California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Non-Profit and Armenian Students Organization U.S. Postage 5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PAID Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Permit No. 262 Change Service Requested FRESNO, CA HYE SHARZHOOM Armenian Action th FA| Photo: Randy Vaughn-Dotta Tamar Boyajian (Michigan State Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian University), Marc Mamigonian Staff Report (NAASR), and Jean Murachanian (University of New England). The Society for Armenian On behalf of the SAS Studies (SAS) celebrated its newly elected President Der 40th anniversary at its Annual Mugrdechian thanked outgoing Membership meeting held in See SAS Page 7 Evelyn Sahroian Tregoning Bequest of $100,000 to Armenian Studies Staff Report Armenian Studies Program Coordinator Barlow Der Construction of the Armenian Genocide Monument at Fresno State is well under way with Mugrdechian announced a gift of completion of the Monument slated for mid-April. Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian $100,000 from the estate of the Aramayis Orkusyan marks a symbolic cornerstone this important year, and those late Evelyn Sahroian Tregoning Staff Writer for the Armenian people as they who attended the Khachaturian that will establish the Tregoning prepare to commemorate the Trio concert at Fresno State Endowment in Armenian Studies. Each year on April 24, 100th anniversary of what has last November have already Evelyn Sahroian Tregoning Armenians around the world been called “The first modern become acquainted with one of was born on September 30, 1923 commemorate the memory of genocide of the 20th century.” the many worldwide initiatives and passed away on June 1, 2014. Archive Photo: ASP the victims of the Armenian Many events are taking place Evelyn Sahroian Tregoning She was born to an Armenian Genocide. This year, however, worldwide to commemorate See Monument page 8 immigrant family in the farming in school. area of Sanger, near Fresno, and After graduating Mrs. Leon Peters Foundation Grant of $30,000 to ASP for 2015 she was always eager for more Staff Report This continues the tradition of the Leon S. Peters was respected education, apparent by her studies See tregoning Page 6 Peters Foundation in supporting as a businessman, civic leader, Armenian Studies Program the Armenian Studies Program and philanthropist who lived and Dr. Douzjian Gives First in Series of Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der Annual Lecture Series, as well worked according to the highest Kazan Visiting Professor Lectures Mugrdechian announced that as a variety of other activities, ethical standards. He cherished the Leon S. Peters Foundation including scholarships, outreach his community and considered has made a generous donation of activities, an Armenia summer its well being his personal $30,000 to the Armenian Studies study trip, and general support for responsibility. Program at Fresno State for 2015. the Program. See Peters Page 3 La Porta Selected for “Fresno State Talks” Series Marine Vardanyan Editor 2015 marks the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Why should you care? According to Dr. Sergio La Porta, Berberian Professor of Armenian Studies at Fresno State, the Armenian Genocide “is very much tied up with who we are today and Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian the whole notion of modernity.” Left to right: Bako Oganyan, Dr. Myrna Douzjian, ASO Presi- On Thursday, February 26, Dr. dent Marine Vardanyan, and Tatevik Hovhannisyan. La Porta explored the role of the Lauren Chardukian Myrna Douzjian as the 11th Armenian Genocide in shaping Staff Writer Kazan Visiting Professor in modern-day civilization at the Armenian Studies at Fresno State. Fresno State lecture series known as “Fresno State Talks.” Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian This semester, the Armenian As part of her responsibilities as Left to right: Fresno State Provost Dr. Lynette Zelezny, Dr. Studies Program welcomed Dr. See Douzjian Page 7 See La Porta Page 8 Robert Maldonado, and Dr. Sergio La Porta. 2 Hye Sharzhoom March 2015 Armenian Studies Program California State University, Fresno Book/Video/CD Archival Gifts Armenian Studies Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La Porta, and the Armenian Studies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, Fall 2015 Schedule of Courses and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor Jacqueline Agazarian, Fresno, for copies of the journal Raft and General Education-Breadth, Humanities, Area C2 Armenian books. • Arm 1A-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B Der Mugrdechian Edward Ashjian, Fresno, for a DVD and photos of the groundbreaking (Class #72240) of the Armenian Genocide Monument at Fresno State, November • Arm 2A-Intermed. Armenian 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh B Der Mugrdechian 2, 2014. Marguerite and Andre Biklian, Bakersfield, for a selection of (Class #75855) Armenian records. General Education-Breadth, Arts, Area C1 Bishop Moushegh Babayan, Holy See of Etchmiadzin, for two books: • ArmS 20-Arts of Armenia 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B Der Mugrdechian Hayots Tseghaspanutyun yev Haykakan Harts (The Armenian (Class #74036) Genocide and the Armenian Question) by Avag Harutyunyan General Education-Breadth, Area D3 (Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, 2014), 558pp., in Armenian, Russian, and English, a valuable bibliography of more than • ArmS 10-Intro Arm Studies 3 12:00P-12:50P MWF Staff 3,000 books written between 1860-2010 and a copy of Haykakan (Class #72241) Azgayin Khorhrdanshanner (Armenian National Medals) by Hayk • ArmS 10-Intro Arm Studies 3 8:00A-9:15A TuTh Staff Demoyan (Yerevan, 2012), 465pp., in Armenian, an illustrated (Class #75843) book that covers the history of military medals, flags, and symbols General Education-Integration, Area IC used by the Armenians over a wide period of time. Center for Armenian Remembrance, www.centerar.org, for five • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 2:00P-3:15P MW S. La Porta books: The Case of Soghomon Tehlerian (Glendale, CA, 2006) (Class #75793) by Vartkes Yeghiayan, 2nd edition, 223 pp.; British Reports on • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 3:30P-4:45P MW S. La Porta Ethnic Cleansing in Anatolia, 1919-1922: The Armenian-Greek (Class #75854) Section, compiled by Vartkes Yeghiayan, 296pp. (Glendale, CA, Upper Division Armenian Studies Courses 2007); Pro-Armenia: Jewish Responses to the Armenian Genocide by Vartkes Yeghiayan (Glendale, CA, 2011), 2669pp. in English, • ArmS 108A-Arm History I 3 3:30P-4:45P TuTh S. La Porta a collection of the writings on the Genocide by Jewish diplomats, (Class #72242) intelligence operatives, and members of the human rights New Course-Upper Division movement; Vahan Cardashian: Advocate Extraordinaire for • ArmS 120T-Armenian Question 3 4:00P-6:50P W Kazan Visiting Prof. the Armenian Cause compiled by Vartkes Yeghiayan (Glendale, (Class #75842) CA, 2008), 353pp., in English; Raphael Lemkin’s Dossier on the Armenian Genocide by Vartkes Yeghiayan (Glendale, CA, 2008), 158pp., in English. Patricia De Fury, Fresno, for a copy of her great-uncle Mugerdich HYE SHARZHOOM Gulian’s biography, “The Long Road from Samsun: An Armenian Saga,” written by her uncle Richard Vartian. Hrant Dink Foundation, Istanbul, Turkey, for a copy of their 2015 FA| Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian minute for meaningless death.” Staff Report Syrian population of 3,000,000. Left to right: Michael Rettig, Marina Chardukian, Tatevik Both Bujicanian and Lulejian In both countries, Armenians, as Hovhannisyan, Lauren Chardukian, and Bako Oganyan with were killed during the Genocide, The rapidly diminishing other minorities, were recognized Dr. Vahé Tachjian, center, after the January 29 lecture. but their thoughts live on through Armenian Christian community based on their ethno-religious their writings. of Syria, and the still strong background. Michael Rettig Lulejian and Hovhannes Dr. Tachjian collects such Armenian community of Dr. Sanjian’s lecture gave taff riter S W Bujicanian. Their articles, letters, writings for his website, titled Lebanon was the focus of a insight as to the status of the and other publications were “Houshamadyan: A Project to lecture, “Armenians in the Midst Armenian communities in each It has been difficult for preserved and later published Reconstruct Ottoman Armenian of Civil Wars: Lebanon and country and how the decisions historians to reconstruct the by their families, making them Town and Village Life” (http:// Syria Compared,” by Dr. Ara that each community made daily lives of Armenians prior to available for study. As Dr. www.houshamadyan.org). He Sanjian, Director of the Armenian shaped their status within the the Genocide. Those who lived Tachjian noted, “These sources believes that “despite the wealth Research Center at the University respective countries. before 1915 could not conceive open up a wide vista on the of materials written in Armenian, of Michigan-Dearborn, on During the past several that their entire way of life was cultural, economic, political, the perspective of Armenian Tuesday, December 2, 2014. decades both Lebanon and Syria on the brink of extinction. Many social, and even personal events authors on their own issues and The lecture was part of the have undergone upheavals. of them felt no need to document in the region.” daily life is not represented.” This Fall Armenian Studies Program During the Lebanese Civil War of their day-to-day lives, most Focusing on Kharpert was website is meant to give voice Lecture Series, funded in part by 1975-1990, Armenians adopted likely imagining that they would fitting for this lecture, considering to Armenian primary sources the Leon S. Peters Foundation. the policy of positive neutrality. go on in the same fashion for the sizeable population of and better describe what their Dr. Sanjian began his Most Armenians in Lebanon and generations to come. Those who Armenians from Kharpert living lives were like. He concluded presentation with an overview Syria today think that this was a did write were often among the in Fresno. The community his lecture with a guided tour of of the Armenians in Lebanon wise choice and that it helped to first to be targeted by the Turkish demonstrated their interest in the site, which includes pictures, and Syria. Tens of thousands of minimize somewhat the heavy government, which subsequently this topic by attending in large articles, videos, maps, and more, Armenian Genocide survivors toll of civil war for the Armenian arrested and killed many of the numbers. Among the audience for the purpose of reconstructing found refuge in Lebanon after community in Lebanon. Armenian intellectuals. Much was was the former Associate the lives of Armenians before World War I and by 1928 about The situation for the Armenians lost during these years, making it Justice of the Supreme Court of the Genocide. Visitors to the 33,000 Armenians had settled in Syria in 2011 was more hard for historians to reconstruct California, Marvin Baxter, who website are able to find different there. By 1940 the Armenians difficult than for their brethren in the lives of Armenians living in contributed an article about his cities in Armenia and easily learn constituted about 4.5% of the Lebanon in 1975. One factor was Turkey. ancestors to the Houshamadyan more about the regions various total population and later in 1944 that the Armenian population of Dr. Vahe Tachjian, director of website. characteristics; such as religion, the percentage of the Armenian Syria had declined over the same the “Houshamadyan Project,” has Kharpert was known for sports, and economy. Dr. Tachjian had risen to over 6%. period, while in Lebanon the made it his life’s work to piece being the center of education led the audience to the “sports” By comparison, there were Armenian population had steadily together what life was like for the and enlightenment for the section of the website, which some 100,000 Armenians living grown. The Encyclopedia of Armenians living in the Ottoman Armenian people. The Protestant had descriptions and pictures of within the boundaries of Syria in the Armenian Diaspora put the Empire using primary sources. missionaries greatly contributed various games and activities that 1938. After Syria’s independence numbers of Armenians in Syria “I seek to show the inescapable to this reputation by establishing Armenian kids played. from France, Armenians See Sanjian page 7 value of Armenian sources to the Euphrates College in 1878, Houshamadyan.org relies on constituted about 4% of the total study Ottoman Armenians and from which both Hovhannes researchers, such as Dr. Tachjian the Ottoman Empire in general. Bujicanian and Donabed Lulejian and his colleagues, to consolidate Armenians on the Internet The use and study of Armenian graduated. The Euphrates College primary sources with the purpose Tatevik Hovhannisyan primary sources has for a long became a stepping stone for of giving the visitor a glimpse Staff Writer time been the missing link in many Armenians to further their at what life was like in Historic Ottoman studies.” education in Europe. Bujicanian Armenia before the Genocide. http://armenia.am/ In his lecture “Building was able to study philosophy in This is an important resource for the Model Ottoman Citizen,” Edinburgh and return to Armenia Armenians to discover what life Armenia.am has the answer to all your questions about the modern presented at Fresno State on to teach while Lulejian was might have been like for their Republic of Armenia. Learning basic information about Armenia Thursday, January 29, Dr. able to pursue his education in ancestors. Old Armenian games is essential for Armenians and non-Armenians who would like to Tachjian presented his research America. and histories are resurrected and plan a trip there for the first time. Clear, user-friendly, and rich with on daily life in Kharpert, based Dr. Tachjian recounted the made available after having been information, this website is guaranteed to become your favorite friend on the writings of two notable calm before the storm, as the tragically forgotten after the during your virtual and actual visit to the Republic of Armenia. figures from the region: Donabed Young Turks came to power with Genocide. This unique website is loaded with information. Categories that are open to exploration include the official web sites for the Mother See of Bertha & John Garabedian Foundation Award of Holy Etchmiadzin, the Armenian Development Agency, the Ministry $11,000 to Armenian Studies Program for 2015 of Foreign Affair of the Republic of Armenia, the official web site of Yerevan and many others that give details about the important aspects Staff Report The Garabedian Foundation have supported the development of the country. has been a long-standing of the Armenian Studies Program The Governance category takes the visitors to the sub-categories that Armenian Studies Program supporter of the Armenian website and the online Arts of provide all the information one needs to learn about the government Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der Studies Program. Their grants Armenia. of Armenia. This category is useful for those who are interested in Mugrdechian announced that Peters, From Page 1 giving to higher education, researching the political and judicial aspects of the Republic, along the Bertha and John Garabedian Leon Peters and his brother, hospitals, and arts organizations. with learning about the relationship between its allies and its treaties. Foundation has made a generous Pete Peters, established Valley Since the early 1980s, the A Travel category exists to provide browsers helpful insight for donation of $11,000 to the Foundry and Machine Works, Peters family has provided planning their vacation in Armenia. Information about visas, airports, Armenian Studies Program a world-recognized supplier of numerous gifts to Fresno State tourist sites, hotels and entertainment are all offered by the website. for 2015. This brings the total agricultural equipment, and it including the Pete P. Peters Other important categories include the economy, education, and donations from the Foundation to became one of the region’s most Endowment in Armenian Studies, culture. The most useful link that is connected with Armenia.am is the Armenian Studies Program to successful businesses, allowing the President’s Fund, Ag One an informational system called Spyur.am. This is the yellow pages of over $100,000. them to start the foundation in Foundation, the Henry Madden Armenia, providing statistics, directory, and information for different The gift will be used for a 1959. Library, the Bulldog Foundation, companies and businesses in Armenia. variety of activities, including Since then, the Peters the Leon S. Peters Honors Offered in English, Russian, and Armenian, armenia.am has a lot to outreach activities and Foundation has become one of the Scholars, and the Business explore. The portal connects visitors to different official and interesting scholarships. community’s biggest benefactors, Associates Program. web sites, making it easier to research a visit to Armenia. 4 Hye Sharzhoom March 2015 Basketball Legend Jerry Tarkanian Passes Away Armenian Studies Conference on Staff Report “I should look into becoming a barber.” Armenian Genocide at Northridge Famed basketball coach Jerry But his mother encouraged him Tarkanian passed away at age 84 and he went on to play basketball on Wednesday, February 11, at a for Fresno State, graduating in Las Vegas-area hospital with his 1955. He coached high school family by his side. and junior college basketball in He is survived by his wife, California before becoming Long Lois, four children and seven Beach State’s coach in 1968. grandchildren. Tarkanian, who was inducted Tarkanian was born on Aug. into the Naismith Memorial 8, 1930, in Euclid, Ohio. His Basketball Hall of Fame in mother, Rosie, was a refugee September 2013, coached for the from the genocide of Armenians Fresno State Bulldogs from 1995- growing out of World War I. In Archive Photo: ASP 2002. his taped Hall of Fame induction Jerry Tarkanian “Jerry Tarkanian was a great speech, Tarkanian said his mother He was 13 when his father coach, mentor and citizen in had “fled her homeland on died, and his stepfather criticized the Central Valley. Mary and horseback with only the clothes his love of sports. “I would never I enjoyed visiting with him at on her back after her father and amount to anything — so much Bulldog games, including when Scholars from the California State University, Northridge eldest brother were beheaded by was sports all the time,” Tarkanian See Tarkanian page 5 conference on the Armenian Genocide. Turkish soldiers.” recalled his stepfather saying. Photo: ASP Archive Author Matthew Karanian Presents New Book on Staff Report Armenians’ of Turkey”; Dr. Elyse Semerdjian, “‘The Girl with the Historic Armenia after 100 Years to Community On Saturday, January 31, Cross Tattoo’: Field Notes on the Armenian Studies Program Crypto-Armenians”; and Dr. depicted by a multitude of at California State University, Vahram Shemmassian, “The Fate scattered rocks. Northridge (CSUN) hosted a one- of Captive Armenian Genocide Karanian’s photos not only day conference on “The Armenian Survivors in Syria.” captured the surviving Armenian Genocide: Accounting and The fourth panel, entitled structures, but also the surviving Accountability.” Held at CSUN’s “Legal Responses to Genocide- Armenians. These hidden Grand Salon, the conference Related Liabilities,” was Armenians were encountered in was part of the United Armenian conducted by the Armenian Diyarbakir, Chunkush, and Zara. Council of Los Angeles’s series of Bar Association (ABA). Garo A 95 year-old Armenian Armenian Genocide Centennial Ghazarian, Esq., introduced the woman named Aida shared the events, and was dedicated to the ABA and its panelists, and Armen story of her mother, who was generations of 1915 and 2015. K. Hovannisian, Esq., moderated taken by a Turkish soldier as Prof. Barlow Der the panel. The speakers and their a bride. Though Aida and her Mugrdechian of the Armenian topics were: Saro Kerkonian, mother continued to live in Studies Program at Fresno State Esq., “Justice for Genocide and Chunkush after the Turkish man participated in the first panel on Challenges in United States died, their Armenian identities Saturday morning with a paper Courts”; Edvin Minassian, were never forgotten. She Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian on “Western Armenian Language Esq., “Justice for Genocide expressed her joy in encountering and Literature in Exile: Genocide and Challenges in Turkey’s Left to right: Michelle Tutelian, Joel Mazmanian, Matthew fellow Armenians, “I get as happy Karanian, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, Ovsanna Simonyan, and and Its Consequences.” The Courts”; and Karnig Kerkonian, as a mountain.” panel, “Language as a Victim,” Esq., “Justice for Genocide: Marine Vardanyan at the book signing following the Febru- A particularly interesting ary 17 event at the University Business Center. was moderated by Dr. Hagop Opportunities and Challenges in point of the presentation Gulludjian and featured Dr. International Courts.” Marine Vardanyan During the presentation, vibrant revolved around Karanian’s Vartan Matiossian on “Pleading The conference concluded with ditor E photos of Western Armenia lit up visit to Kharpert, a city that was No Context: On Uses and Abuses a commentary by Dr. Richard G. the auditorium, however, not all home to many Armenians who of the Word ‘Yeghern’”; and Hovannisian, professor emeritus Sometimes it takes an accident photos elicited positive feelings. immigrated to Fresno. Due to the Dr. Shushan Karapetian, “The at the University of California, to produce the most beautiful One image showed a church American missionary presence in Burden of Language as a Moral Los Angeles (UCLA) and the of works. Attorney Matthew with uneven terrain surrounding Kharpert, more than 80 percent Obligation.” first holder of the Armenian Karanian, author of the new it, a remnant of efforts to dig of Armenians in the United The second morning panel Educational Foundation Chair illustrated book, Historic Armenia up “Armenian gold” after the States prior to the Genocide were dealt with “Teaching Genocide,” in Modern Armenian History at After 100 Years, admitted that the Kharpertsis. Genocide and a common scene with Dr. Rubina Peroomian UCLA. product itself was an “accidental in many of Karanian’s visits to Though Karanian moderating. Dr. Hasmig Baran The conference was co- publication.” Karanian spoke on historic Armenian sites. photographed numerous spoke about “Content and sponsored by the United the process of creating his book as Despite his initial hesitancy, breathtaking sites, even the most Pedagogy of Genocide Education Armenian Council of Los part of the Spring Lecture series Karanian’s first day in Western innocent looking views could in the 21st Century: The Armenian Angeles, the National of the Armenian Studies Program, Armenia was a transformative not escape the memory of the Case”; Roxanne Makasjian spoke Association of Armenian Studies held on Tuesday, February 17, at experience when he participated Genocide, as many of them were about “Armenian Genocide and Research (NAASR), the Fresno State. Badarak in a (Divine Liturgy) the killing grounds for thousands Education in Secondary Schools Knights of Vartan-Los Angeles What started out as a visit to at the Church of the Holy Cross of Armenians. Today”; and Dr. Kori Street County Chapters, the Armenian historic Western Armenia for with Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian It is because of this painful reflected about “Educating for Bar Association, the Armenian a wedding in Cilicia, soon led and scholars Dr. James Russell fact that many Armenians Change: Using Testimonies in General Benevolent Union to the production of a book that and Armen Aroyan. face difficulty in visiting their Teaching about Genocide.” (AGBU), the Department of holds images of historic Armenia It was this experience on ancestral homeland. For many, The third and fourth panels Modern and Classical Languages from 100 years ago to the present. Akhtamar island that inspired the presentation was the closest were held in the afternoon session. and Literatures at CSUN, and Illustrated with 125 color photos Karanian to continue his travels, they will ever get to Western Dr. Levon Marashlian moderated the Mousa Ler Association of and maps, Historic Armenia scratch the surface, and find more Armenia. the third panel, entitled “Those California. allows readers to travel through of the lost homeland. “Akhtamar But were we wrong to stay Who Were Forced to Assimilate.” Near East Relief posters were history and experience the is the bone sticking above the away from our homeland for the It featured the following speakers exhibited during the conference Armenia that was once populated sand,” said Karanian. past 100 years? and subjects: Prof. Khatchig by the Ararat-Eskijian Museum by Armenians. Karanian has Karanian compared 100-year- This question, asked by Mouradian, “Un-Hiding the Past: of Mission Hills, CA. travelled to and from historic old photos of several churches, Karanian, may not have a simple Myth-Making and the ‘Hidden Armenia since 1997, capturing before and after, but he was not answer. Yet for Karanian, one images of Armenian landscapes, prepared for the shock of seeing thing is certain, “If we keep structures, and people. Historic the ruined structures, many of staying away, there will be “Valley of Hope: The Armenian Armenia focuses on the six which were a direct result of nothing left for us to see.” Western Armenian provinces Turkish government vandalism Karanian dedicated his new Journey from Terror to Triumph” along with the Eastern Armenian and military damage. book to his two grandmothers, region of Ani and Kars. Ani, once known as the “City both survivors of the Armenian Thursday, April 16 • 7:00-9:00PM Like many with ties to of 1001 Churches,” is one of the Genocide, and to everyone who on ValleyPBS Western Armenia, Karanian was areas with a dense number of has helped rise and rebuild from ambivalent about travelling to cultural sites. the Genocide. Sarah Soghomonian • Project Coordinator the land of his ancestors. The Powerful photos of what Information about the book 559-266-1800 ext 230 region seemed to be haunted by remained of the city showed the Historic Armenia may be found the presence of the Armenian frail condition of many churches at the following website: http:// 1544 Van Ness Ave. Fresno, CA. 93721 people and the Genocide of 1915. and the remnants of the capital, www.historicarmeniabook.com/. www.valleypbs.org March 2015 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Kazan Visiting Prof. Dr. Douzjian La Porta Devotes Sabbatical to Research in Rome Offers Class on Genocide in Film Staff Report Last year Dr. Sergio La Porta was awarded a sabbatical for the Fall semester of 2014. He spent it in Rome, Italy, pursuing research and working with a colleague there. His family also joined him for the semester. When asked why he chose Rome, Dr. La Porta responded that it provided him with the opportunity to work with Dr. Zaroui Pogossian, an Armenian colleague, who teaches at John Cabot University in Rome. They are editing, translating, and commenting upon a text called the “Vision of Agat‘on,” a prophecy Archive Photo: ASP Dr. La Porta and family in the Norman castle at Enna. Dr. Myrna Douzjian, fourth from right, with students of the about the end of the world, that Wednesday afternoon “Armenian Genocide in Film” class. exists in different versions. Pontificio Instituto Orientale, highlight for him was to see his Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Dr. La Porta remarked that he finished an article on Armenian children go to public school in Marina Chardukian “I attended the AARPA Film really enjoyed being involved in monasticism, and presented Rome and learn to adapt to living Staff Writer Festival in Los Angeles for the the collaborative project which a paper at an international in a new language and culture. first time. To my surprise, despite they plan to publish as a book. conference on the Church of the Their school in Rome, he The Armenian Studies the quality and variety of the films “Dr. Pogossian is a wonderful Holy Cross on Aghtamar held in said, “was incredibly warm Program at Fresno State is being screened, I found virtually scholar,” he said, “and it was a Paris. and supportive and we all had fortunate to have visiting scholars no reviews of them in the press. pleasure to be able to hash ideas Although Dr. La Porta was a marvelous time.” He was to teach in their area of expertise. Critics’ Forum had a section out with each other.” pleased with the work he was also able to take them to their This year’s Kazan Visiting on film and music, so I decided During his stay, he also able to get done while on his grandfather’s town in Sicily and Professor, Dr. Myrna Douzjian, is that one of my annual articles conducted research at the sabbatical, he noted that the meet their relatives. teaching a new course, Armenian should cover some of the films Studies 120T- “The Armenian at AARPA. Since then, I have “Tradition, Legacy, and Culture” Exhibit Open at Genocide in Film.” pursued research and writing on Dr. Douzjian has been film, although my formal training the Fresno Art Museum January 23-April 26 teaching for twenty years and is in literature and the dramatic heritage of the Armenian culture, greatly enjoys being a visiting arts.” Her experience in reviewing which continued to flourish professor. She has taught films has allowed for students and thrive despite the trials and previously at Temple University to appreciate the contribution tribulations of the past century. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she makes to the course and As I made my way around and has traveled back and forth the stimulating activities and the exhibit, a certain sense of from Los Angeles to Philadelphia. discussions she initiates. cultural pride overtook me, and Dr. Douzjian travels between All of the students are very I was reminded of the following Los Angeles and Fresno for her involved in the class and are lines from Paruyr Sevak’s poetry: weekly Wednesday class. interested in the documentaries “Simply we know how to build Dr. Douzjian’s course focuses shown. Dr. Douzjian has put from the rock, a monastery; on the various modes through careful thought in choosing which How to make fish from stone, which the Armenian Genocide films to screen each week. how to make man from clay.” is represented in film. The class “I made the specific selections Craftsmanship, as noted by consists of assigned readings, by aiming to strike a balance Sevak, is an integral part of discussions, and screenings of between some of the most well- the Armenian culture, and the films and documentaries. The known films that deal with artwork displayed in the exhibit environment created by Dr. the Armenian Genocide, like was a testament to this fact. What Douzjian allows students to Egoyan’s Ararat, and others that most others would have viewed learn to look at films through have had a comparatively narrow as trash, the artists had crafted different perspectives and to reach, like Memories Without Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian into beautiful collages. Where be more analytical. This is the Borders. In this way, students will Armenian Art Exhibit curators Joyce Kierejczyk, left, and others would simply see plain first time that Douzjian has had have an opportunity to rethink Carol Tikijian in front of art work by Varaz Samuelian. The bronze or steel, the artists had the opportunity to design and films that they have already works of eleven Armenian artists are featured in the exhibit. envisioned elegant sculptures. teach her own Armenian Studies seen and, at the same time, gain Reminiscent of the expert hands course. exposure to new films,” stated Dr. Aramayis Orkusyan Samuelian, William Saroyan, and that crafted the Armenian cross- Dr. Douzjian’s interest in Douzjian. Staff Writer Arminee Shishmanian, and will stones, the skillfully constructed film began in 2009 when she In this novel course students are remain on display through April artwork displayed in the exhibit became a contributor the Critics’ exposed to films that encourage With the one hundred year 26. are a reminder that artistry is part Forum, a column that focuses on them to think, question, and anniversary of the Armenian When reflecting on the of the Armenian identity. art and culture in the Diaspora. explore different interpretations. Genocide fast approaching, Genocide, images of sorrow and The significance of the exhibit the Fresno community has grief are among the first that come is perhaps best encapsulated Visit been teeming with events to mind. Yet, when I entered the in the quote from Saroyan that commemorating the tragic exhibit for the first time, I was “The role of art is to make a Hye Sharzhoom online at: year that left the history of the delightfully surprised to find that world which can be inherited.” Armenian people stained with none of the artwork – with the Although spread across the four hyesharzhoom.com blood. exception of one – was themed corners of the world, art – through Among the many local with the Armenian Genocide. its ability to transcend geography organizations participating in the Instead, bronze figurines of – has acted as a silver thread that commemoration of the Genocide Armenian dancers and musicians has kept us bound as one. Tarkanian, From Page 4 the coach’s daughter-in-law. Centennial, under the umbrella filled the museum with folk Simply attend any event where his jersey was retired at the Save Donations may be made online of the Armenian Genocide rhythms that have comprised two Armenians meet and dance Mart Center last year,” Fresno at Committee-Fresno, the Fresno Armenian rituals and daily life their way to exhaustion through a State President Joseph I. Castro https://www.fresnostate.edu/ Art Museum is showcasing a since ancient times. Lively “shurj par” and you will witness said. “We at Fresno State send advancement/giving/givenow. new exhibit Tradition, Legacy, circular scribbles by Saroyan that a moment of shared cultural our deepest condolences to Lois html (check the “Other” box Culture, featuring works by resembled the shape of grapes, identity. and the entire family. His many and type in: Tarkanian. Or internationally and regionally symbolic of Armenia’s deep As we prepare to commemorate positive contributions to Fresno checks — payable to Fresno renowned artists of Armenian roots in agriculture and ties to the centennial of the Armenian State are deeply appreciated by State Foundation (memo: Gift descent. the Central Valley, blanketed the Genocide, maintaining the his colleagues and friends in our in Memory of Coach Tarkanian) The exhibit, which opened walls. Armenian identity throughout the community.” — may be mailed to: Office on January 23, displays the It was clear that rather than Diaspora becomes of paramount The family of Coach Jerry of University Development, artwork of John Altoon, Varujan commemorating the Genocide importance. Tarkanian requests that donations California State University, Boghosian, Ara Dolarian, Charles through a focus on the atrocities For the Armenian community in his memory be made to the Fresno, 5244 N. Jackson Avenue, Garabedian, Arshile Gorky, of the past, the artwork displayed of Fresno, the Tradition, Legacy, Armenian Studies Program at M/S KC45, Fresno, CA 93740- Khachik Khachatouryan, Ed in the Fresno Art Museum was Culture exhibit has provided a Fresno State, said Amy Tarkanian, 8023. Marouk, Rueben Nakian, Varaz selected to celebrate the rich method for doing just that. 6 Hye Sharzhoom March 2015 ASO Active in Community & Campus It was a great opportunity to welcome new ASO members Eench Ga Chga and to break the ice, helping new Haverj Stanboulian • Staff Writer members to get to know each other. If you could go back and visit an Armenian On February 28, ASO historical event, what would it be and why? members and friends gathered my grandparents were after they at St. Paul Armenian Apostolic escaped the Genocide and would Church to learn how to bake like to visit Armenia to understand simit (Armenian sesame cookies). more about my culture. The event was an opportunity to introduce members to Armenian baking, and also created treats for the Armenian Studies Program Banquet on March 1, where the 40th Anniversary of ASO was celebrated. As the ASO continues to plan their semester events, including Ani Ekezyan Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP an upcoming trip to the beach Freshman ASO members at the Fresno State Men’s Basketball game. during Spring Break, they are Major: Biology Tatevik Hovhannisyan game, with the Bulldogs taking also dedicating time towards taff riter home the win. Members enjoyed planning activities for the 100th If I could go back in time and S W Tadeh Issakhanian the game, which also included Anniversary of the Armenian visit an Armenian historical Graduate Student The Spring 2015 semester has a half-time show by “Mutts in Genocide. event it would be September Major: Masters in Business begun with many educational Motion” and fun music. The ASO Genocide 21, 1991, when the Republic of Administration and fun activities coordinated An event that has now become Commemoration Committee Armenia was restored after 70 by the Armenian Students tradition for the ASO is the has promoted its theme of “A years of Soviet rule. It would I would go back to August 23, Organization Executive Spring semester bowling night, Century of Rebirth” through a be an exciting and honorable 1990, to the first session of the Committee. This semester which took place on Saturday, new Armenian Genocide t-shirt, experience to be present on the Supreme Council of Armenia. is particularly extraordinary February 14. Members came out which has an Armenian Genocide day Armenians regained their This was the day the declaration on because the members are also to show their love for bowling Centennial logo created by Fresno Independence. I would like to be the “Independence of Armenia” actively participating in the while munching on pizza and State student Christopher Orozco present in a positive, memorable, was adopted. It would be very community activities planned for enjoying the fun new features that on the front, and the image of and powerful day in our history special to witness the events of the Centennial Commemoration have been installed in the bowling Mother Armenia with Ararat, that displays the strength, love, the day that led to the eventual of the Armenian Genocide. alley. Regardless of whether Etchmiadzin, and Tsitsernakaberd and pride that the Armenian proclamation of the Independent On January 24, the ASO students made a strike or rolled on the back. people have. Republic of Armenia. members attended the Sayat the bowling ball straight into the The Committee is working on Nova Choir concert, organized gutter, the night was a refreshing preparing other commemorative by Hamazkayin of Fresno. The time to relax from the already events and performances for the forty-four performers, who came overwhelming semester and to week of April 24. from Los Angeles, sang selections enjoy one another’s company. from traditional folk music at the Fresno Armenian Presbyterian Church. “I enjoyed the performance very much. I am always excited whenever there is an opportunity to connect with my culture. I Photos: Barlow Der Mugrdechian am glad that I am a member of ASO, and I am fortunate that Sean Minier Lucy Ekezyan the officers genuinely take the Senior Freshman interest in serving their members Major: Business Major: Biology by informing them about events Administration, Computer such as this,” commented Fresno Information Systems I would go back to 301 AD when State junior Aramayis Orkusyan. the Armenians officially adopted Along with cultural events, I would want to experience Christianity as their state religion. ASO members demonstrated their the time when the Armenians Witnessing this event would mean Bulldog Pride on February 4, by immigrated to the United being able to see the chapter in our attending the Fresno State vs. Archive Photo: ASP States after the Genocide. My extensive and rich timeline that San Jose State Men’s Basketball ASO members enjoyed an evening of bowling on Feb. 14. grandmother Sara Kunjosian essentially shaped our way of life. was from Kayseri, Turkey. My While our decision to be Christian Armenian Studies Book Donations Add to Library grandfather Sarkis Kunjosian in the same year. A copy of the has sometimes proved costly, was from Sivas, Turkey. They book is housed in Fresno State’s the consequences are greatly were only in their villages for a Henry Madden Library. outweighed by the blessings short period of time during the The postcard images depict gifted to our people for being Genocide. My grandfather fled to the educational and humanitarian Christian— the commitment and Greece and my Grandma traveled programs the AGBU offered strength to our faith truly defines to Syria with her mother. I would to Genocide survivors in the Armenians around the world. like to learn about where both wake of World War I. Included in the collection is a picture of Tregoning, From Page 1 “100 Years: the temporary tent city in the Tregoning began working for stark desert landscape of Port the City of Oakland where she Valley Said, Egypt, established to settle continued for over 35 years. After refugees from Musa Dagh. Also retiring she attended college and Armenian included is an exterior view of studied History, Middle Eastern the Teachers’ College in Van, and Languages, and Armenian Heritage” a group portrait, entitled “the last History. group of desert orphans at Aleppo Mrs. Tregoning was very Weekly stories that will Photo: AGBU Archives Station.” The AGBU in New active and had great knowledge of begin airing on KSEE 24 A postcard depicting AGBU Founder Boghos Nubar Pasha. York has scanned these images cooking and baking, preparing the on Monday, February 23rd. and has made them available on very best cuisine. She had many Subsequent pieces will air Staff Report AGBU Memento of [its] Silver “themed” dinner parties and her their Flickr page online (search on ’s Anniversary. terms : AGBU Silver 1931). preparations were always a hit. Wednesday Amidst a recent donation The cards were produced To date, the Armenian Mrs. Tregoning is very at 6:00PM & 11:00PM of books on Armenian history to commemorate the 25th Studies Program Library has much missed by all her friends and literature by Dr. Jeannette anniversary of the Armenian added nearly 1,900 items to and colleagues. In her trust she KSEE24 News Hovsepian to the Armenian General Benevolent Union, its catalog, including over 200 has provided for many school Studies Program was a remarkable presumably in coordination visual resources, and our Saroyan programs, charities, and special find: a small book of 12 postcards with the publication of a book collection, curated from an organizations, so that others can Stefani Booroojian from 1931, printed in France with highlighting the history and extensive donation of printed have the experiences that she had. captions in Armenian, entitled works of the organization printed material by Col. Carl Mahakian. March 2015 Hye Sharzhoom 7 Thank You Annual Fund Donors Vartanantz Commemoration (received as of February 28, 2015) Marked by Valley Armenians Benefactors Levon Der Bedrossian Jim & Anna Shekoyan S. Krikorian Haig Der Manuelian Vasgan & Rose Solakian Ted & Arpie Dick Edward L. Sornigian Patrons Margaret A. Dildilian Barbara Stepanian Ararat Foundation, Dean Sossie Djabrayan Victor & Bella Stepanians Shahinian Diana Boghosian Dorough Debbie Summers Oscar & Jan Kasparian Dr. Ara Dostourian Geri & Jerry Tahajian Mrs. Herbert Lion Mike & Lesta Ekizian Dennis N. Torigian Jack Emerian Dickran & Anahit Toumajan Friends Gloria Enochian H. Harry & Shushan Vartanian Edward & Eleonore Aslanian Harry & Marian Eritzian Victor & Hasmig Vasgerdsian The Vartkess & Rita Balian Dr. & Mrs. John Farsakian John Zerounian Family Foundation, Sam S. Farsakian Stan & Fran Ziegler in loving memory of Vartkess Jane Gamoian In Memory of Clifford Balian Aram & Barbara Garabedian Melikian James & Coke Hallowell Betty Haak Suzy Antounian Armen & Nora Hampar Patt (Altoonian) Herdklotz Fr. Kevork & Sandra Arakelian George Kay Paul & Margaret Hokokian William and Shirley Melikian Evelyn Jandegian Armbruster Keyan Armenian Community School children participated Sponsors Kathy Jenanyan Mrs. Evelyn Boyd in the Vartanantz Commemoration on February 12. Anonymous Allan & Rosemary Jendian Janice Peters Chitjian Photo: ASP Archive Mark Chenian Deneb Karentz Hasmig & Antranik Cingoz Lauren Chardukian with an introduction and Dr. Earlene Craver John & Angela Kalashian William & Laura Kulhanjian Staff Writer opening remarks by the Master Dr. Vartan Gregorian Edward Kerekian Conrow of Ceremonies, Ara Karkazian, Dr. & Mrs. Bernard Karian Gregory & Alice Ketabgian Allison Jean Ferrier 1,564 years ago, in 451 Commander of the Knights of Ken & Meredith Khachigian Jirair Ketchedjian Jim, Alice, & Marge Gondjian AD, the Armenians, under the Vartan. Dr. Ani Ketabgian Harry Keyishian Shavarsh Hazarabedian leadership of General Vartan Charlie Keyan Armenian Nancy R. Kolligian Joyce & Bob Kierejczyk Edward & Armineh Jamgotchian Mamigonian, fought for their Community School students Roxie Kricorian Mr. & Mrs. Norman Kondy Jones Hall Law Corporation religious and political freedom participated in the celebration Janice Maroot Alan Koobatian Rod & Rebecca Jorjorian from the neighboring Sassanid by performing songs and Michael & Jackline Matosian Ann Lousin Albert & Mae Kaljian Persians. Although the Armenians poems about Vartanantz, such Stephen & Sylvia Melikian in memory of the martyrs of Elmer & Gloria Kaprielian were greatly outnumbered they as “Yev Zoragank Vartan,” Mildred Shirin 1915 Ron & Naomi Lee fought valiantly. By the end of the and “Vartanantz Asbedner.” Kirk & Kathy Yergat, Leigh & Carolyn Manoogian The Kulhanjian Strauch Family: battle there were 1,036 Armenian Following the performance, Yergat Packing Ralph Matewosian Roger, Julie, Paul, Nairi, and casualties and many Persian Fresno County Superior Court Gina Mechigian Alex casualties. This historic event is Judge Lisa Gamoian spoke about Supporters Dr. Vahe Meghrouni Victor MacFarlane known as the Battle of Avarayr. being Armenian and shared Dr. Zaven A. Adrouny Maile Melkonian Don, Lisa, and Matthew Though the Armenians did her personal experiences. She M. W. Alexander Charles Merzian Manoogian not triumph, the surviving addressed how distinct and Seth & Beverly Atamian Jonah & Sara Michaelian Mr. & Mrs. Jasper J. Mateer soldiers continued their fight different Armenians are in this Armen C. Avakian Dr. Anoush Miridjanian Brian & Janalee Melikian against the Persians for the next melting pot they call home. Elizabeth Ayvazian George Mooradian Chester & Gladys Melikian 30 years, utilizing guerilla-style Gamoian believes that three Vahe Baladouni Moradian Trucking Inc. James & Connie Melikian tactics. The Persians eventually values, “the Armenian deep- Arsinoe Baron Malcolm & Sandra Narlian Karen Melikian tired of the effort to forcibly seated devotion to God, devotion Paul & Harriet Boghosian Santa Cruz Councilmember Charles, Peter, Leslie, Harry, and convert the Armenians, and to country, and devotion to the Bill Bohigian Richelle Noroyan Lucy Merzian finally recognized the religious family,” are values that have Marty & Sue Bohigian Pauline J. Ohanesian Paul & Kathy Mesplé independence of the Armenians been passed on from generation Robert & Frances Bozajian Vahan Papyan Albert J. Missirlian, Jr. in the 484 Treaty of Nvarsak. The to generation. She spoke about Nicki Shahoogian Chandler Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Arthur & Rosemond 451 AD battle is commemorated growing up in an Armenian Mr. & Mrs. Arsen E. Charles John & Cindy Rettig Muncheryan today as Vartanantz, which is household, with traditions that Dr. Carolyn Chooljian Mr. & Mrs. G. Sariyan Richard & Sheryl Pressler celebrated every year in February were different than her American Dr. & Mrs. Shavarsh Chrissian Ralph Setian Doug Robbins & Mark Reed by Armenians around the world. schoolmates, something that Vicki Marderosian Coughlin Dr. Ruben Shahbazian Gayle Starr The Knights and Daughters of many Armenian-Americans can Nazareth Darakjian, M.D. Danielle R. Shapazian Mr. & Mrs. Vic Vasgerdsian Vartan, Yeprad Lodge, organized relate to. Just as the soldiers this annual event together fought to keep the Armenian Douzjian, From Page 1 will be lost in the method of film was open to interpretation. with local Armenian churches beliefs alive, the Armenian family Visiting Professor, Dr. Douzjian delivery. According to Dr. Douzjian, and organizations. This year’s and community work to keep will be giving a series of lectures The subject of this short film “The film only makes a single, commemoration took place on those same beliefs alive while about her area of expertise, “The was actual events that happened entirely inconspicuous, reference February 12 at Holy Trinity living in a land far from Armenia. Armenian Genocide in Film.” in 1910 in Constantinople, to the Armenian Genocide.” Armenian Apostolic Church, The Knights and Daughters of The first of her three-part the evacuation and eventual However, she believes the beginning with the celebration Vartan provided a variety of food series, titled “Bridging History termination of the stray dogs in reference, though a very loose of the Divine Liturgy at 6:00PM. and refreshments after the event. and Fiction: Serge Avedikian’s the city. The dogs were sent to an connection to the Genocide, was A program followed the service Chienne d’Histoire as Allegory island called “Barking Island,” not fundamental for conveying Sanjian, From Page 3 for the Armenian Genocide” took after the noise made by the the film’s representation of precarious position. place on Wednesday, February stranded canines. Dr. Douzjian the Armenian people and the in 2003 at 65,000-75,000, while Dr. Sanjian’s analysis and 11, in the Alice Peters Auditorium explained the similarities between Genocide. the Syrian population at large comparison of the Armenians in the University Business Center. the methods used by the Turkish Dr. Douzjian selected had grown ten-fold in the period in two of the most important Prior to her analysis, Dr. officials when removing the dogs the perfect film for her first since 1938. Thus the percentage communities in the Middle Douzjian screened Chienne and the methods used later during lecture because it encouraged of Armenians as part of the total East provided an important d’Histoire to give context to the Armenian Genocide. the audience to think and ask population had declined to about preliminary assessment of the the ensuing discussion. Film Dr. Douzjian noted similarities questions that are not usually .03%. The dwindling number of current situation in Lebanon and director Avedikian, a native in the methods and behavior of brought up in such lectures. Armenians left them in a more Syria. of Armenia, currently lives in the government in both cases. The film is unlike many other and with the public at large, several activities in conjunction France. The animated film was For someone who is familiar with Genocide inspired works, which bringing greater awareness about with the 100th Anniversary of about 15 minutes in length and the Armenian Genocide, it is easy was a refreshing change. The Armenian culture,” stated Der the Armenian Genocide. The was beautifully created, with an to see it represented in the film lecture was followed by many Mugrdechian. SAS annually publishes a peer- unusual style unlike most films through allegory. The plight of questions and conversations In 2014 SAS held several reviewed Journal of the Society with the theme of Genocide. the dogs clearly represented the reflective of the unique major activities to mark its for Armenian Studies, edited by Chienne d’Histoire uses images, Armenians. However, much of the perspectives of the audience. 40th anniversary, including an Sergio La Porta, and a Newsletter. sound, and the compassion international Armenian Studies The SAS website, engendered by the images to SAS, From Page 1 for Armenian Studies. The SAS Workshop in Yerevan, Armenia, societyforarmenianstudies.com, evoke a response in the viewers. President Kevork Bardakjian plays an important role as a forum October 3-5, with 44 scholars provides information about Dr. Douzjian highlighted the (University of Michigan-Ann for scholars to meet and exchange participating from Armenia events and activities about the differences between fact and Arbor) and outgoing Secretary ideas. SAS members conduct and abroad. In November the Society. The Secretariat of the fiction, and how a fictitious story Ani Kasparian (University of research in many different fields, Society sponsored a two-day SAS is based in the Armenian can be used to represent fact. Michigan-Dearborn) for their but in each case this is related conference in Washington, D.C. Studies Program in Fresno. For She also pointed out that it is dedicated service to the Society. to the study of Armenia and the on “Armenians in the Ottoman more information please call the important to pull the facts out of “It is a privilege to be elected Armenian people. This research Empire in the 19-20th Centuries.” SAS at 559-278-2669 or send an the fiction or the original message as the new President of Society is shared with other academics This year the SAS is planning email to [email protected]. 8 Hye Sharzhoom March 2015 org, where ideas and news of 1915-2015 100th Anniversary of the events would be accessible to the public. Armenian Genocide The largest and most ASO Events the Week of April 20-24 anticipated project of the AGC, however, has been the Monday, April 20 Friday, April 24 commissioning of the Armenian Noon-2pm Noon-1pm Genocide Monument to be erected Music by Student recitations on the campus of California State Aramayis, Mark & Gevork and music University, Fresno, which will Information table/ be the first Armenian Genocide monument to be erected on any photo booth Armenian Genocide university campus in the United Free Speech Area Monument-Fresno State States. The monument will not only commemorate the 1.5 CineCulture to Feature Eric Nazarian million martyrs of the Armenian Friday, March 27, 2015 Genocide, but it will also act as Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian 5:30PM an educational tool to inform The partially completed Monument at Fresno State. and educate the public about “Celluloid Exiles: A Brief Monument, From Page 1 generations. the Genocide as well as other History of the Armenian intended to raise awareness and Through its dedication genocides. commemorate the Centennial of and effort, the AGC has “The Monument will have Genocide and Diaspora the Genocide. organized many activities QR codes that will link to on Film” Among the largest hubs for and events to fulfill the three [informational] websites about the commemorative events, Fresno pillars of its mission statement Genocide,” stated Dr. La Porta. Peters Educational has gained the spotlight due (commemorate, educate, inspire), “Education can take place inside Center Auditorium including the Tradition – Legacy or outside of the classroom.” to the efforts of the Armenian Eric Nazarian Genocide Centennial (AGC) – – Culture exhibit featuring eleven Perhaps the most inspiring Free admission Photo: ASP Archive Fresno Committee. The AGC artists that opened on January 23 aspect of the AGC has been La Porta, From Page 1 Armenian people was taking is a collection of community at the Fresno Art Museum. the youth involvement. A Dr. La Porta was among the place, no appropriate term existed representatives–brought together In addition to organizing their youth committee, the Hye three Fresno State professors to describe the happenings. for the Centennial year– own events, the AGC has taken Movement, has made tremendous selected to speak in this year’s Thus, the events of 1915 played collaborating to commemorate the role of a large organizing contributions to the Fresno series. Modeled after the well- a large role in defining the term and raise awareness about the body for all other auxiliary community by raising awareness known “Ted Talks,” nominations “genocide,” coined by Raphael Genocide. Committee members events that have been planned in through social movements and for the series are solicited Lemkin in 1944. Though the include representatives from the commemoration of the centennial. hashtag activism on social media from students by asking “What word “genocide” did not exist, San Joaquin Valley’s religious, In a conversation with AGC outlets. The Hye Movement’s professor inspires you?” The the international community was educational, social, and political Chairman Dr. Sergio La Porta, he ability to reach out to Armenian series features three faculty well aware of the inhumane acts communities, as well as youth remarked about the importance youth has made it an indispensable members who exemplify the taking place in Ottoman Turkey. members. The committee aims of maintaining organization in part of the overall efforts of the core values at Fresno State— Nearly 200 articles about the to not only commemorate the midst of all the events and AGC–Fresno Committee. In Discovery, Diversity, and Genocide were published in The the martyrs of the Armenian activities that are being planned. addition to the Hye Movement’s Distinction. New York Times between 1915 Genocide, but to make a visible Dr. La Porta highlighted the contributions to the Fresno Dr. La Porta spoke on the and 1922, reports were published change in the community by fact that one of the ideas behind community, the Hye Movement topic of “Who Cares? Genocide, by missionaries, and U.S. educating the public about forming the AGC was to create was responsible for a drive that Historical Memory, and Moral Ambassador Henry Morgenthau Genocide, and inspiring future a centralized website, agcfresno. collected over 5,000 items to be Responsibility” and addressed wrote about his experience in the sent to orphanages in Armenia. the important role of the Ottoman Empire. Later one of the In a relatively short period of Genocide not only in the lives of largest relief efforts mounted in time, the AGC has made lasting Armenians, but for civilization at the United States was launched contributions to the community. large. The Armenian Genocide by the Near East Relief Fund to Its initiatives have made visible was the first event of its kind help the Armenian people. The changes and demonstrated in the 20th century, setting a fund collected what is today the the ability of the collective path for how civilization would equivalent of 1.5 billion dollars. spirit of the Armenian people. progress. Dr. La Porta touched Today, as denial of the Although the committee will on the paradigm of genocide, Armenian Genocide continues, shrink considerably in size patterns such as dehumanization, civilization faces a moral after the commemoration of systematic killings, deportations, responsibility to remember and the 100th anniversary of the and concentration camps. New acknowledge the massacre of 1.5 Armenian Genocide, there is inventions such as the telegraph million people. talk of maintaining parts of and railway lines were also Dr. La Porta stressed the the committee to continue the employed for purposes of mass importance of remembering educational efforts. We can extermination. Such patterns as a vital part of being human. only hope that the AGC is not a have been repeatedly observed “Remembering is not stopping Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP short-lived organization, but the throughout genocides of the 20th us from going forward. It’s the ASO T-shirts for the anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, beginning of an ongoing effort to century. catalyst that allows us to engage modeled by Vachagan Vardanyan and Esther Oganyan. bring positive change. While the massacre of the in acts of humanity.” Thank You Donors HYE SHARZHOOM Betty Apkarian Reedley NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Edward & Eleonore Aslanian San Francisco George & Gail Bedrosian Fresno Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. Hasmig & Antranik Cingoz El Cerrito Karl DeKlotz, Fresno Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with Fresno Commerical donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of Jack & Lucille Gahvejian Fresno increased mailing costs. 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