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 st FA|

For decades, around the world have congregated every April 24 to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Protests and vigils are held in every city with an Armenian community without fail. In Yerevan, thousands march to the Armenian Genocide memorial complex at Tsitsernakaberd to pay their respects to those lost in 1915. Year after year, Armenians in the homeland and in the Diaspora, across political parties and religious convictions, have united to commemorate those Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Dr. & Mrs. Arnold & Dianne Gazarian Photo: ASP Archive who were massacred and to The Armenian Genocide Monument at Fresno State. This Dr. Arnold & Dianne Gazarian in the flourishing of the Armenian demand recognition of the crime. year marks the 5th anniversary of the dedication of the Mon- were to be honored at the Armenian Studies Program on campus. Even in the midst of the “Velvet ument, which took place on April 23, 2015. Studies Program 32nd Annual Following is a brief history of Revolution,” the people and the memorated in their homes by gathered at home to reflect on Banquet on March 22. Through the establishment of the Berberian government set aside their dispute lighting candles, attending virtual the stories that our ancestors their philanthropy, the Gazarians to lay flowers at Tsitsernakaberd. vigils, sharing stories of survival, passed down to us. Amid the See Gazarians, Page 3 have played an instrumental role This year, for the first time, raising money for COVID-19 social distancing practices that Armenians and Kurds in the Late COVID-19 has brought these victims, and connecting with have kept many of us apart, I was sacred rituals to a grinding halt, as fellow Armenians on social particularly drawn to the letters Published by people around the world hunker media. This was the first year of my great-great grandfather, down in their homes to prevent in over a decade that I did not Thomas Mugerditchian, who Armenian Series at Fresno State the spread of this new virus. spend April 24 with the Armenian Staff Report This year, Armenians com- community. Instead, my family See April 24, page 8 Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Armenian Studies Program Awards $75,000 in Berberian Coordinator of the Armenian Studies Program, Scholarships to Forty-Nine Students in 2019-2020 announced that a ground-breaking taff eport dents to pursue Minors in become simplified and is entirely Armenians and Kurds S R new book, Armenian Studies and to enroll online through the Program in the Later Ottoman Empire , has The Armenian Studies Program in the various course offerings. website at http://www.fresnostate. been published by the Armenian awarded scholarships for the We ask our students and our edu/artshum/armenianstudies/ Series of The Press, at California academic year 2019-2020 to supporters to tell their friends students/scholarships-offered. Armen- State University, Fresno. forty-nine students from twenty- and relatives about the Armenian html and the University website ians and Kurds is volume 9 in the nine different endowment or Studies Program Scholarship pro- at http://www.fresnostate.edu/ Armenian Series and is number 1 scholarship funds for a total of gram and to encourage them to studentaffairs/financialaid/ in the Armenian Studies Program $75,500. In addition to providing apply for the 2020-2021 academic scholarships/index.html Conference Series. needed financial support, the year (application period will open ee cholarships age See Armenians page 8 scholarships encourage stu- in October of 2020). Applying has S ASP S P 7 A Quest for Peace: The Armenian Genocide and Leon Peters Foundation Recognized Kurdish-Armenian Reconciliation-An Opinion for Philanthropy to Armenian Studies Staff Report Ara Sarafian Special to Hye Sharzhoom The Leon S. Peters Foundation has been a key supporter of the On 12 September 2013, Armenian Studies Program for a “Monument to Common many years, and for the past eight Conscience” was erected in years in particular. Their annual Diyarbakir. An unassuming struc- support has allowed the Program ture made of wood, breezeblocks, to award student scholarships, marble, and plastic, it contained a to organize a Lecture Series, simple message in six languages featuring presentations and films, (one of which was Armenian): and to provide student support for “Let us share each other’s pains so a study program to Armenia. that they are not repeated again.” This year the Armenian Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP

The ambiguous simplicity of Archive Photo: ASP Studies Program was going to the monument and its message The “Monument to Conscience” in Diyarbakir, Turkey. recognize the Leon S. Peters Leon S. Peters belied its potency. Although the there were murmurs regarding its long record of state-sponsored Foundation at the Program’s due to the Coronavirus outbreak. monument was presented on the wider meaning and purpose. The violence, such as the 1937–38 32nd Annual Banquet, which The Armenian Studies Program anniversary of the September ostensible idea behind the structure had been scheduled for March 1980 military coup in Turkey, was to draw attention to Turkey’s See Quest for Peace Page 6 22, but which was postponed See Peters Page 6 2 Hye Sharzhoom May 2020 Pianist Nara Avetisyan Performs in California State University, Fresno “Young Armenian Talent” Series Armenian Studies Program Fall 2020 Schedule of Courses Course Units Time Day Instructor General Education-Breadth, Humanities, Area C2 • Arm 1A-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B. Der Mugrdechian (Class #72231) General Education-Breadth, Arts, Area C1 • ArmS 20-Arts of Armenia 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian (Class #72797) General Education-Breadth, Area D3 • ArmS 10-Intro Arm Studies 3 9:00A-09:50A MWF H. Ohanessian (Class #73126) General Education-Integration, Area IC • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 2:00P-3:15P MW H. Ohanessian Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, pianist Nara (Class #73211) Avetisyan, Keyboard Concert Director Prof. Andreas Werz, Upper Division Armenian Studies Course and Dr. Hagop Ohanessian. Photo: Andrew Hagopian • ArmS 108A-Arm History I 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian Yervand Boyajyan fairly new, and Avetisyan intended (Class #76021) Staff Writer to introduce its freshness to the Fresno audience. Even though • ArmS 120T-Hist Ottom Emp 3 2:00P-3:15P TuTh Kazan Visiting Prof. The month of February ended an Armenian composer wrote the (Class #76010) with an amazing and professional piece, it still lacked Armenian Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. concert with pianist Nara Ave- components. It did not sound tisyan. The Philip Lorenz In- like an Armenian composition, ternational Keyboard Concerts but that was not the intent of the For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669. and the Fresno State Armenian composer. The last movement out Studies Program presented the of the three, “Allegro con Fuoco Check on requirements for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the current catalog. third and final musician in the (Cheerful with Fire),” represented http://www.fresnostate.edu/catalog/subjects/armenian-studies/armenia-mn.html “Young Armenian Talent” series, the style the composer was bringing joy to the audience with aiming for. It had the intended a memorable performance of fast and unexpected runs with that various repertoires. The Concert fiery personality. Avetisyan truly was made possible through gave an amazing performance HYE SHARZHOOM the generous support of the capturing the essence of Thomas A. Kooyumjian Family Zakaryan’s piano sonata. FA|

For many Armenians in the Ottoman Empire during the mid- 1880s, migration to the United States presented opportunities of political and economic prosperity and security. This was the case for one Armenian by the name of Ohannes Topalian, who like many Armenian men, immigrated to the United States in the early 1890s. He worked for several Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Dr. Sergio La years in a factory in Providence, Porta, and Dr. Dickran Kouymjian in 2016. Photo: ASP Archive Rhode Island, and five years later was naturalized as a United Gazarians, From Page 1 Hagopian Photo: Andrew Michigan. I noticed that not one States citizen. He also ended up Chair, provided by Dr. Dickran of the agreements I was able to Left to right: David Safrazian, Suzanna Ekmekchyan, Yer- enlisting in the United States Kouymian. get a copy of had a protection vand Boyajyan, Matthew Mugrdechian, Dr. David Gutman, Army, from where he would later guaranteeing that the endowment Dustin Vartanian, Dr. Ari Şekeryan, and Prof. Barlow Der be honorably discharged. Guest History of the Berberian income would only be used for Mugrdechian. Dr. Gutman discussed the broad topic of Ar- speaker Dr. David Gutman stated Endowed Chair Armenian Studies. In fact, many menian migration to the United States. that in 1901, Ohannes Topalian for Armenian Studies older endowments, including received a communication from Surprisingly, “the majority came regulations. “In 1888, just as these ones centuries-old at British his father, asking him to return from the 50-kilometer radius in migrations started to pick up, the Back in the 1980s, Fresno Universities were now being used home and to get married. and around the city of Kharpert, Ottoman state officially outlawed State’s Development Officer, in any way the administration Unfortunately, once Topalian which is a combined city of Armenian migration to the United Richard Francois, approached me wished. returned to the Ottoman Empire, Kharpert and Mezre, a large States and sought to prevent about establishing an Endowed With this information I, and there was no possibility of administrative center. About 50- Armenians from leaving. Abdul Chair for Armenian Studies. My the Advisory Board, drew up a returning to the United States. 70% of the Armenians that came Hamid II’s regime was convinced first question was, were there any contract with the University in He went to Sivas to speak to the to the United States before the that the emergence of these endowed chairs at our University, which it was clearly stated that United States Consul so that he Armenian Genocide came from large-scale Armenian migrations no he said. Since I was a tenured the funds were to be raised for could get a passport to return, an area centered around these was the same phenomenon full professor, my second ques- an Armenian Studies Endowed but was rejected, even though dual cities,” stated Dr. Gutman. that caused the simultaneous tion was why would I need to Professorship. If in the future he was a naturalized United Dr. Gutman pointed out emergence of Armenian political endow a Chair? He replied, “Well a time came when Armenian States citizen and had served in three converging factors that organizations,” said Dr. Gutman. when you retire or if you should Studies was no longer taught the Army. He ended up going to made large-scale migration of “From the perspective of the leave before, what guarantee at Fresno State, then that another American Consulate in Armenians from specific cities Ottoman state, migration and do you have that the university endowment money had to be Alexandria, but was also rejected such as Kharpert possible in the emergence of these political will search for a replacement in transferred to an American there. 1885-1915. The first had to do networks are one of the same, Armenian Studies?” It seemed to University where Armenian Topalian’s story served as a with the missionary presence in even when the evidence doesn’t me that the answer to why was Studies was taught. If eventually, vehicle for many such examples the region. For example, there sustain that.” In Ohannes Top- self-evident; there was a large and a century or so later, Armenian that Dr. Gutman includes in his was a missionary institution, alian’s case, this policy was what generous Armenian community studies was no longer taught at recently published book, The Euphrates College, which pro- kept him from returning to his attached to the University and a university, the endowment was Politics of Armenian Migration duced many graduates who new adopted home, however, he hiring a replacement in my field to be transferred to a recognized to North America, 1885-1915: ended up migrating to the United would eventually return to the would be natural, if not automatic. Armenian charitable institution, Sojourners, Smugglers and States to further their education United States. Francois was not convinced and I believe the Armenian General Dubious Citizens (Edinburgh in American universities and Nonetheless, the outlawing at my insistence began to do Benevolent Union (AGBU) was Press, 2019). Dr. Gutman is to establish traditional rug bus- of migration didn’t stop the some research on the subject of specifically mentioned as an Associate Professor of History inesses in the United States. Armenians, and instead, they endowed chairs in the California example. at Manhattanville College, New The second factor had to do created sophisticated smuggling State University system. So did I. The announcement of an York and received his Ph.D. with the expansion of European networks. According to Dr. Gut- The first discovery was that endowment fund drive was in History from Binghamton steamship service that began man, they were very successful, among the 22 campuses in the made at the following Armenian University. to serve secondary ports in and often many Armenians would system at the time, there was only Studies Annual Banquet where Dr. Gutman was a Tuesday, the 1890s. In turn, this made return to the Ottoman Empire to one endowed position and that more than $10,000 was raised, March 10 guest speaker for travel cheaper and allowed seek a bride, to tend to elderly was not really a full endowment, including a generous $1,000 the Armenian Studies Program for Armenian men to continue parents, or because of feelings at California State University, San donation by University President Spring Lecture Series and his their pre-existing tradition of of homesickness. Dr. Gutman Francisco, if my memory serves Harold Haak. It was shortly after talk, “Sojourners, Smugglers, and temporary labor migrations also stated that these smuggling me well. The next question I posed this that Arnold Gazarian and I Dubious Citizens: The Politics outside the Ottoman Empire. networks were used until 1908 was obvious: how much are we were chatting one afternoon in of Armenian Migration to North The final factor was simply that when Abdul Hamid II was talking about? Richard Francois the hallway of the Leon Peters America, 1885-1915,” was based Kharpert was much more of a deposed. The only thing that the had no idea, so I encouraged him Business Building Auditorium on his recently published book. politically and economically new constitutional government to ask the Chancellor’s Office, when Arnold asked me what it Dr. Gutman’s research interests stable city in comparison to other considered illegal was when but they had no idea either, would take to name the Chair. revolve around the politics of majority Armenian cities in the Ottoman citizens returned as though they sent a two-paged Once again, I said I had no idea migration and migration control, eastern provinces of the Ottoman naturalized citizens of a foreign prepared document about such and found out that Richard the intersection of mobility Empire. Dr. Gutman explained state, without obtaining official an eventuality. Somehow with no Francois had none either. and citizenship, the social and that this made migration to the permission from the Ottoman apparent justification, a sum of Ultimately, I took the logical political history of Ottoman United States much easier and government. $300,000 was put forth. approach that half the project peripheries, and Ottoman Arm- less of a risk. Dr. Gutman gave a fascinating Two separate avenues toward endowment target of $300,000 enians in the last decades of the As migration took place early presentation explaining many such an endowment seemed plus one dollar would allow the Ottoman Empire. He became in the mid-1880s, Sultan Abdul little-known facts about the broad essential. The first was to donor to designate a name. Thus, interested in Armenian migration Hamid II became much more topic of Armenian migration to establish an Armenian Studies Arnold and Dianne Gazarian when he was doing research in paranoid and imposed restrictive the United States. Advisory Board from among chose to donate $151,000 and consular records located in the important members of the Fresno name the chair after Dianne’s United States archives. There Avetisyan, From Page 2 is considered individualistic, Armenian community, which was father and his father-in-law Haig he discovered the rich stories of musically. emotional, and dramatic. All of done with great care and lots of Berberian and his wife Isabel. The migration to the United States, Before Avetisyan concluded these characteristics are typical advice from those involved. I felt rest of the fund drive scheduled to sparking his more specific interest her wonderful evening full of joy of poetry, which is exactly the the Armenian Studies Program take a couple of year took only a in Armenian migration. and music, she performed Arno style Babadjanian was aiming for had to have such a body both to few months, thanks to community Dr. Gutman stated that Babadjanian’s “Poem.” when writing Poem in the 1960’s. represent the Program and back members like Sarkis Sahatdjian, approximately 75,000-80,000 This work was written Avetisyan did a magnificent job it. I was saddened when the who drove me around the valley Armenians, just like Ohannes expressly for a solo piano encapsulating the style of this Advisory Board was eventually to solicit funds from Armenian Topalian, came to the United States performance and is considered music. Her professionalism and dissolved. Secondly, I decided farmers. The rest is history, and during this thirty-year period. Dr. one of Babadjanian’s most many years of experience was to ask for the contracts and very happy history indeed. Gutman said that these estimates beautiful pieces. The music is evident through her performance details of the endowed chairs of came from several sources inspired by the Romantic style of of Poem, along with her other Armenian Studies at Harvard, Dickran Kouymjian which he believes are accurate. the 19th century. Romantic music performances of that evening. Columbia, and the University of 25 February 2020, Paris 4 Hye Sharzhoom May 2020 Congratulations Armenian Studies Minors and Graduating Seniors of 2019-2020 Marina Chardukian What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? Liberal Studies My favorite class was Armenian 1A and noticing how I was learning baseline Western Minor in Armenian Studies Armenian at a fairly quick pace. Though Armenian 1A and 1B were some of my more difficult classes, I felt fortunate to have the opportunity to take these language classes. What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies Another noteworthy class would be Arts of Armenia. The architecture component of course? this course gave me design inspiration for my Construction Management major. I wanted to really develop and connect with my What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? Armenian heritage. Listening to all the stories from my I valued the personal growth I developed while completing my Minor. I received a full grandparents made me want to learn more about the sponsorship to enroll at the American University of Armenia for Summer 2019. I am history of the Armenians that came before me. grateful for the Kashian family who sponsored me and thankful for the students and What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, professors who encouraged me to go. I had never flown by myself before, let alone activity, or event? out of the country, but the Armenian Studies Program gave me the tools to confidently I found all my classes interesting, but I really enjoyed the lecture series held every semester. travel and live overseas. My favorite class was when Prof. Der Mugrdechian took a group of us to Armenia in the What are your plans after graduation? summer of 2017. I have applied for Masters programs throughout the country involving environmental What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? sciences. I also applied for the Plant Science program at Fresno State. I would like to Besides getting to know my fellow Armenians, I cherish the everlasting friendships I have potentially enroll at the University of Oklahoma for their Ph.D. program in Planning, made with my peers throughout my years in the Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State. Design, and Construction, with a concentration in Landscape Architecture. For now, I What are your plans after graduation? am simply waiting to hear back from my Masters applications to see where that takes I plan to complete the Credential Program at Fresno State and become an elementary me. I do not know where I am going from here, but I promise it will not be boring. school teacher. I also plan to be a part of the Armenian community in Fresno and the many church organizations. Yervand Boyajyan Philosophy, Pre-Law Option David Safrazian Minor in Armenian Studies Biology Minor in Criminology Minor in Armenian Studies What encouraged you to take an Armenian What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies Studies course? course? My main motivation for taking course offered by I planned on coming to Fresno State for the sole reason the Armenian Studies Program was to familiarize that they had an Armenian Studies Program with myself more with my cultural heritage. I was born in Armenian Studies courses. I am very involved in the Yerevan and did not get much education in Armenia Armenian community and I wanted to take these courses because my family and I came to the United States to learn more about the history, art, and language of the when I was only seven-years-old. I was never really exposed to , Armenian people. language, writing, or reading. I thought taking Armenian Studies courses would bring What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? me up-to-date with all that I have missed throughout my childhood. Although I enjoyed every Armenian Studies class I took, Armenian Studies 20 and What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? Armenian 148 were my favorite because I enjoyed learning about the churches in Armenia My favorite classes were Armenian Studies 20, Arts of Armenia, and Armenian148, that I had the privilege of visiting. I also enjoyed being a member of the Armenian Students Masterpieces of Armenian Culture. In the former, I studied famous Armenian churches Organization and serving as the Treasurer and Vice-President. My favorite event was the and what makes those churches uniquely Armenian with Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian. Genocide Commemoration because planning an educational event to inform fellow students I was exciting learning about all the distinct details that distinguish an Armenian at Fresno State, as well as welcoming the Armenian community with poems, dancing, and Apostolic Church from all other churches around the world. In the latter, Prof. Hagop prayers, created a memorable experience. Ohanessian introduced me to an array of Armenian literature from various periods What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? of time in Armenian history. I was particularly interested in the writings of modern The friendships I have made and the people I have met throughout my time at Fresno State Armenian writers like William Saroyan, Daniel Varoujan, Hovhannes Toumanian, and is what I have valued the most. The first thing I did when I came to Fresno State was to go Khatchadour Abovian. to an Armenian Students Organization meeting. At the time, I only knew one student and What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? this was my way of getting to meet other fellow Armenians who had the same interests as I valued the education I received from Prof. Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Ohanessian, and me. I enjoyed being a writer for Hye Sharzhoom because I was able to critically think and Dr. Ümit Kurt. Four years of continuous education in , literature, write about events, which helped me become a better writer. I am very grateful that I had and history really was the most valuable thing I took away from the Armenian Studies the opportunity to go to Armenia with the Armenian Studies Program in both 2017 and Program. I am truly grateful to attend a university that offers such extensive education 2019. My first trip to Armenia was in 2017 and without going with Fresno State, I possibly in Armenian Studies. would have never been to Armenia, and for that I am truly grateful. What are your plans after graduation? What are your plans after graduation? I plan on attending law school. Fortunately, I have been accepted into Loyola Law In the fall, I will be attending CHSU College of Pharmacy in Clovis as the class of 2024. School in Los Angeles and will be a full-time student in the Fall as a member of the 2023 graduating class. My legal studies will have an emphasis on Criminal Law, International Criminal Law, Human Rights Law, and Trial Advocacy. Joseph Beltran History Minor in Armenian Studies Claire Kasaian Business Administration-Marketing What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies Minor in Armenian Studies course? I took my first Armenian Studies course because it fit What encouraged you to take an Armenian into my schedule, but that one class eventually made me Studies course? want to continue and learn more. That one class began I knew entering Fresno State that I was planning a journey that would end with me graduating with a to take Armenian Studies courses and pursue the Minor in Armenian Studies. Minor as well. I knew about Armenian history and culture growing up, but I was never really What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? involved in anything “Armenian.” I wanted to learn My favorite Armenian class was Armenian Studies 108B, Modern Armenian History, the more about my culture and make more friends who first Armenian class I took. This class taught me many things I was able to use in other were Armenian. My cousins, who took Armenian Studies courses at Fresno State, Armenian Studies courses. always talked about how much fun they were and how they remember people who What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? took the classes with them and Professor Der Mugrdechian. I wanted to have that I value everything I have learned over these past couple of years. I went into these classes experience too. not knowing anything to now knowing a great amount. I never thought going into college What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? that I would end up graduating with a Minor in Armenian Studies. My favorite Armenian Studies event was definitely going to Armenia in the summer of What are your plans after graduation? 2017. It was my first time going out of the country, except for Mexico. I was going with I will be going to law school. people my age and I knew it was a once in a lifetime experience. I learned so much and made many memories with my friends. The people who went on that trip are currently Michaela Zepure Walkup my closest friends today and I cannot imagine my life without them. Landscape Architecture Design- What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Studies Program? I valued the fact that everyone in the Armenian Studies Program is like a family. I Fresno State student Sarkis Tatarian. Plant Science & Construction Management Minor in Armenian Studies would have never met my best friends if it were not for the Program. Also, Prof. Der Mugrdechian, Dr. Ohanessian, and Dr. La Porta made each course fun and interesting. What encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies They have always been there to give me advice on classes or to write recommendation course? letters. Fresno State was my first-pick for college because I was What are your plans after graduation? aware they offered Western Armenian courses. I wanted I am not too sure what I am doing after graduation. I am waiting to hear back from to take full advantage of these Armenian language one college to attend graduate school for my MBA. Besides that, my goal is to work in classes to connect with my family. digital marketing for either a magazine or a clothing company. May 2020 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Graduating Minors in Armenian Studies Armenian Studies Program Hosts Successful

Cole Egoian “Armenian-American Musical Heritage” Day Business Administration- Bakirgian. Hagopian later formed Accountancy the well-known “Kef Time Minor in Armenian Studies Band,” which has performed throughout the United States. What encouraged you to take an Both Hagopian and Dr. Armenian Studies course? Türkyılmaz discussed how many I chose to take Armenian Studies village songs were “creatively courses and complete the Minor edited” upon their arrival in the because my Armenian heritage United States. Sometimes, these on my father’s side was always edits could amount to ten different something I was proud of, yet versions of a song based on each ignorant of in some ways. artist’s style. Another interesting What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? point Hagopian highlighted was One of my favorite courses in the Program was the Modern Armenian that sixty percent of Armenian History class because it put all the subject matter into the larger context songs were written with Turkish of Armenian identity. My other favorite was the short-term course, lyrics up until the 1960s. Armenian Armenians in Fresno, because it felt personally relevant as a 3rd musicians would frequently generation Central California Armenian. Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian borrow Turkish melodies and What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian Left to right: Dr. Yektan Türkyılmaz, Richard Hagopian, and rewrite them with Armenian Studies Program? Andrew Hagopian at the Feb. 29 “Musical Heritage” day. verses. These lyrics often re- Aside from the invaluable insight into my culture and history, the Carina Tokatian to inventory and catalog nearly flected the social conditions greatest thing to come from my time in the Program are the memories Staff Writer 1,500 recordings on 78-rpm discs immigrants encountered in and friendships I have developed with other Armenians and students from the Armenian-American America. For instance, the song, that have an interest in Armenian culture. “You don’t necessarily think diaspora. “Sheg Mazerov er” (She had What are your plans after graduation? of traditional Armenian music in Since then, Zakian has been Blonde Hair), centers around the I plan to get licensed as a Certified Public Accountant and build a the United States as having such working on interpreting and struggles of a musician searching career. I also plan on contributing to the Armenian community. complex roots because we are so cataloging these records with Dr. for an Armenian wife in America. familiar with it—but it does. It is Yektan Türkyılmaz, whose main Dr. Türkyılmaz conducted a Stephen Gonzalez interesting to put a spotlight on area of study is on the history guided conversation with Mr. History these aspects of life that we are of musical recordings in the Hagopian, revealing the rich Minor in Armenian Studies familiar with but may take for Eastern Mediterranean region history of Armenian music in granted,” stated Malina Zakian, and its Diaspora. Through Dr. the San Joaquin Valley. “Who What encouraged you to take an archivist for the Armenian Studies Türkyılmaz’s assistance, Zakian were these early Armenian- Armenian Studies course? Program. hopes they will be able to “curate American musicians?” asked After I took Armenian Studies Whether it was sheet music, and contextualize the collection” Dr. Türkyılmaz, to which Mr. 108A, Medieval Armenian photographs, or records, a large to make it more usable for the Hagopian responded with stories History, I wanted to learn more variety of Armenian-American community. “Part of this process of his earliest recollections of the about Armenians and share that musical archives were collected is to try to fill some of the gaps first musicians. knowledge with my best friend on Saturday, February 29 during that might be in the historical Though Hagopian indicated who is also Armenian. the “Armenian-American Musi- record,” said Zakian. “We are that many Armenian musicians What was your favorite Armenian Studies class, activity, or event? cal Heritage of the San Joaquin trying to understand the role settled on the East Coast, the My favorite Armenian Studies course had to be Armenian Studies 20, Valley” day organized by the music has played in life here as a Fresno Armenian community Arts of Armenia. Being able to see and talk about the different types of Armenian Studies Program and form of community expression.” has still fostered its own set of breathtaking art that Armenians produced was amazing. Professor Der held at Fresno State. The University Business bands and musicians with their Mugrdechian made each class interesting and I always went home with The “Musical Heritage” day Center Auditorium was filled by own distinct styles of playing. something exciting to show my parents. began at 1:00PM with a scanning the 3:30PM start of the concert Dr. Türkyılmaz emphasized how What did you value most from your experiences in the Armenian event followed by a musical and discussion. Dr. Yektan Fresno was “one of the most Studies Program? concert and discussion at 3:30PM Türkyılmaz, who earned his densely populated Armenian What I valued most from my experience was the ability to learn about in the University Business Center. doctorate in cultural anthropology settlements in America.” Because a culture rich with history and gain an understanding of a people that The purpose of the scanning from Duke University, was of this rich history, many San I share the world with. I also value my two trips to Armenia because I event was to encourage San invited from Berlin, Germany, Joaquin Valley residents like was able to witness what I read and learned about in class first-hand, as Joaquin Valley Armenian to moderate the discussion. Hagopian developed their own well as experience Armenia in a way that no book could ever teach me. community members to submit Dr. Türkyılmaz interviewed stories about music and dancing What are your plans after graduation? artifacts pertaining to Armenian internationally recognized oud events at Armenian coffeehouses My plans are to obtain my teaching credential and teach at the high music and heritage, especially master Richard Hagopian, and picnics. school level for a few years and then teach at the college level. items that date back to the early asking him questions which Even if they may be a part of twentieth century in America. gave an overview of the history Armenians’ history, these events Compiled by Sosse Baloian, Staff Writer Between 100 to 125 photographs of Armenian music in the San remain ongoing traditions as and musical scores were collected Joaquin Valley. Hagopian proved at the end of and digitized during the event. Hagopian shared his personal the concert. Handing over his oud “All Things Armenian” While items were being scanned, musical journey as well as for his grandson Andrew to play those who attended had the recounting humorous anecdotes and sing, he demonstrated that Sundays 2:00PM - 3:00PM opportunity to tour the University from throughout his life. His these songs have yet to bear more Business Center lobby and view fascination with the oud, a memories. informational boards, sheet music, Middle Eastern pear-shaped Through both digitized on Multicultural1600AM newspaper clippings, posters, and string instrument, motivated records and the continuation of

old photographs prepared by Van him at a young age to learn from live music, these archives and A live radio show with interesting interviews Der Mugrdechian. Meanwhile, oud masters such as Oudi Hrant traditions will be preserved for and original music. they could listen to Armenian Kenkulian and Oudi Garbis the next generation to relish. records play in the background. https://www.multicultural1600am.com/ This project, “Armenian- American Musical Heritage of the San Joaquin Valley,” was Now airing Wednesday Evenings made possible with support at 8:00PM in Southern California from California Humanities, a nonprofit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Visit www.calhum.org. Armenian Studies Program Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian has been collecting Armenian records donated by the SoCalArmenian.com and KLOS-FM 95.5HD3 community for more than thirty years. Two years ago, he and Zakian discussed plans on how to The Armenian Series of make the recordings available for

The Press at California State researchers and the public. The Photo: Alain Ekmalian Program successfully applied Zar Der Mugrdechian, left, and Mary Baloian at the “Musical University, Fresno for a Grammy Museum Grant Heritage” day scanning event. 6 Hye Sharzhoom May 2020 Dr. Şekeryan Presents Talk on Armenian Orphans and Refugees after First World War (1918-1923) encounters, administrators could learn a child’s identity based on their reactions. As an example, Dr. Şekeryan mentioned how an orphan’s identity was often revealed by witnessing a priest making the sign of the cross. To fundraise for the orphans, the Armenian community in Istanbul imposed its own tax on the Armenian community. Dr. Şekeryan specified how on some occasions, priests refused to perform religious ceremonies L. to R: Tahir Elçi, Raci Bilici, and Selahettin Demirtaş for Armenian families until commemorating the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 2015. they paid the tax. In addition, to Quest for Peace, From Page 1 Photo: ASP Archive gain support, Armenians were destruction of Dersim, the torture of the 100th anniversary of the Photo: Andrew Hagopian Photo: Andrew encouraged to adopt children or of thousands of political prisoners Armenian Genocide on 24 April Dr. Ari Şekeryan, the 16th Kazan Visiting Professor in Ar- purchase expensive certificates in Turkish jails during the 1980s, 2015, Diyarbakir was again a menian Studies, with students and faculty after the lecture. as a way to harness a positive and the oppression of Kurds in major focal point in the struggle Carina Tokatian to return them to the Armenian rivalry between the donors. the Turkish Republic. for the public recognition of Staff Writer community. In addition, influ- Yet, not all Ottoman Armenians Yet, from the moment of its this historical crime. The main ential Armenian leaders such as maintained a suitable income to appearance, the monument was Kurdish political party in Turkey, On Thursday, March 5, Dr. Boghos Nubar Pasha encouraged support orphans and refugees as associated with the Armenian the HDP (Peoples’ Democratic Ari Şekeryan spoke on the topic the “unification and repatriation the “Horror in Tokat” proved. Genocide of 1915. At the Party), chose Diyarbakir to of “The Survivors: Armenian of refugees.” Eight refugee Inspired by Mustafa Kemal’s unveiling ceremony, Abdullah highlight the wrongs suffered Orphans and Refugees After the camps and ten orphanages Turkish National Movement in Demirbaş, the mayor of the Sur by the Armenians. The Kurdish First World War (1918-1923),” were established in Istanbul to 1919, Turks boycotted Armenian municipality responsible for the elected officials who participated the second lecture of a three-part assist refugees from Anatolia. businesses in Tokat, and in monument, stated that, before in this event represented millions series on “Armenians in Istanbul However, Dr. Şekeryan stated that other areas, leading to further discussing the violence suffered of people. Diyarbakir – the during the Post Armistice Period.” these locations often contained impoverishment of the Armenian by the Kurds in Turkey, the Kurds unofficial “capital” of Turkish Dr. Şekeryan is the Kazan unsatisfactory conditions. For community. Dr. Şekeryan drew themselves should recognize Kurdistan – had clearly become Visiting Professor in Armenian example, there were sanitary attention to similar boycotts the violence that their ancestors the showcase for the recognition Studies for the Spring semester. A issues and food shortages present toward Armenian businesses meted on Armenians [and of the Armenian Genocide in graduate of Oxford’s Department in refugee camps. In orphanages, in Greece. These Armenian or- Assyrians] in 1915. His words Turkey. of Oriental Studies, he is currently children sometimes slept on the phans were sponsored by the were taken as an act of contrition Sadly, the euphoria did not working on a book, An Untold floor and consumed only bread Near East Relief organization in many circles, and some stated last. Within a few months, Story of Survival. In the 2018- and tea, an insufficient diet and by Armenians in Istanbul, that the monument actually Turkey descended into civil 2019 academic year, Dr. Şekeryan lacking in protein. Nevertheless, and were moved to Corfu, constituted a public recognition unrest. The murder of Tahir Elçi was an Honorary Fellow at orphanages sought to preserve Greece. Unfortunately, when they of the Armenian Genocide by the in Diyarbakir was a watershed the University of Wisconsin- the children’s Armenian identity, arrived, they were met by Italian Kurdish community of Turkey. moment that led to serious clashes Madison, Institute for Research language, and culture. One or- bombardment. Dr. Şekeryan noted The erection of such a between Kurdish militants and in the Humanities. phanage even held Olympic- how the Italians were informed monument in Diyarbakir was not Turkish security forces. The latter The presentation was like sports competitions for the of the group’s refugee status, surprising. The city had already responded with heavy artillery sponsored by the Armenian children. yet, they still continued to shell been at the forefront of addressing and flattened a huge part of Studies Program and the Clara Identifying Armenian orphans the refugees. As a consequence, the legacy of 1915 in Turkey by historic Diyarbakir. The entire Bousian Bedrosian Fund, and was posed a challenge in itself. Dr. sixteen refugees were killed and working to openly acknowledge Kurdish southeast of Turkey held in the University Business Şekeryan labeled it as an “orphan three times this amount were its history, and to nurture its was placed under direct rule by Center, Alice Peters Auditorium. hunting race” between Armenians wounded. The remainder of re- historic Armenian community. Ankara, with the declaration of Dr. Şekeryan initially began and Turks to discover Armenian fugees continued to live and These aims were advanced a state of emergency. The region his presentation by explaining orphans. One particular orpha- thrive in Greece, successfully through public education became a “black hole” of human his fascination with Armenians in nage, the Neutral House, establishing and managing their regarding the city’s multi- rights abuses as the Turkish state Istanbul and Anatolia during the sheltered children with unclear own businesses. Yet, boycotts cultural heritage and Armenians, dismissed elected officials and Armistice period of 1918-1923, backgrounds for a ten-day interrupted this short-lived period rebuilding Sourp Giragos Church brutalized civilians. Kurdish which immediately followed period while its administrators of prosperity as Greeks pressured (today the largest Armenian politicians and activists were World War I. He observed attempted to learn their true the large refugee population to church in the Middle East), forced to go underground, or to how scholars typically focus identities. Some orphans were move elsewhere. and supporting conferences, flee their homeland entirely. on outside relief organizations fearful of revealing their ethnicity Despite all that they endured concerts, and exhibitions related Despite these latest setbacks, such as the American Near East because of threats they received as a result of the Genocide, to Armenians. the hopes and aspirations Relief, the British Lord Mayor’s from the Muslim families they Armenians in Istanbul proved On April 24, 2014, the “Mon- expressed by the “Monument to Refugee Fund, and the American were living with. In spite of determined to get back on ument to Common Conscience” Common Conscience,” and the Red Cross and their work in this, administrators successfully their feet during the Armistice. assumed a more overt character Kurdish-Armenian reconciliation northern Syria and the Caucasus. identified some children by Through their aid to orphans and when it was used by Diyarbakir’s process that accompanied it, However, the large Armenian exposing them to Armenian refugees and resettlement across municipal government as the main have not faded. Kurdish civil population in Istanbul and the lullabies or by their interactions the globe their perseverance was venue for the commemoration society organizations, pro- eastern provinces of the Ottoman with other Armenians. From these clearly manifested. of the Armenian Genocide. The fessional bodies, and political Empire is often understudied. In significance of this event was parties have remained open to Peters, From Page 1 purchased the company. Valley fact, Dr. Şekeryan highlighted Foundry became a world highlighted by the presence constructive dialogue. They how the Istanbul Armenian com- expresses its appreciation to recognized supplier of equipment of Kurdish intellectuals and have recognized the Armenian munity itself donated almost the Foundation Board and its to the agricultural industry. politicians. The main speaker, Genocide and sought Kurdish- $1 million in relief aid during current President, Mr. Kenneth Leon and Alice Peters have a Tahir Elçi, a human rights activist Armenian reconciliation without the Armistice, an amount that Peters. The late founder of the long connection to Fresno State, and head of the Diyarbakir Bar preconditions. exceeded donations collected Foundation, Mr. Leon S. Peters with the Leon S. Peters Business Association, was categorical in his The core question now from outside relief organizations. and his late wife Alice Peters Building being named for him, frank discussion of the Armenian remains: what would be the Dr. Şekeryan stated that there were supporters of the Program honoring the spirit of the man Genocide and condemnation of best way to address the legacy were many Armenian orphans as Leon S. Peters was born in who served on the University modern-day Turkey for its refusal of the genocide and reintegrate a consequence of the Genocide. Fowler, California, and graduated President’s Advisory Board, the to come to terms with its dark Armenians into the social fabric Some of these orphans, especially from Fowler High School as Fresno State Foundation Board of past. of their ancestral lands in Turkey? young boys, were driven from valedictorian. He worked daily Governors, and the University’s Many Armenians rejoiced at the This question can only be their homes and compelled on his father’s ranch, helped Agricultural Board. For his many spectacle of such developments, answered with the participation to serve in Muslim families. raise his siblings and also did contributions to Fresno State, especially on territories where the of more Armenians in the historic Fortunately, the new Ottoman custom tractor work in what Leon S. Peters was posthumously Armenian Genocide had actually processes at play. government, which succeeded the little spare time he had. Leon’s awarded the honorary degree of been executed by the Ittihadist Committee of Union and Progress industrious and enterprising Doctor of Humane Letters by regime. While official Ankara • Ara Sarafian is a historian and (CUP) in 1918, ordered the return nature soon caught the attention The California State University continued to deny the genocide, the Executive Director of the of Armenian orphans and women of the manager of Valley Foundry in 1997. Kurdish intellectuals in Turkey’s Gomidas Institute in London. to their families. The Armistice of and Machine Works. He was The Armenian Studies mountainous southeast were He has been active in peace Mudros also secured the right to offered a job, worked his way Program honors the memory of coming to terms with the issue. and reconciliation projects in search for these individuals and up to manager and eventually Leon S. and Alice Peters. One year later, on the occasion Diyarbakir since 2012. May 2020 Hye Sharzhoom 7 Armenian Studies Program Dr. Şekeryan Discusses the Role of Patriarch 32nd Annual Banquet Donors Zaven Der Yeghiayan During Armistice Period Table Sponsors solution to cease his efforts. Dr. Şekeryan further highlighted that Armenian General Benevolent Union, Fresno Chapter Patriarch Zaven, as the leader George Ignatius Foundation: Trustees George Phillips, Sr., of the Armenian community in Esq.,Walter Karabian, Esq., Michael Amerian, Esq., the Ottoman Empire, closely Attorney Benjamin Karabian, Esq. witnessed the death march of the Arnold & Dianne Gazarian Armenians to the Syrian desert and conditions of the survivors Valley Children’s Healthcare in Aleppo and other cities in Benefactors Northern Syria. Dr. Vahaken Arslanian The third part of the lecture Knights of Vartan, Yeprad Lodge focused on efforts of Patriarch Patrons Zaven during the Armistice years to save the remnants of Varouj & Lena Altebarmakian, Judge Marvin & Jane the Armenian Genocide, and his Baxter, Kenneth & Jane Bedrosian, Nerces Leon active participation in the political Dermenjian, Jim & Linda Parnagian, Arlen Pilavian, efforts of Armenian delegations Supervisor Sal Quintero, Selma Triple X Fraternity to secure independence for the Photo: Andrew Hagopian Friends Dr. Ari Şekeryan “United Armenia” state. “United Staff Report Patriarchate of Constantinople Armenia” was planned to be Richard & Ellen Erganian, Sarah Hamilton, in the political developments established in an area covering Artin & Armine Jibilian, Bernard & Marion Karian, Dr. Ari Şekeryan was sche- concerning the Armenian the Republic of Armenia and Joanne A. Peterson duled to give the third of his community during the Armistice the six Eastern provinces of the Sponsors three-part lecture series on years (1918-1923). Ottoman Empire. Patriarch Zaven Mr. & Mrs. Seth Atamian, Karl DeKlotz, Patricia Peterson “Armenians in the Istanbul in the Dr. Şekeryan is the Kazan returned to Constantinople in Armistice Period,” on Thursday, Visiting Professor in Armenian 1919 following the occupation of Hansen, Allan & Rosemary Jendian, Carol Karabian, April 2. Due to the Coronavirus Studies for the Spring semester. A the Ottoman capital by the Allied Mr. & Mrs. Robert Manselian, Ed Minasian, outbreak, the lecture was post- graduate of Oxford’s Department troops. He immediately organized Dr. Hartune Neffian, Edward & Roseann Saliba, poned, however, a summary of the of Oriental Studies, he is currently committees under the authority of David & Carrie Young, Kathy & Archie Zakarian lecture is provided below. working on a book, An Untold the Patriarchate to support the Supporters Story of Survival, and an article relief efforts for the Armenian In this lecture, “The Armenian pertaining to Armenian orphans orphans and refugees. In addition Alice & Karnig Alajajian, Tatoul Badalian, Patriarchate, Politics and the in Corfu. to his efforts to organize relief Mark Bohigian, Dr. Arsine Oshagan Postwar Settlement in Istanbul: The first part of Dr.Şekeryan’s activities, he became actively Thank you to an Anonymous donor the Story of Patriarch Zaven,” lecture focused on the early life involved in the political life of for their donation of wine. Dr. Şekeryan covered the topic of of Zaven Der Yeghiayan who the community, as a leader and the involvement of the Armenian was the Armenian Patriarch representative of Armenians of Constantinople between living in the Ottoman Empire. ASP Scholarships, From Page 1 1913-1922. Dr. Şekeryan high- Patriarch Zaven participated Armenian Professional Society Charlie Keyan Scholarship Leon S. Peters Armenian lighted that Der Yeghiayan in the Paris Peace Conference of San Francisco Scholarship Suzanna Ekmekchyan, Angela Studies Scholarship became a bishop and prelate and worked to unite the two Dustin Vartanian Soghomonian, Carina Tokatian Yervand Boyajyan, Stephen Gon- for Dikranagerd and served in delegations representing the zalez, Hovsep Harutyunyan, Luke the Armenian provinces such Armenian nation: one for the Kevork Ajamian Scholarship Elizabeth Koojoolian Karagozian, Garo Minasian, as Erzurum, Van, and Bitlis. Armenians living in the Caucasus (donated by Dr. & Mrs. Sergio Scholarship Emily Oganyan, Tatiana Samouie Before becoming the Patriarch and the Republic of Armenia La Porta) Marina Chardukian, of Constantinople, Bishop and the other the delegation Stephen Gonzalez Andrew Hagopian Pete P. Peters Armenian Zaven became familiar with the representing the Armenians in Studies Scholarship community life and sufferings the Ottoman Empire. Patriarch G. Franklin Antoyan Thomas A. Kooyumjian Family Joseph Beltran, Cole Egoian, Ar- of the Armenian population in Zaven worked with the prominent Scholarship Foundation Scholarship thur Khatchatrian, Matthew King, the provinces. Dr. Şekeryan members of these delegations Angela Soghomonian Arshak Abelyan, Lilit Aroutiou- Matthew Mugrdechian, Christine stated that the experience that such as Boghos Nubar and Avedis nian, Dikran Dzhezyan, Arthur Pambukyan, David Safrazian, Bishop Zaven acquired in the Aharonian. Nerces & Ruth Azadian Khatchatrian, Matthew King, Ani Sargsyan, Valerya Sargsyan, Armenian provinces was unique Dr. Şekeryan cited articles Memorial Scholarship Tatiana Samouie, Anahid Yerdo- Anahid Yerdoglyan, Rita Yerdo- in the sense that it helped him to from the Armenian and Ottoman Andrew Hagopian glyan, Rita Yerdoglyan glyan unite the Armenian community Turkish press about the activities in Constantinople with the Ar- of these delegations and argued Clara Bousian Bedrosian Yervant, Rose, & Hovannes Robert V. Saroyan Family menians living in the provinces, that “all strata of the Armenian Armenian Scholarship Levonian Scholarship Scholarship because he became fully aware community, including political Suzanna Ekmekchyan, Khori Cranford, Takui Frnzyan, Hovsep Harutyunyan of the expectations and internal parties, businessmen and in- Mark Soghomonian Ariana Garabedian, Jacob Hopa- problems of these communities. tellectuals, united for the estab- lian, Gregory Krikorian, Lilit Oh- Walter Sepetjian Scholarship During his time in the provinces, lishment of the Armenian state Dr. Vartan and Sossie Djabray- anyan, Melina Peters Ariana Garabedian he became familiar with the during the Armistice years.” an Scholarship, in memory of relations between the Kurdish However, following the defeat of Sossie’s beloved parents, Isabel Lion Memorial Genevieve Tatoian Scholarship tribes and local Armenians, the the Greek forces by the Turkish Nazareth and Nvere Ohannessian Scholarship Ariana Garabedian activities of the Armenian political National Movement led by Dikran Dzhezyan, Haverj Stanboulian parties, and the policies of local Mustafa Kemal and the evacuation Christine Pambukyan Telfeyan Evangelical Ottoman officials regarding the of Cilicia by the French forces, James L. Melikian & Scholarship Armenian peasants. Dr. Şekeryan Patriarch Zaven was forced to Bertha & John Garabedian L.A. Brothers Scholarship Claire Kasaian cited numerous sources, such as leave Constantinople in 1922 Foundation Scholarship Erik Abrahamyan, Garo Minasian newspaper articles and archival because the leaders of the Turkish Arshak Abelyan, Cole Egoian, Harry & Mary Topoozian documents, which he himself had National Movement labeled Stephen Gonzalez, Rachel Kap- John & Lucille Melkonian Merit Scholarship translated from Armenian and him as a “traitor.” Patriarch tryan, Ashley Movsesian, Davit Armenian Scholarship Dustin Vartanian Ottoman Turkish into English. Zaven managed to escape from Sargsyan, Valerya Sargsyan, Kara Caleb Arizmendez The second part of Dr. Constantinople to Bulgaria in Şekeryan’s lecture focused on the 1922 with the help of the British Statler, Adrine Tokatian, Christo- Koren & Alice Odian Triple X, Selma Chapter Genocide of 1915. Bishop Zaven and spent the rest of his life in pher Toukhmanian Kasparian Scholarship Armenian Scholarship was elected as the Patriarch Mosul, Iraq. Arshak Abelyan Yervand Boyajyan Donald J. Garabedian of Constantinople in 1913. He “The story of Patriarch Armenian Scholarship Commissioner John Ohanian Warren Paboojian Award was exiled by the Committee Zaven uniquely demonstrates Marina Chardukian Scholarship for Hye Sharzhoom Editor of Union and Progress (CUP) the leadership of the Armenian Sosse Baloian Andrew Hagopian government to Mosul during the Patriarchate during a time of Albert & Isabelle Kabrielian Armenian Genocide because of chaos and political turmoil Scholarship Charles K. and Pansy Pategian Knights of Vartan, his efforts to stop the deportation following the Genocide and its Zlokovich Endowed Mark Soghomonian Yeprad Lodge Scholarship orders of the CUP leaders in unifying power in the political Scholarship Ariana Garabedian, Constantinople. Patriarch Zaven decision-making,” stated Dr. Armen Kandarian Scholarship Violeta Agabekyan, Adrine Tokatian held meetings with European Şekeryan. His presentation illu- Kristina Melikyan Michaela Walkup ambassadors in Constantinople minated a crucial and hitherto to stop the killings, and the understudied area of the history CUP regime deported him as a of Ottoman Armenians. 8 Hye Sharzhoom May 2020 April 24, From Page 1 spent approximately seven years separated from his family during the Genocide. As the Ottomans were perpetrating genocide against his countrymen, Thomas worked as an intelligence officer in the British army in Egypt and Palestine. Though his career was dangerous, he was safe from the tragedies that his people endured. At first, Thomas was able to keep some track of his family, but he eventually lost all contact with them as they fled. Meanwhile, Thomas was bombarded with reports of the atrocities his people Fresno State President Dr. Joseph Castro, right, headed an were facing in his homeland. Photo: Courtesy Michael Rettig April 24 ceremony organized by campus leaders. Dr. Cas- He understandably worried Left to right, back row: Arpeny, Arax. Seated: Thomas Muger- tro, Debbie Adishian-Astone, V. P. for Administration (cen- greatly about his family, and the ditchian, Esther Mugerditchian, Mampreh Dombourjian ter), and Prof. Der Mugrdechian (left) also spoke. separation wore heavily on him. (Esther’s brother) Children standing front: Armineh, Alice. Photo: University Brand Strategy and Marketing, Fresno State Thomas finally learned that Children seated front: Yervant, Zenop, Arsen. Armenians, from page 1 the 19th century. In his article, his family made it safely out of the fact that he had not yet heard April 24 has always been a day Armenians and Kurds in the “In the Wake of the Aghtamar the Ottoman Empire in the fall from his wife and daughters and of great heartache, but also great Later Ottoman Empire has five Catholicosate’s Demise: The of 1916. His son Yervant wrote did not know if they had escaped joy for me. On this day, I feel original articles, which were Report on the 1895 Van Massa- a letter from Tiflis on behalf of from Russia. the pain passed down from the first presented at a conference cre by the Last Aghtamar the family, notifying his father of “I have no news from your stories of our ancestors, but it is entitled “Armenians, Greeks, and Catholicos Khachadour II,” their safety. sisters and mother, who are your also the one day our community Kurds: A People’s History of the Emre Can Dağlıoğlu argues that “My dear father, you will flesh and blood. You can imagine gathers in its entirety, from the Ottoman Empire” organized by the Hamidian massacres in this be surprised to get a letter from how upset I am, living away Armenians who have been in Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian region were directly related to the us from Russia. Moreover, you from my motherland. My only Fresno since the Genocide, to of the Armenian Studies Program breakup of longstanding Kurdish- would be joyful to know your pleasure in life is reading your those who have come from and by Dr. Ümit Kurt. The Armenian social relations. children were lost, but found; letters. They give me hope and other Diasporan communities, conference was held at Fresno Nilay Özok-Gündoğan’s destined to death, but brought to strength to cope with this life. I and those from the Republic of State on September 22-23, 2017 work is of seminal importance to life again. God heard our prayers, hope and believe that one day we Armenia. I have always taken and was supported by a grant the understanding of Armenian and with his powerful hand, will come together as a family, heart in this togetherness. This from the Thomas A. Kooyumjian history and broader histories of saved us from the condemned feeling happy and praising God. year has already been hard for Family Foundation. the Middle East. Her article, “Are and bloodstained country...If you No matter what happens—always many of us, but we have faced The book, edited by Ara the Voices of the Ordinary Kurds want to listen to our complete stay positive and joyful.” worse as a people. Sarafian and Dr. Ümit Kurt, is Salvageable from the Enormous story…take us to you, will you?” Finally, on August 22, 1918, I reflect on Thomas, who spent a seminal work in the field of Condescension of Posterity? An This reunion would be Thomas received a telegram from seven years away from his wife Ottoman history. The volume ex- Agenda for Social History in impossible for several more the American General Consul and seven children. All of us have plores the relationship between Kurdish Historical Writings,” years. In 1917, Thomas entered in London, informing him that these stories, and so few of them Turks, Armenians, and Kurds, reflects on the methodical ex- Palestine with the British Egyptian “Your wife and the girls are going end in a happy reunion. I reflect and brings a new understanding clusion of Kurds in mainstream Expeditionary Force in their through major financial needs.” on his words to his wife in 1919: to the dynamics that shaped these historiographies of the Middle attempt to force the Ottomans out Thomas immediately wrote his “We will make prosper everything interactions. East. of the war. Meanwhile, his wife wife, “by receiving this telegram, the enemies once destroyed. Pull The first three articles focus on Varak Ketsemanian’s work, and daughters were separated I realized that, together with the yourself up, darling, and never the Hamidian massacres of 1895- “Ideologies Paradoxes, and from his sons as they fled to safety children…you had safely reached be afraid of anything. No matter 96. They track societal changes Fedayis in the Late Ottoman through revolution-torn Russia. London. My eyes filled with tears what happens—always stay to better explain the Hamidian Empire: Historiographical Chal- In the Fall of 1918, Thomas of joy. My dear Esther, I hadn’t positive and joyful.” massacres in Cilicia, Aintab, lenges and Methodological wrote longingly to his sons, as heard from you since January It might just be this year that and the bishoprics of Aghtamar. Problems in the Study of the Ar- they were the first to reach safety. and was about to go crazy. My we are not able to commemorate Owen Miller, in the first article, menian Revolutionary Movement In these letters, he encouraged heart and soul were trembling, as a community, it might be more. “Uplands, Lowlands, and Mass (1890–1896),” is an important his sons to become successful and I spent many days and nights Nobody really knows how long Violence in Ottoman Cilicia,” critique of the historiography and buy farmland in America, praying for you. I wish I could this virus will alter our lives, but looks at Ottoman Cilicia, with a defining the Armenian revo- “enough to feed our family.” somehow appear next to you I do know with certainty that we particular focus on Zeitun. Ümit lutionary movement in the late “This is the only way you will and give hugs to you, and our will be here to commemorate Kurt’s “The Breakdown of a Ottoman period. be able to liberate your mother children. My soul and all of my together when this passes, in Previously Peaceful Coexistence: and sisters from this chaos. When thoughts are always with you.” every corner of the world, as we The Aintab Armenian Massacres Armenians and Kurds in the we manage to liberate them and Thomas informed his wife that have for decades. We will make of 1895,” looks at major changes Later Ottoman Empire will be bring them home, it will be much their three sons were also safe prosper, no matter the hardships. in material conditions and available, after June 1, through easier for me to come back to in America, preparing a place the availability of communal Amazon or by contacting the you.” for them in Fresno, California. It resources over the course of Armenian Studies Program. His letters reflect an anxiety at took Thomas several more years to reach Fresno from Egypt, but in May 1921, he arrived in Fresno HYE SHARZHOOM to reunite with his family. This April, we too find NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT ourselves separated from our loved ones and community. Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. We were not able to gather to Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with commemorate our shared trauma donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of and to celebrate the life we were increased mailing costs. able to build here in Fresno. Yervant’s letter to his father. Thank You Donors Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation of: $ Annette Apelian Studio City Richard Asadoorian Bend, OR Name: David Barsamian Pasadena Jane Gamoian Fresno Dian & Larry Karabian Shaver Lake Address: City: State: Zip: Paulette Janian Melkonian Fresno Irma Noroian Fresno Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno Armenian Studies Program George & Rose Marie Samuelian Fresno California State University, Fresno in memory of Margaret Shapazian 5245 N. Backer Ave PB4 Stan, Barbara, Cary, and Alison Tusan Phoenix, OR Fresno CA 93740-8001 in memory of Frances Tusan and Los Angeles