastern United States. He also recounted the financial difficulties caused by the Lebanese failed banking system and encouraged generously supporting Hamazkayin Central Executive’s important projects and programs.
Keshishian also expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support and dedication of the society’s members and patrons. In recognition of their invaluable service and contributions, he presented the medal of the Hamazkayin Central Executive (Շքանշան) to six respected honorees for their outstanding contributions, expressing deep gratitude for their role in preserving Armenian culture and heritage. The six honorees were: Armine Minassian (New York), Marietta Gabrelian (New York), Janet Mouradian-Markarian (posthumous, New York), Siroun Garoyan (New Jersey) and Alfred Yeznaian (New Jersey). Poet and writer Vehanoush Tekian was awarded the medal for her lifelong dedication and significant contributions to Armenian literature. The recipients delivered heartfelt remarks, expressing gratitude to the organization and acknowledging the invaluable support they received during their journeys of hard work and dedication.
The celebratory program was filled with captivating artistic performances and enlightening presentations, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and educational pursuits that lie at the heart of the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society. Attendees were treated to a vibrant showcase of music, dance and recitation. In addition, all those present enjoyed insightful discussions throughout the evening. The enduring legacy and spirit of the organization was ever present.
Hamazkayin member and Nayiri Dance Ensemble member Tvene Baronian delivered a captivating artistic performance with her rendition of “Ari Im Sokhag.” Following Baronian’s performance, Sarhad Melkonyan, also a member of Nayiri Dance Ensemble, presented a recitation of the poem “Yerk Azadoutyan” by Mikael Nalbandian. Continuing the evening’s talent showcase of, Nayiri Dance Ensemble member Jero Mouradian enthralled the audience on piano with “Elegy” by Arno Babajanian. Additionally, Keshishian enriched the evening with his musical prowess, playing both the Armenian musical instrument “shvi” (reed) and the piano, while guests joyfully joined in song. Bringing the evening to a memorable close, dancers from the Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble performed a series of captivating dance numbers.
The 95th anniversary celebration not only commemorated nearly a century of cultural preservation and educational advancement but also served as a testament to the enduring commitment of the Armenian community to uphold and promote their heritage.
As the evening unfolded with moments of reflection, camaraderie and cultural enrichment, it reaffirmed the pivotal role that organizations like Hamazkayin play in fostering Armenian education and culture in unity and pride within the Armenian diaspora.
With the success of this landmark event, the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society looks forward to continuing its mission of promoting Armenian culture, education and community engagement for generations to come. For more information about the Society and its upcoming events, visit hamazkayin-usa.org.
Philadelphia
The Philadelphia chapter of the Hamazkayin Educational and Cultural Society, under the auspices of the Hamazkayin of USA Eastern Regional Board, commemorated the organization’s 95th anniversary on Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Founders Hall of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church of Philadelphia. During this jubilee year, at the invitation of the Eastern Regional Board, chairman Keshishian traveled from Lebanon to visit Hamazkayin chapters throughout the region. Accompanying Keshishian to Philadelphia were Hamazkayin Central Executive Committee member Arevig Caprielian and Hamazkayin Eastern Regional Executive Committee chairwoman Hasmig Aprahamian.
Attendees of the celebration sing our national anthem led by the Akhtamar Choral Group
Also present were invited guests Archpriest Fr. Daron Stepanyan, visiting pastor from St. Paul’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Wisconsin; Rev. Asadour Minassian, pastor of St. Mark’s Armenian Catholic Church in Philadelphia, and Yeretsgin Arpi Minassian; Sister Emma Moussayan, principal of the Armenian Sisters Academy, and Sister Kayane Taslakian; Nayiri Balanian, secretary of the ARS Central Executive Board; and Caroline Chamavonian, chairman of the ARS Eastern Regional Executive Board. After Archpriest Fr. Stepanyan gave the opening prayer, Lorig Baronian, chair of the Philadelphia Hamazkayin chapter, invited Caprielian to present the book “Artsakh Unfinished War.” During her presentation, Caprielian impressed upon audience members the importance of this Hamazkayin publication as a photographic testament to historic facts, especially considering the present situation in Artsakh.
Following the book presentation, attendees enjoyed performances by two young artists. Pianist Nazani Baronian played the Rondo movement from Beethoven’s Pathétique Sonata, and Lorig Kolev recited Moushegh Ishkhan’s “Hye Lezoon.” The cultural portion of the program ended with a rendition of “Ari Im Sokhag” by the Akhtamar Choral Group and a performance of “Papouri” by the Meghry Dance Ensemble.
Zakar Keshishian presents Anny Aghajanian with the Hamazkayin Medal of Honor
Anny Aghajanian, secretary of the Philadelphia Hamazkayin Chapter, introduced Keshishian as the keynote speaker. Keshishian congratulated the performers and the Philadelphia chapter for their work. He spoke passionately about the importance of Hamazkayin and its vital role in preserving Armenian culture and the Armenian language, especially Western Armenian.
After Keshishian’s speech, Philadelphia chapter founding member Vartouhi Koumrigian gave a heartfelt and personal introduction of Aghajanian, who received the Hamazkayin Medal of Honor from Keshishian. Aghajanian thanked all present, especially the Philadelphia chapter, of which she is a long-time member, and the Hamazkayin Central Executive Board.
The afternoon program was followed by a sweet table reception.
Boston
On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, Keshishian continued his tour of Eastern Region chapters with a short visit to the Boston community.
Keshishian, escorted by Boston Hamazkayin chapter chairman Vazrik Chiloyan, visited the various organizational offices located in the Hairenik building in Watertown. He received a personal tour of the ARF archives by George Aghjayan, who showed Keshishian the original 1918 Declaration of Independence of the Armenian Republic.
In the evening, the Boston Hamazkayin chapter held an event at the Papken Suni Agoump in Watertown. The program included presentations of books published by Hamazkayin. In honor of Keshishian’s background in music, the chapter presented a surprise performance by the newly-formed Hamazkayin Boston Chamber Choir, under the direction of Maestro Artur Veranian. Keshishian was delighted with the performance and even sang along with one of the pieces.
In his keynote speech, Keshishian emphasized the importance of duty and serving the community through membership in Hamazkayin. He urged those who are members of Hamazkayin performance groups to continue and to serve as members of the Hamazkayin organization. He encouraged all present by sharing anecdotes from his own life journey toward membership in Hamazkayin.
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The Eastern USA region of Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society, consisting of nine chapters, constitutes one of the branches of the worldwide Hamazkayin family, founded in 1928.
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