MAY 5, 2012

THE ARMENIAN

Mirror -Spe ctaItn Ouor Mirror -Spe ctatror 80th Year Volume LXXXII, NO. 42, Issue 4237 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Karabagh Soldier Dies

JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO Obama again From Azeri Gunshot STEPANAKERT (Arminfo) — An Armenian soldier, Breaks Promise to Hovhannes Nikoghosian, died from a gunshot wound in one of the units of the Nagorno- Commemorate Karabagh defense army on Friday after shots were fired from across the border. Armenian Genocide The Azerbaijani side reportedly violated the ceasefire, at the line of contact between the Karabagh and Azerbaijani armed forces, more than By Olivier Knox 500 times in the past week.

WASHINGTON (Yahoo News) — One day Armenian Communists after paying a solemn visit to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, President Mark May Day Barack Obama on Tuesday, April 24, called YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Hundreds of supporters of the mass killings of Armenians at the hands the Armenian Communist Party (HKK) demon - of the Ottoman Turks in 1915 “one of the strated in the city’s center on Tuesday, May 1, in a worst atrocities of the 20th century” but May Day celebration that attracted a rare media again broke a 2008 campaign promise to spotlight for its election campaign. label the tragedy “genocide.” Holding red flags and banners, they marched “We honor the memory of the 1.5 million through Republic Square, which was once domi - Armenians who were brutally massacred or nated by a huge statue of the Soviet Union’s marched to their deaths in the waning days Communist founder, Vladimir Lenin. The proces - of the Ottoman Empire,” Obama said in a sion ended in a nearby park where HKK leaders written statement on Armenian addressed the mostly elderly and teenage crowd on Remembrance Day. the occasion. “A full, frank and just acknowledgement The party’s first secretary, Ruben Tovmasian, also of the facts is in all of our interests. Moving mentioned the upcoming parliamentary elections in his forward with the future cannot be done speech. An HKK appeal to the nation read out by anoth - without reckoning with the facts of the er Communist leader, urged Armenians to vote for the past,” Obama said in a implicit appeal for party, saying that only the HKK can guarantee employ - vital American ally Turkey to move closer to ment and worker rights. recognizing the massacre. The HKK was a major political force in the Turkey, a NATO member, fiercely dis - 1990s, winning roughly 10 percent of the vote in putes the genocide charge, and has warned presidential and parliamentary elections. However, that formal US steps to use the term will it failed to gain parliament seats in 2003 and has hamper relations. Turkey’s Ambassador to not been represented in the National Assembly Washington Namik Tan sharply criticized a since then. Barbara and Donald Tellalian in front of the Heritage Park sculpture similar statement from Obama in 2011, tak - ing to Twitter to denounce it as inaccurate, flawed and one-sided. Aronofsky to Direct On October 2, 2008, the Armenian- Heritage Park Monument Unveiled American newspapers published a letter Noah’s Ark Film see OBAMA, page 7 PEABODY, Mass. — The Armenian HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (Huffington Post) — Russell By Alin K. Gregorian Genocide monument that will be the Crowe will play Noah in Darren Aronofsky’s Noah’s Ark focal point of the Armenian Heritage movie, “Noah.” Crowe’s casting was first reported two Mirror Spectator Staff Park in Boston later this year was months ago, and since then it has become official. unveiled at a reception sponsored and New York Times Square “I rejoice that Russell Crowe will be by my side hosted by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan at the birthplace of that monu - Armenian Genocide on this adventure,” Aronofsky, director of “Black ment, A&A Industries. Swan,” said in a statement. “It’s his immense talent A&A Industries, owned and operated by Anahid and Aurelian Mardiros and Commemoration Defies that helps me to sleep at night. I look forward to their sons, is a high-precision cutting facility which specializes mostly in high- being wowed by him every day.” tech applications. The Mardiros family has donated the sculpture to the The Weather Crowe’s involvement in “Noah” was initially Armenian Heritage Park. revealed back in February by Deadline.com, and Guests strolled around the facilities and took pictures in front of the abstract the actor took to Twitter to confirm the news that sculpture, a split dodecahedron designed by architect Donald Tellalian. Café-style By Lucine Z. Kinoian he was “eyeing” the project. The potential casting small tables were set on the floor of the factory, and food and drinks lent the was re-confirmed by Deadline.com in March. event a light atmosphere. NEW YORK — More than 1,000 Liam Neeson is also rumored to star but as yet see UNVEILING, page 10 Armenians and Armenian Genocide recog - he has not been added to the cast. nition supporters alike gathered in “virtual Production on “Noah” begins this summer. Times Square” to commemorate the first Paramount has set the film for a March 2014 release. genocide of the 20th century on Sunday, April 22. The commemoration took place in Mirror-Spectator Presents Gregory Adamian the Kavookjian Hall of St. Vartan Cathedral to avoid the inclement weather. The hall was INSI DE 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award at May Gala crowded with standing-room-only and many observers listened through speakers that By Aram Arkun were set up across the vestibule and up the marble staircase to the lobby of the build - Lowell Mirror-Spectator Staff ing. An anchor group of volunteers was left in Times Square, with stage and posters, to WATERTOWN, Mass. — As was preserve our permit for future years. Memorial announced last January, Dr. Gregory This annual commemoration, organized Harry Adamian, president emeritus and by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan Story on page 7 chancellor of Bentley College, is being under the chairmanship of Hirant Gulian, awarded the 2012 Lifetime Achievement drew busloads of people from all over the Award at the Armenian Mirror- tri-state area. The event is given support Spectator ’s benefit gala, “Celebrating 80 from all major Armenian-American organi - Years and Beyond.” The celebration will zation in the United States, all Armenian INDEX take place on May 24. churches from New York, New Jersey, Arts and Living ...... 13 Adamian’s life story is an example of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, as well as Armenia ...... 2, 3 the rapid path to success accessible in local college and university student groups, Community News...... 5 the United States to Armenian immi - many of whom were present. Individuals Editorial ...... 17 grants and their children. Dr. Gregory Adamian came from as far as away as California, International ...... 4 see ADAMIAN, page 11 Michigan and upstate New York. see COMMEMORATION, page 9 2 S ATURDAY , MA Y 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for AGBU’s New Office Building in Yerevan

Germany to Provide 40 YEREVAN — On Friday, April 13, the this 13th day of Million Euros to groundbreaking ceremony of the new April, 2012, during Armenian General Benevolent Union the presidency of Armenia for Renewable (AGBU) office building took place. Berge Setrakian, Presided over by Bishop Hovnan the blessing cere - Energy Development Hakobyan, grand sacristan of the mony of the YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Germany’s state-owned Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, the Armenian General development bank is likely to provide support in ceremony was attended by AGBU Benevolent the amount 40 million euros to Armenia, for imple- Central Board member Vasken Union’s new office mentation of programs toward renewable energy. Yacoubian, head of the Republic of building took According to bloomberg.com, this is the next Armenia Government’s Committee for place in the round of the program, which was launched in 2007. Coordinating Humanitarian Projects Capital by the In the first round, 24 million euros had been pro- Simon Ter-Simonyan and special hand of His Grace vided toward the development of water energy. guests, as well as AGBU’s local staff, Bishop Hovnan scouts and members. Remarks were Hakobyan, Grant made by both Yacoubian, who Sacristan of the Serge Sargisian Pushes explained the intricate details of the Mother See of Message being placed in the time capsule by AGBU Central construction, and AGBU Armenia Holy Echmiadzin.” Board member Vasken Yacoubian For Development of Representation Interim Director Hovig Though AGBU Eordekian. Following the blessing, a has been active Tourism in Garni the construction of its own office build - time capsule was lowered by Yacoubian and present continuously in Armenia, it ing on Melik-Adamian Street, adjacent into the foundation of the building con - was not until recently that the organi - GARNI (Armenpress) — Tourism in Armenian to the Republic of Armenia Government taining the following statement: “On zation purchased land and commenced provinces should be developed, both for domestic building in the center of Yerevan. The and foreign tourists, President Serge Sargisian said six-story facility, in addition to two on April 30, during a visit before the elections. underground parking levels, will be “Garni is well known among Armenians, a kind of built on a land area of 1,380 square open-air museum. It is one of the visiting-cards of our meters, with a total area of 6,700 country. There are serious grounds for tourism devel- square meters. The structure will offer opment in the country,” Sargisian said. modern amenities with fully-equipped He urged voters to participate in the May 6 elec- office space, conference rooms and exhi - tions. bition halls. The new building will pre - serve the architectural aspects of Old Shushi to Host Artsakh Yerevan by delicately blending new and environmentally-friendly features with Wedding Project the historical façade of the old building that was once built on a neighboring SHUSHI (PanARMENIAN.Net) — The Artsakh street. Wedding Project will be presented here on the In addition to serving as the main occasion of 20th anniversary of Shushi’s liberation headquarters of AGBU in Armenia, the on May 8. Gagik Ginosyan, director of the Karin building will allow for the expansion of song and dance ensemble, will stage the dances for The groundbreaking ceremony and blessing of the new AGBU office building in the organization’s existing educational, the performance. Yerevan, currently under construction cultural, humanitarian and youth pro - Artsakh Wedding will take place on the grounds grams throughout the country. of the Shushi fortress, while the Stepanakert stadi- um will host a grand festive parade on May 9, Ginosyan told a press conference on April 30. The project idea belongs to Karabagh Minister of Culture Narine Aghabalyan, while the performance ATP Celebrates Earth Day in Kotayk with will be staged by Artsakhs We and Our Mountains folk ensemble. According to Ginosyan, special national dresses US Embassy and United Nations were prepared for the event, which will be staged in the Karabagh dialect. YEREVAN — The celebration of Earth with the local authorities to establish vide its inhabitants with life and suste - The project is expected to be presented in Day is gaining in popularity at a rapid these community forests. While the nance. It also recognizes a collective Yerevan and abroad. pace in Armenia. This year, Armenia trees are provided by ATP, the local com - responsibility, as called for in the 1992 Tree Project (ATP) celebrated by planti - munity invests resources in planting and Rio Declaration, to promote harmony ng trees in the community of Teghenik long-term maintenance of the trees on with nature and the Earth to achieve a Armenian Wines Can in the Kotayk region. On Friday, April their land. The program was designed just balance among the economic, social Grab Bigger Share of 20, the US Embassy in Armenia and the with sustainability in mind.” and environmental needs of present and United Nations joined ATP to plant a This program started with planting at future generations of humanity,” stated Russian Market cluster of decorative and fruit trees in sites in Karenis and Teghenik. Teghenik in the YEREVAN (Arka) — Armenian wines now have every “Our goal in planting is to restore Kotayk region, where chance to take their place in the Russian market, green spaces throughout Armenia to nearly 6,000 trees with the right marketing strategy, director of the provide valuable environmental services were planted in 2011. Russian Jaguar-17 distribution company, Sergey including clean air, soil retention and “The program has Nikitin, said at a seminar on Armenian winemaking, shade during hot summers,” said ATP been successful so far, organized by the Armenian Ministry of Economy. Managing Director Tom Garabedian. and we have received He said, currently the Russian wine market is “The Kotayk region had significant requests from other very favorable for the promotion of Armenian greenery some 150-200 years ago. These community leaders wines. planting activities offset the impacts of who want to establish “Georgian wines are not sold in Russia any deforestation, and the creation of green small forests in their longer. There are Moldovan wines, which are no spaces represents an important step in villages,” added longer popular among Russian consumers who the improvement of the environment Garabedian. “This have no idea about Armenian wines and therefore and quality of life in the region.” Earth Day tree there are great opportunities to boost their image,” US Ambassador to Armenia John planting was part of US Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern plants trees with he said. Heffern joined his colleagues from the ATP’s mission to For the promotion of Armenian wines in the schoolchildren from the town of Teghenik as part of an Earth Embassy and took part in ATP’s Earth green Armenia, and Day program with the United Nations and Armenia Tree Russian market a common brand must be created Day tree planting. “This year I’m hon - we look forward to Project. (Photograph by Alex Tarverdi) as well as a chain of special stores, he said. ored to join Armenia Tree Project in expanding these “According to official data, last year, Russia Teghenik to mark Earth Day. The trees partnerships.” imported 1 million liters of Armenian wine, less we plant here will improve the environ - Schoolchildren and other members of United Nations Resident Coordinator than .3 percent of the overall wine imports which ment and help highlight the necessity of the local community participated in the Dafina Gercheva. amounted to 343 million liters,” he said. maintaining our natural surroundings,” planting along with guests from various Earth Day events are held worldwide to Nikitin said another factor hindering the stated Heffern. organizations and international institu - increase awareness and appreciation of the progress of Armenian wines on the Russian market The trees were planted as part of tions. A total of 2,000 seedlings were natural environment. Gaylord Nelson, a is that they are promoted by companies engaged in ATP’s innovative community forests pro - planted for Earth Day. The new forest United states senator from Wisconsin, first imports of Armenian brandy. As a result, he said, gram, which was initiated in 2011. “The includes oak, pine, ash, pear and apple called for an environmental teach in, or the majority of Russian consumers buy Armenian aim of this new program is to create trees. Earth Day, to be held on April 22, 1970. wine as “exotic” wine. small community forests in areas that “The proclamation of April 22 as More than 20 million people participated are deprived of any green zones and International Mother Earth Day by the that year, and Earth Day is now observed nearby forests,” said Garabedian. “ATP United Nations is an acknowledgement each year by more than 500 million people identifies affected areas and partners that the Earth and its ecosystems pro - in 175 countries. S ATURDAY , MA Y 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 ARMENIA Fruitful Armenia Fund Begins Distributing Thousands of New Laptops to Students in Artsakh

AGBU Provides On-the-Ground Stepanakert, Shoushi and Qarin Tak. The pleased to present these computers to you. offer.” To help Eurnekian realize his vision, over device, which is developed by the educational Despite their size, these are very powerful tools the past few months, teachers and students Support for Global Education program, One Laptop per Child (OLPC) at that will help you reach new heights,” high - have attended various training workshops, Movement toward New Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) lighting the laptop’s small dimensions and light - learning how to use the XO and take advantage Technologies University in Boston, is the first of its kind, with weight, which are part of its broad appeal. of its programs. Now that the laptop distribu - durable hardware and interactive software that At the event, it was made clear that the NUR tion has commenced, the government of NKR, YEREVAN — The Argentinean-Armenian give students the opportunity to both play and project promises to bring new opportunities not in collaboration with NUR, will soon take a entrepreneur and philanthropist Eduardo learn, emphasizing creativity over instruction. only to the youth of Karabagh, but to the much-anticipated next step, providing high-qual - Eurnekian has officially launched the New Environmentally-friendly features allow the stu - region as a whole, marking a new chapter in its ity Internet connection in each of its schools. Educational Strategy (NUR), one of the most dents to enjoy the laptop outside, where they history. As Eurnekian remarked last January As wireless access is secured, they will continue ambitious education initiatives in Nagorno- can read its screen in direct sunlight and power when signing the memorandum of understand - to distribute the computers, aiming for every Karabagh (NKR). its batteries via solar energy. The laptop also ing that launched the project, “the world sees elementary schoolchild of Artsakh to own one With the Armenian General Benevolent gives them the freedom to work in groups and Nagorno-Karabagh within the context of war by the year 2014. Union’s (AGBU’s) support on the ground, individually; when together, they can easily tap and regional conflict. People fail to take notice With the deployment phase well underway, Eurnekian, through the Fruitful Armenia Fund, into a peer-to-peer network or use the comput - of the children who are born and live there. the youth of Nagorno-Karabagh have much to These children are entitled to the universal look forward to. The OLPC has a proven track right of education and access to information. record of success, and it joins a rapidly expand - Through OLPC, I intend to bridge the gap and ing global community, now equipped with the give the children of NKR the opportunity to resources and tools to succeed both within and receive the best education the world has to outside of the classroom. One Woman’s Campaign To Remember Hrant Dink

YEREVAN — I often think of Hrant Dink. I think about what I would have done had I been in his shoes as a journalist working in Turkey. Would I have been so profound and daring with my editorials? So controversial and vigilant? Or would I have remained passive in the wake of Genocide education? It has been five years since the Turkish-Armenian editor/columnist/journalist was gunned down in Istanbul, not far from his Agos newspaper office, leaving behind three children and a A student in Karabagh becomes the proud owner of his own new XO computer. wife of 31 years. To say it saddened the entire Armenian community By Tom Vartabedian globally would not be overstating the matter. his non-profit organization in Armenia, has ers at home at their own pace. Dink was best known for advocating Turkish- begun to distribute more than 3,500 brand-new Students were presented with the XO laptop Armenian reconciliation, marked by human rights in laptops in elementary schools across the region. at the ceremony attended by Arayik Turkey. He was often critical of Turkey’s denial of the Genocide and was prosecuted three times for The project, which is part of an international Harutyunyan, the Nagorno-Karabagh denigrating Turkish policies while receiving numerous death threats from Turkish nationalists. movement that is bringing cutting-edge tech - Republic’s (NKR) prime minister; Vladik He walked a tight line, only to see it sag in the middle before finally losing his grip. But who nologies to disadvantaged students, was kicked Khachatryan, the NKR education minister; can forget the man and his allegiance to his beloved heritage. He lived for it and ultimately died off at a special ceremony held in Stepanakert on Sebastian Arias Duvall, the NUR project coor - for it. April 2. dinator; Sassoun Baghdasaryan, AGBU Two years ago, while touring Armenia during the 95th anniversary of the Genocide, my pil - The partnership between Eurnekian’s NUR Armenian representative of the NKR projects grimage took me to the Armenian memorial at Tzezernagapert on the outskirts of Yerevan. and the AGBU has put the innovative XO lap - coordinator, and Ashot Ghazarian, chairman of One million others and I — or rather the entire population of this capital city. To join a mil - top, which is already being used by more than the AGBU Armenian Representation Managing lion people anywhere in the world is an imposing experience, let alone a monument. The wait 2 million children and teachers worldwide, into Committee. Addressing the children, Duvall was excruciating but tolerable, thanks to speakers along the way gushing out Armenian liturgi - the hands of first- through fourth-grade stu - stated, “our goal is to provide the young gener - cal music. dents in three Karabagh schools in ation with high-quality education. We are I was holding a batch of flowers in one hand and a camera bag in the other. No matter where you looked, there was a photo opportunity to be had. Spring had awakened a sleepless popula - tion on this April 24. Every worker and schoolchild kept the vigil secure. Ninety minutes later, I found myself inside the monument where mountains of flowers had Sargisian Orders Removal of Yerevan Park Kiosks already surrounded the eternal flame. Hordes of mourners were shuffling their way past the 12 The municipal administration has said all pylons which represented each of the prominent villages devastated during the 1915 pogroms. By Elina Chilingarian along that the kiosks will stand in Mashtots Off to one side, set in the rear, was an elderly woman. She, too, held a bouquet. In the other Park for up to three years and not damage any hand was a poster attached to a wooden handle. She was dressed in black and appeared to be trees. It has also cited the need to compensate struggling with the sign which featured a formal picture of Dink holding a microphone and the YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — After months of entrepreneurs whose kiosks mainly selling inscription below: “1,500,000+1,” noting the number of martyrs who succumbed during the protests by environmental and other civil clothing were removed in January from the side - 1915-23 massacres. activists, President Serge Sargisian ordered walk of a major street in the city center. I was intrigued by the bystander, enough to approach her out of curiosity. municipal authorities on Tuesday, May 1, to Hundreds of other sidewalk shops were dis - “Are you alone?” I asked. remove more than a dozen kiosks controver - mantled across Yerevan last year. “Yes,” she answered. “I prefer it this way. People are more apt to study one sign than many. sially built in a small park downtown. The standoff intensified early month when This is getting the attention it deserves. Hrant Dink died for us. He died for the people who Sargisian visited Mashtots Park with Mayor the protesters were joined by a group of promi - come to this monument today and place their flowers. We owe him our gratitude for the atten - Taron Markarian just two days after the most nent public figures trying to tear down the tion he drew to this genocide.” serious clashes yet between protesters and riot under-construction kiosks. Their attempts led I offered to bring the woman a bottle of water, seeing she had none. police guarding the state-owned properties. to scuffles with police. “How long have you been standing here?” I asked. “You’ve done everything right,” he told The most violent of those incidents took “All day,” she said. “I came here at 6 a.m. so people could see my sign. I will be here until 9 Markarian in front of television cameras. “You place on Sunday. Seven protesters were p.m. By then, the flowers will be very high and most everyone will have come and gone.” were right in the sense that you made a tempo - detained on the spot and kept in police custody I was enamored by the woman. Though people couldn’t avoid her presence, they passed her rary decision. In two or three years all this for several hours. Two of them suffered injuries by unnoticed, tending to the matter at hand — young, old and those in between. All approached would have to be removed from here. But, my and required treatment at a hospital. the eternal flame with their flowers and prayers. dear Taron, as you can see, this [appearance] is Sargisian on Tuesday praised the police for show - Many tributes have been rendered to this esteemed colleague. Many have acknowledged and not quite nice.” ing restraint in the high-profile dispute. Robert lauded his fine work. Heads of state and dignitaries around the world have kept the memory of “Again, you made the right decision but it Melkonian, a deputy chief of the Yerevan police who Dink intact. And here was a solitary woman — one in a million — embracing the man with a sign, would be right if you find a way of dismantling has personally coordinated the police actions in the standing her ground. all this,” Sargisian said. “That would be the park, afterwards congratulated environmentalists Had the woman been at his funeral where 200,000 mourners had gathered to protest the appropriate decision.” on what many of them regard as a rare victory assassination, she would have been another face in the crowd. The remarks effectively put an end to a more against the government. The following year, a friend of mine toured Armenia in April and he, too, found his way to than three-month standoff between dozens of Some campaigners dismissed Sargisian’s Tzezernagapert. Upon his return home, he agreed to give a presentation to the community. activists and the Yerevan municipality backed intervention as a public relations move related Included in his display was a photo of the very same woman, holding the very same sign and by the police. The mostly young people have to Sunday’s parliamentary elections. But as one striking a similar pose. Had the gentleman taken my picture and duplicated it, no similarity demonstrated there on a virtually basis in of the organizers of the protests, Yeghia would have been detected. It was a mirror image. protest against what they see as further damage Nersisian, said, “You can find a lot of political Should you be in Armenia this year and run across this woman, please give her our very best. Let to the city’s green areas. They have also chal - context in all this but I don’t want to do that … her know that her efforts are being appreciated by those of us here in America, but most of all, those lenged the legality of the mayor’s decision to I just know one thing: he who fights in good who rekindle the flame Hrant Dink lit for all of us looking to escape the darkness of obscurity. use the public area for commercial purposes. faith always achieves his goal.” 4 S ATURDAY , MA Y 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL International News Armenians Mark Genocide with Azerbaijan, Turkey to March to Turkish Embassy Sign Delayed Tanap Pipe Deal at End of June By Van Meguerditchian BAKU (Bloomberg News) — Azerbaijan and Turkey plan to complete delayed talks on the proposed RABIEH, Lebanon (Daily Star) — Trans-Anatolia pipeline that will carry Azeri natural Nearly 25,000 Lebanese-Armenians gas across Turkey to Europe by the end of the marched to the Turkish Embassy in Metn month. on April 24, calling on Ankara to recog - “We aim to complete talks this month and sign the nize the Armenian Genocide committed inter- governmental agreement by June 30,” Elshad by the Ottoman government. Nasirov, vice president of State Oil Co. of Azerbaijan, The large turnout — which surprised known as Socar, said on May 2 in an interview in the even organizers — prompted the Turkish Azeri capital. The deal was held up issues over tax Embassy to request an increase in securi - and the investment regime, according to Nasirov. ty outside the embassy, according to an The two sides signed a memorandum of under- Internal Security Forces source who standing in December on the 2,000-kilometer (1,240- spoke on condition of anonymity. mile) pipeline known as Tanap that will transport gas Interior Ministry officials estimated from the BP Plc-led Shah Deniz field in Azerbaijan’s that 20,000 to 25,000 people took part in section of the Caspian Sea. Socar has an 80 percent the march, which began at the Armenian Young Armenian demonstrators in Beirut stake, while Turkey’s state pipeline company Boru Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias. Hatlari Ile Petrol Tasima AS, or Botas, and oil compa- Catholicos of the See of Cilicia Aram I ny Turkiye Petrolleri AO have a combined 20 percent. denounced Turkey’s efforts to expand its March 14 Coalition hailed the rally, call - divide in the country expressed their soli - At an estimated cost of $5 billion to $7 billion, the influence in the region during a mass ing it an opportunity to remind officials at darity with Lebanese-Armenians. partners plan to build Tanap before the start of pro- before the march. “We hold the present the embassy and in the Turkish govern - “I express my solidarity with duction from the second phase of the Shah Deniz Republic of Turkey, in its capacity, as the ment that Armenians will not stop Armenians in the country who have suf - project, due in 2017 or 2018. It will link up with legitimate successor of the Ottoman demanding justice. fered in Armenia and have also suffered in other proposed pipelines, such as Nabucco West, that Empire, accountable for its crimes against “The embassy and the new Ottoman Lebanon’s Civil War,” Beirut MP Nadim are vying for the rights to deliver the fuel on to the our people.” Empire should be aware that the rights of Gemayel said in a statement at parlia - European Union from the Turkish border. Once they were meters away from the the Armenian people will not fade in ment. Turkish Embassy’s gates, protesters time,” he said. Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Turkish Municipality began to burn Turkish flags and chant His rival in parliament, Metn MP Hagop Aoun criticized the Turkish government anti-Turkish slogans. “We fight for justice, Pakradounian of March 8 also marched, for refusing to recognize the massacres. “I Tears down Monument to and we demand it from the fascist Turkish saying “this day proves that we will con - had hoped that Foreign Minister Ahmet regime,” read one of the banners raised at tinue to demand justice until Turkey rec - Davutoglu would recognize the Armenian Armenian Composer the barbed wire separating some 200 riot ognizes its guilt and gives reparations to Genocide. But as long as he doesn’t apol - ISTANBUL (news.am) — Yalova City Hall authorized police from the crowd. Armenians around the world.” ogize for it, he is responsible for it,” said razing a monument dedicated to renowned Armenian Beirut MP Serge Torsarkissian of the Politicians from across the political Aoun. musician and composer Hovhannes Tuncboyaciyan (Onno Tunc), the older brother of musician Arto Tuncboyaciyan. The monument, which was erected in 2002 in Marie Manoogian Institute in Buenos Aires honor of Tuncboyaciyan who had died in a plane crash in 1996, was vandalized several times. And 15 days ago, unidentified people had erased the words Gets State-of-the-Art Renovations on the monument, Radikal daily reported. BUENOS AIRES — On Monday, The Yalova mayor reported that the municipality March 19, parents, students and faculty decided to dismantle the monument, since it was in gathered in the Armenian General such bad shape. He claimed to have spoken with the Benevolent Union (AGBU) Marie late musician’s family members and the monument’s Manoogian Institute to celebrate the sculptor, and said that a more fitting monument unveiling of two brand new classrooms would be erected in two months. for its Serpuhi Ekshian Nursery School. Providing high-quality education and Slovak Official: Any Turk resources to youth around the world has always been a key component of the Denying Armenian organization’s mission, and the Institute’s new classrooms are a testa - Genocide in Slovakia Will ment to that commitment. Designs for Be Jailed the renovations were finished in record time — ground was broken this past BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (PanARMENIAN.Net) — On January and the work was completed April 4, a wreath laying ceremony was held at a according to schedule so that the khachkar/belisk here, in memory of Armenian improved facilities could be taken advan - Abp. Kissag Mouradian, Very Rev. Maghakiá Amiryan, Buenos Aires Chapter Chairman Genocide victims, the press service of the Forum of tage of during the current school year. Ruben Kechichian, and the Institute’s patrons celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony. Armenian Associations of Europe (FAAE) reported. As planned, one of the classrooms Slovakia’s Supreme Court Chairman Stefan increased by 70 percent, while the other Harabin, President of Armenian Constitutional Court almost doubled in size. Each room ing the extensive demolitions and an institute alumnus and member of Gagik Harutyunyan, Chairman of the Republic of boasts state-of-the-art projectors, com - months of tireless work that made the both its Board and Educational Armenia Court of Cassation Arman Mkrtumyan and puters and stereo systems and is com - transformation possible. Ruben Committee. Kechichian also praised the FAAE Chairman Ashot Grigorian took part in the plete with modern furniture and desks. Kechichian, Buenos Aires Chapter Chair teachers, who, under the leadership of event. In his speech, Harabin noted the importance At the inaugural event, family and and AGBU Central Board member, director Noemi Fourmentel and with the of a “law criminalizing the Armenian Genocide friends had the opportunity to tour the thanked the project’s many advocates, support of AGBU’s local committees, denial,” adopted by the Slovak government and par- new space and watch a video highlight - chief among them Juan Ignacio Balian, helped make 2012 the year the school liament. He said that any Turkish official, regardless reached the highest level of enrollment in of his rank, and any other person who denies the its history, with almost 400 students in Armenian Genocide in Slovakia will be sentenced to grades pre-kindergarten to 12th. five years in prison. The Slovak official stressed his Following Kechichian’s remarks, readiness to help his French counterparts to pass a Archbishop Kissag Mouradian, Primate similar law. of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Harutyunyan voiced his gratitude to the Slovak Argentina and Chile, performed a bless - government, nation and personally the Supreme ing over the two rooms. He was joined Court chairman for being the first in the EU to adopt by the project’s benefactors, Jorge and a law that penalizes the Armenian Genocide denial. Maria Rosa Kalaidjian, and Souren and He noted Armenia’s Constitutional Court members’ Nelly Youssefian, along with other sup - readiness to cooperate with the Slovak lawyers to porters who cut the ribbon together, prove to other countries the necessity of passing officially opening the classrooms amidst such a law. Harutyunyan noted that the law does not enthusiastic applause. run counter to human rights but, just the opposite, This year students will travel to the ensures their protection. homeland from July 21 through August Parents, students and teachers gather for the unveiling of AGBU Marie Manoogian 3 to learn more about their heritage and Institute’s new Pre-K facilities. strengthen their connection to their ancestral roots. S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 Community Ne ws

Dr. Nishan Pallone Statement on Goudsouzian Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day

To Receive Ellis WASHINGTON — Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D- NJ), co-chair and founder of the Congressional Island Medal Caucus on Armenian Issues, released the fol - lowing statement in recognition of the 97th BOSTON — Dr. Nishan Goudsouzian of Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, which Winchester, a pediatric anesthesiologist at is April 24: Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), will “Today we commemorate the 97th anniver - receive an Ellis Island Medal of Honor in May. sary of the Armenian Genocide, and remember He had received the Robert M. Smith Award the lives of the one-and-a-half million Armenians from the American Academy of Pediatrics in who were needlessly slaughtered by Ottoman February for his exceptional work. Turks between 1915 and 1923. Today’s anniver - Goudsouzian is the foremost expert on mus - sary gives us an opportunity to acknowledge cle relaxants in children and a distinguished From left, Igor Petrosyan, Ken Allikian, Sen. Lois Tochtrop, Diane Brown, Sona the atrocities committed against the Armenian leader in the field of pediatric anesthesia. Hedeshian, Seta Tashjian, Rep. Su Ryden, Kim Christianian, Rafael Saakyan and people as genocide and renew our commitment Goudsouzian was born in Cairo, Egypt, to Simon Maghakyan to prevent and end injustices where they exist. Armenian parents who escaped the Armenian “Armenia stands as a resilient ally of the Genocide in Turkey. After attending the United States and a nation dedicated to democ - Mekhitarist School and LaSalle College, he racy and regional stability. Since I first came to obtained his medical degree from Cairo Colorado State Legislature Congress I have been proud to push for a for - University. He then immigrated to the United mal recognition of the Armenian Genocide and States via Canada. In the United States he con - as the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on tinued his graduate education, obtaining a mas - Approves Armenian Armenian Issues I have encouraged my col - ter’s degree in physiology (MS) at Jefferson leagues to do that same. Medical College in Philadelphia. “This day also serves as a reminder that Goudsouzian did his residency and fellowship Genocide Resolution Turkey still refuses to acknowledge the fact of training in anesthesia at Massachusetts General the Armenian Genocide and reconcile itself Hospital. He served in the army as an officer DENVER, Colo. — On Friday April 20, the Colorado General Assembly unani - with its own history. The Turkish leadership with the rank of major and director of operat - mously supported the 11th annual Armenian Genocide Resolution, designating has broken promises of a normalization of rela - ing rooms at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Ga. April 24 as Colorado Day of Remembrance of The Armenian Genocide. tions with Armenia and we must not stand idly Following his honorable discharge, he rejoined The resolution was spearheaded by Armenians of Colorado (AOC) Genocide by as Turkey continues its denials of history. the staff of Massachusetts General Hospital as a Commemoration Committee chairperson, Kim Christianian in 2002, with the help “Today we commemorate the bravery of pediatric anesthesiologist, where he currently of committee members Ken Allikian and Simon Maghakyan. “Each year we update those who perished in and survived the serves in his 45th year. the language of the resolution to bring awareness to the continuous injustices that Armenian Genocide. I remain fully committed Besides his duties as a fulltime pediatric anes - are placed on the Christian minorities in Turkey”, says Christianian. Last year, to ensuring formal US government recognition thesiologist, Goudsouzian has been interested Colorado led the states with language in their resolution calling for the return of of the mass killings of Armenians by Ottoman in clinical research. Initially he was involved in Christian properties confiscated during the genocide “This year, we added lan - Turks for what it was, genocide.” clinical evaluation of several muscle relaxants. guage about the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, which He was the first in objective evaluation of named Turkey as one of the 16 most egregious and systematic violators of reli - gious freedom in the world,” said Christianian. State Sen. Lois Tochtrop has been the primary sponsor of the resolution since 2002, back when she was a Sen. Levin Calls for State Representative in the House. “We have had several Genocide Recognition House sponsors over the years, but for the last two Each year we update years we have had Rep. Su By Mitch Kehetian Ryden as our advocate in the the language of the House chamber,” said DETROIT — In my 52 years as a journalist, I Allikian. have been honored to cover history-making In addition to the annual resolution to bring events — from local news to state and national resolution, Armenians of issues. Colorado has for 30 years The list of those who served the public as obtained annual awareness to the elected officials included leaders from the Gubernatorial and Mayoral Democratic and Republican ranks. Many never Armenian Genocide commem - wavered at standing up for the recognition of orative proclamations. This continuous injustices the Armenian Genocide of 1915-23 by year, the proclamations were the Ottoman Turkish government, a crime submitted by AOC board against humanity that present-day Turkey still member, Rafael Saakyan. that are placed on denies. The resolution was followed Dr. Nishan Goudsouzian Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) reminds the by the annual commemora - American people we must “never forget the tion ceremony on Sunday the Christian genocide visited upon the Armenians we curare in infants and children. Later he worked April 22, organized by remember today” in a moving statement deliv - on newer relaxants, and his scientific data was Armenians Of Colorado Inc. minorities in Turkey ered on the floor of the US Senate on April 24. used by the FDA for the determination of their and the Genocide This is not the first time Levin has called for effective doses in children. During his career he Commemoration Committee. –Kim Christianian recognition of the Genocide. Throughout his has published more than 150 medical and Maghakyan acted as emcee career, the senator has championed the research publications and has authored two and the guest speakers included Tochtrop and Ryden. Rev. Zaven Markosyan deliv - Armenian cause as a call for justice. This year books, which have had several editions and ered the invocation in the Senate and at the commemoration ceremony. A crowd the ranking senator honored this writer by call - translated into four languages. He was found - of more than 150 attended the ceremony held in the Armenian Garden located on ing attention to his published memoir as a must ing editor and chairman of the editorial board the State Capitol grounds where there is a dedicated commemorative headstone read by those who deny the genocide of 1.5 mil - of the indexed journal Pediatric Anesthesia . In and evergreen tree. The garden was established with the support of the Armenian lion fellow Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. 1999 Harvard Medical School bestowed on him community and AOC in April 1982. “We are very fortunate to have our own piece Shortly after I sent the senator a copy of my the title of Professor of Anesthesia, with an hon - of land on the Capitol grounds,” said Sona Hedeshian, president of AOC. “We’ll be memoir, he responded with a heart-warming orary MA degree. working to make enhancements to the site in time for the centennial in 2015.” personal letter that the memoir was “a com - Because of his research and academic knowl - Last month, AOC and Facing History and Ourselves brought Genocide pelling, deeply moving, honest memoir — a trib - edge, he has traveled and lectured in more than Scholar/poet Peter Balakian to Denver for a teachers’ workshop titled “Why ute to Armenians lost in the Genocide.” 20 countries and been invited to nominate can - Studying the Armenian Genocide Matters Today.” A reading of poetry and book Levin closed by pledging to refer to it when I didates for the Nobel Prize. He is also on the signing was held the following day at the historic Tattered Cover Bookstore in speak in support of a resolution recognizing International Advisory Board of the Medical Denver. and memorializing the events you recount for School of Yerevan University. Upcoming AOC events include a talk, titled, “The Changing Landscape of what they were — a genocide.” The Proton Beam Therapy Unit at Historic Western Armenian: Reflections on a Journey into the Past,” with Dr. In his opening remarks in the US Senate, Massachusetts General Hospital has the most Richard Hovannisian on Saturday, May 5. Details can be found at Levin said: “Mr. President, this is a week to bear experience in treating children with brain and www.armeniansofcolorado.org. eye tumors. Twenty-five years ago, witness. Today, April 24, we mark Armenian Goudsouzian organized and administered the Genocide Remembrance Day — the day on see AWARD, page 8 see LEVIN, page 7 6 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS California’s Oldest Armenian Church to Salute Senior Pastor, Family

FRESNO — Members and friends of the In 1974 and 1975, Melkonian served as a of the Armenian Evangelical Churches in First Armenian Presbyterian Church (FAPC) teacher at the Bethel Armenian Evangelical Damascus, Horns, Kessab and Aleppo. He will salute Senior Pastor Mgrdich Melkonian, School in Aleppo. In fall 1975, he enrolled as also served as preacher at the Armenian his wife, Houri, and their family, at an appre - a pre-theological student at the Near East Evangelical Martyrs’ Church and Bethel ciation luncheon on Sunday, May 20. School of Theology (NEST) in Beirut, Armenian Evangelical Church in Aleppo. Melkonian is concluding his Central Lebanon. The 1976 civil war in Lebanon inter - In 1989, the First Armenian Evangelical California pastorate of almost nine years to rupted his education and he returned to Church of Montreal, Quebec, called accept a position in the Armenian Missionary Aleppo to again teach at Bethel School. The Melkonian to its pastorate. The Armenian Association of America in Armenia. following year he resumed his education in Evangelical Union of North America ordained Melkonian has been designated mentor pas - Beirut. him a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in tor to the pastors of the Armenian In 1982 he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1990. Evangelical Churches in Armenia. He will Armenian literature from Haigazian During his stay in Quebec, Melkonian start - observe his first day in the new pastorate on University. In 1984, he earned his master of ed the Tebi Louys (Toward Light) television July 1. divinity degree from NEST and he married ministry and chaired the task force for the The luncheon will begin with a 1 p.m. fel - Houri Aposhian, a fellow graduate of NEST. Armenian Evangelical Union of North lowship hour and continue at 2 p.m. with a The couple has three daughters, Alina, America (AEUNA) 12th Biennial General meal catered by Pardini’s at the FAPC Shogher and Tamar, and one grandson, Peter Assembly. He also served as vice president of Fellowship Hall, 430 South First St. on Mgo Shanoian. the Armenian Missionary Association of Huntington Boulevard. Upon his graduation from the seminary, the Canada. Melkonian was born in Aleppo, Syria in Union of Armenian Evangelical Churches in In 1995, the United Armenian 1954. He received his early education at the the Near East called Melkonian to serve as Congregational Church of Hollywood, Calif. Senior Pastor Mgrdich Melkonian Emmanuel Armenian Evangelical School and the director of the Armenian Evangelical called Melkonian as associate pastor for the Karen Jeppe Azkayn Jemaran (high youth in Syria and Lebanon. In the succeed - parish development. On June 1, 2003, the school) in his native city. ing five years, he served as Christian educator FAPC congregation called Melkonian as its July 25, 1897. The boyhood church of authors 11th senior pastor. William Saroyan and A.I. Bezzerides and film - Melkonian was installed in the senior pas - maker J. Michael Hagopian, FAPC today is a OBITUARY torate of FAPC on Sunday, September 21, multigenerational evangelical congregation 2003. Along with his almost nine-year parish drawn from the Old and New Worlds. ministry, he has served as moderator of the Rev. Mike Mekredijian is the associate pas - Anne (Bolsetzian) Zarookian AEUNA (2002-2004) and he presided at the tor of the congregation, Philip C. Garo, Jr., Union’s 17th Biennial General Assembly in M.Div. is the director of Children’s and Youth SCARSDALE, N.Y. — Anne (Bolsetzian) Fresno on June 23-27, 2004. He is currently Ministries, and Elder Edward Saliba and Zarookian, formerly of the Bronx, died on April the moderator of the AEUNA and will preside Mary Lou Bagdasarian are co-chairs of the 14. She was the daughter of Khosrov and at the union’s 21st Biennial General Appreciation Luncheon Committee. Takoohy Bolsetzian, and the sister of Edward Assembly in Montreal (June 28-July 1). FAPC is a member congregation of the Bolsetzian. She was 96. Melkonian is also the current president of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) and She married Souren Zarookian in 1938. Armenian Evangelical World Council. the Armenian Evangelical Union of North She was active in several Armenian organiza - Forty immigrants from Marsovan chartered America. The 2012 theme of the congregation tions. She was a charter member of Saint the Fresno congregation in a rented hall on is “A New Mission.” Vartan’s Cathedral when it was being built, where she worked on many committees. She was a member of the Cathedral Guild, Women’s Telephone (617) 924-7400 Central Committee of the Armenian General Benevolent Union for 25 years, an active mem - ber of the Holy Cross Church and their Aram Bedrosian Women’s Guild for 60 years and was a Daughter of Vartan for more than 50 years. Funeral Home, Inc. Her good nature, generosity, unselfishness and neat appearance were admired. She kept Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 her wit and sharpness until the end of her life MARION BEDROSIAN keeping busy reading and telling jokes. She 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET delighted in reciting poems in Latin and her PAUL BEDROSIAN memory was one of the best. WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN She leaves her son, Robert, and daughter, Carol, and son-in-law, Mardo; two grandchildren Anne (Bolsetzian) Zarookian and four great-grandchildren. DENNIS M. DEVENEY & SONS Cemetery Monuments Specializing in Armenian Designs and Lettering 701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543 (781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com

GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 Aris Sevag www.giragosianfuneralhome.com Aris Sevag, Noted Editor, Translator Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a NEW YORK — Writer, translator, editor and educator Aris Sevag died suddenly on Saturday, April 28. He was 66. For many years, Sevag was the managing editor of the Armenian Reporter weekly, and later the assistant editor of the biannual AGBU News magazine and editor of Ararat online Edward D. Jamie, Jr. magazine. He published more than a dozen literary, historical and other works, the most recent being Armenian Golgotha , with Peter Balakian, as well as hundreds of articles. Licensed in New York and New Jersey Among his unpublished translations are accounts of several Armenian Genocide survivors, Funeral Chapel 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside, NY a study on the orphans from the Armenian Genocide, histories of prominent Armenian fam - 11361 ilies and works of literature. Service any hour, (718) 224-2390 or toll A full obituary will appear next week. any distance free (888) 224-6088 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Genocide Memorial Planned for Lowell

Hejinian. “Knot by knot, the Armenian people The theme of weaving a lace cloth into stone By Tom Vartabedian everywhere weave their hopes and dream as appears connected to Lowell’s history, known they grow and prosper. This expression of for its prominent textile industry. ‘weaving’ echoes the Armenian national “Lowell accepted immigrants from through - LOWELL, Mass. — A monument featuring a anthem.” out the world to work the mills,” added mother’s hands weaving the history of her Hejinian. “It is here in which a community of people is the theme of an Armenian Genocide Armenians was established and flourished memorial approved by city officials, during a from the late 19th century. Just as this meeting with organizers from the Merrimack Genocide is imprinted in the collective memo - Valley Armenian community. ry of every Armenian, this cross-stone is the Plans for the structure were announced dur - permanent reminder that the ultimate crime ing the 97th anniversary commemoration in against humanity will never be forgotten or front of City Hall, where the monument will be repeated.” situated to the right of a flagpole, which flies The project was started during the term of the Armenian tricolor every April 24. Mayor James Milinazzo, who lobbied for a Estimated cost for the project runs $25,000, piece of prime land abutting City Hall. He has which will be collected through an intensive since been replaced by Mayor Patrick Murphy, fund-raising campaign. who remains just as dedicated to the endeav - The announcement followed six months of or. plenary work by a pan-Armenian committee The Armenian memorial will share company Displaying an artist’s rendition of the Genocide headed by activist Armen Jeknavorian with with markers from other nationalities inside memorial for Lowell are, from left, Mayor Patrick members of various church and civic organi - an area known as Monument Park, which Murphy, Daniel Varoujan-Hejinian, zations; Middlesex County Sheriff Peter attracts some 100,000 people each July during artist/designer, and Armen Jeknavorian, commit - tee chairman. Koutoujian is also lending insight as honorary an ethnic folk festival. chairman. “It’ll certainly create an attractive yet mean - The structure, which features a mother’s ingful presence,” said Murphy. “We have a “The Armenian community became an asset hands protruding from the khachkar , serves very sizable Armenian presence in the city and to the growth of Lowell’s economic and social as an immediate eye-catcher. At the base are this is a tribute to them. Armenians have over - fabric through their industrious spirit, strong the Armenian words “EE Hesh-a-dag,” which come extreme adversity. Together, we’ll all family values and their devotion to a free soci - translates into “In Remembrance.” The stone share in the human experience — that being ety, healthy religious values and strong civic measures six feet in height and three feet in peace and harmony throughout the world.” pride,” added Murphy. width. Armenians began settling in Lowell before The Merrimack Valley currently is home to “The delicacy of the crochet integrated into the 1900s as immigrants came searching for three Genocide survivors, Nellie Nazarian, “Mother’s Hands” Genocide memorial planned the cross-stone symbolizes the steadfast rich - work and a safe haven in which to raise their Thomas Magarian and Ojen Fantazian, and for Lowell ness of the Armenian heritage that has sus - families, practice their religion and educate each was invited to serve as an honorary mem - tained our ancient people for centuries,” said their children. ber of the committee. Their names grace all formal correspondence and will be mentioned in conjunction with every nuance of the pro - ject, which is expected to be completed next Obama again Breaks Promise to Commemorate Armenian Genocide April. “Through their sacrifice and vision, genera - OBAMA, from page 1 a blistering denunciation of Obama’s latest never again. Armenian-Americans will not rest tions have prospered here and made our her - from then-candidate Obama in which he trum - statement, saying it made “a stark lie” out of until the United States stands firmly with the itage and culture one to be admired,” said peted “my firmly held conviction that the his 2008 campaign pledge and charged it “rep - community of righteous nations, wherein 20 Jeknavorian. “It’s a meaningful gesture of grat - Armenian Genocide is not an allegation, a per - resents the very opposite of the principled and countries have affirmed the Armenian itude for all they’ve done to preserve and sonal opinion, or a point of view, but rather a honest change he promised to Armenian Genocide.” advance our history.” widely documented fact supported by an over - Americans and to all the citizens of our Armenian-American celebrity Kim whelming body of historical evidence.” nation.” Kardashian marked the event on her official “The facts are undeniable. An official policy “The cause of genocide affirmation and pre - Twitter feed, @kimkardashian. “Today lets all that calls on diplomats to distort the historical vention is a fundamental issue for all of human - stand together & remember the 1.5 million peo - facts is an untenable policy,” Obama wrote. “As ity,” stated Assembly Executive Director Bryan ple who were massacred in the Armenian Sen. Levin Calls for President I will recognize the Armenian Ardouny. “Only by squarely acknowledging the Genocide. April 24th, 1915. #NEVERFOR - Genocide.” Armenian Genocide and confronting Turkey’s GET,” she wrote. Genocide Recognition The chairman of the Armenian National denial, can the promise of the prevention be (Additional reporting by the Armenian Committee of America, Ken Hachikian, issued realized and truly give meaning to the words Mirror-Spectator staff.) LEVIN, from page 5 which we remind one another of the organized campaign of deportation, expropriation, starva - tion and atrocity perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire against its Armenian population.” Continuing Levin reminded the audience that the Genocide began on April 24, 1915 with the eventual execution of hundreds of Armenian community members, then adding that “just as, a few days ago, we marked Holocaust Remembrance Day bearing witness to the attempt by Nazi Germany to destroy Europe’s Jewish population.” While addressing the Genocide, Levin stressed “the historical record is clear and unde - niable. I would ask any who deny the historical reality of the Armenian Genocide to read Giants of the Earth , the moving memoir of native Detroiter Mitch Kehetian and his search for the fate of beloved family members during the tragedy.” In linking the Armenian Genocide with the Jewish Holocaust, Levin cited how Adolph Hitler ordered his Nazi commanders on the eve of the invasion of Poland to kill the Jews much like the Ottomans killed the Armenians, with impunity, since “‘Who today, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians.’ And so, he launched the Holocaust, ending the lives of 6 million Jews simply because they were Jewish.” Giants of the Earth was printed by Publish America of Baltimore, focusing on the writer’s search in 1969 for his father’s sister Parancim in the province of Keghi, Turkish-occupied west - ern Armenia and journey through the now bar - ren Armenian cities of Sepastia, Erzinjan, Erzurum, Bitlis, Moush, Kharpet, Malatya and historic Lake Van. (Mitch Kehetian is the retired editor of the Macomb Daily ). 8 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS South Florida Armenian Community Gathers for Easter Celebration

BOCA RATON, Fla. — On Sunday, April 8, the ticipate in the day’s service, festivities and cele - South Florida Armenian-American community bration. Led by Very Rev. Dr. Nareg Berberian, gathered at St. David Armenian Church to cele - pastor of St. David Armenian Church, parish - brate Easter Sunday, reported Florida ioners came with their families and friends to Armenians (FLArmenians). The sanctuary was celebrate the most important feast day in the filled to capacity and the adjoining church hall Armenian Christian faith. accommodated 500 people so that all could par - “I am pleased to see almost 700 people gath -

Rev. Nareg Berberian and the St. David Armenian Church servers

er together in our Sanctuary to celebrate the in the Armenian church, the greeting Parishioners in attendance at St. David Armenian Church Feast of the Glorious Resurrection of our Lord “Krisdos haryav ee merelotz” (Christ is risen Jesus Christ. With Christ, our souls are resur - from the dead) is used on the joyous day of rected and in Christ our hearts are created Easter, followed by the response “Orhnyal eh anew. I encourage all our congregants to harouteunn Krisdosi” (blessed is the resur - become more active in sharing their God-given rection of Christ). talents and gifts with our Church community, “It was wonderful to see so many of our com - Dr. Nishan Goudsouzian especially since this year has been designated as munity come out to celebrate this day,” stated the year of the ‘Lay Ministry.’” Parish Council member Carol Norigian. “As our To Receive Ellis Island Medal Holy Week is the most important week of parish continues to grow, the St. David the Church calendar and St. David Armenian Armenian Church Parish Council is pleased to AWARD, from page 5 Goudsouzians’ contributions were recognized by Church held religious activities in the days continue serving our vibrant south Florida first anesthetic for children at the Harvard the Catholicos of all Armenians and he received leading up to Easter Sunday. As is tradition community,” stated Norigian. Cyclotron Physics Laboratory located on the St. Nerses Shnorhali Medal with a pontifical Harvard’s main campus. These children Encyclical, an event recognized by the required 20 to 30 treatments on a daily basis. Massachusetts House of Representatives. Presently, Goudsouzian is the principal anes - Furthermore, he has also volunteered his time in ARPA to Hold Daylong Event with thesiologist of the unit at MGH. The unit is providing anesthesia for handicapped children proud in its accomplishment in that no major on the Mercy Ship in Port Antonio, Jamaica. mishap at the old or new unit has happened in Armenia has a special place in the heart of Lectures and Panel Discussions 25 years. the Goudsouzians. He has been to Armenia GLENDALE, Calif. — The Board of Directors projects in Armenia currently in progress as Goudsouzian and his wife of 42 years, Mary, eight times, twice with Project Hope, the first of the Analysis Research and Planning for well as other future plans and projects. The have been active in the St. James Armenian time to organize an airlift of earthquake victims Armenia (ARPA) Institute has planned an all- booklet will also include the highlights of Church for 37 years. He has been on the Parish to the United States, and the second time to day event, with lectures and panel discussions ARPA’s monthly lectures in Los Angeles, the Council for six years and is a diocesan delegate. establish a rehabilitation unit. by scholars and experts, culminating in a gala details of the conference program and the He is active in several other organizations such While with Project Hope, Goudsouzian was banquet, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of abstracts of the papers presented at the con - as the Armenian General Benevolent Union (vice appalled by the lack of medical supplies in the founding of ARPA. ference. chairman of the Greater Boston chapter), Armenia. He started collecting medical supplies The conference on “Current Issues Facing ARPA encourages participation in supporting National Association of Armenian Research and and sending them to hospitals in Armenia. He Armenia and the Diaspora” will convene on this program by advertising products or ser - Studies (board member), Armenian Cultural has been sending a large shipment every two to Saturday, May 19, at 11 a.m., (lunch will be pro - vices, and/or expressing well-wishes to ARPA Foundation (board member) and Friends of three months through the United Armenia vided) at the Glendale Public Library, 222 E. Institute or honoring the memory loved ones Armenian Culture Society (Secretary). The Fund for the last 15 years. Harvard St. The gala banquet will be held on and families in the booklet. the same day at 7:30 p.m., at the Dream Palace ARPA organizes monthly lectures on various Banquet Hall (510 E. Broadway), following the subjects. If unable to attend the lecture conference. on Armenian Identity, Knowledge and St. John Garabed Armenian Church Hopes New To document this event, a booklet will be Studies: Synthesis and/or Controversy, visit the published, which will include the history of following site to watch the complete lecture on Building Project May Be Approved by Year End the organization, the summary of all ARPA YouTube: http://youtu.be/cvSVFgDXdyg. SAN DIEGO, Calif. — The Trust Fund Armenian heritage park, picnic and meditation Committee of St. John Garabed Armenian space and abundant parking. Church has resubmitted the Conditional Use On November 10, the Trust Fund Committee Permit (CUP) application to establish a new will host the second annual “Bridge to the church campus on its property near Del Mar. Future” Gala Dinner and Dance at the Hilton Home Health Aides This second submission is a “limited submittal” La Jolla Torrey Pines with guest of honor, in response to specific concerns raised in the Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, and entertain - Immediate openings for Armenian Bilingual Home Health Aides. first review to traffic flow and environmental ment provided by Robert Chilingerian. For Workers needed in Watertown and Waltham areas. Daytime impact. After initial feedback from the city staff event information, contact Ani Lanuza at sjgs - and affected agencies, a complete resubmittal [email protected]. hours available. Good pay. Must have car. If interested please will be made for a final, comprehensive review In 2008, the Trust Fund Committee of St. by the City of San Diego. The Trust Fund John Garabed Armenian Church purchased call us for interview. 1-781-762-2929. M-F, 9-4. GBHHCS Inc. Committee is hopeful that the project may be close to 14 acres of premium property near Del approved by the end of this year. Mar. The new property is located at 13860 El Harry Krikorian, chairman of the Trust Fund Camino Real. The current fundraising goal is to Committee, stated, “The San Diego-Armenian raise $1 million for expenses associated with community is eager to establish our spiritual, final approval of the CUP as well as final land social, educational and cultural home on our acquisition. Quality Armenian & new property near Del Mar. It has been our For more than 30 years, St. John Garabed dream for several years, and now we are grow - Armenian Church has been at the heart of Mediterranean Foods ing closer to realizing that dream. Throughout Armenian community life in San Diego. Under this process, we have been blessed by many for - the leadership of Rev. Datev A.K. Tatoulian, St. We Ship tuitous events that have helped to bring even John Garabed is a vibrant parish with many greater potential to our project.” active church organizations and groups, includ - Coast to Krikorian said that the new campus would be ing the Parish Council, Ladies’ Society, Sunday built in stages over a period of several years and Armenian School, church choir and the Coast with the sanctuary and a state-of-the-art social Armenian Church Youth Organization. hall being the first priority. In addition, the pro - For information about the Trust Fund posed church campus will include a cultural Committee, new church campus, fundraising Please Visit Us At: 569 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA center and library, youth center, classrooms for events and donations, visit www.MassisBakery.com Sunday and Armenian Schools, gymnasium, www.stjohngarabedtrust.org. S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS New York Times Square Armenian Genocide Commemoration Defies the Weather

HARRY KOUNDAKJIAN PHOTO COMMEMORATION, from page 1 and sisters on the occasion of YaHashoa, the Dennis R. Papazian, PhD, national grand commemoration of the Jewish Holocaust. commander of the Knights of Vartan and found - In a spirited address, Rep. Carolyn B. ing director of the Armenian Research Center Maloney (D-NY) said that “America’s place at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and among the other countries that recognize is Mary A. Papazian, PhD, president of Southern long overdue. Continually calling upon the Connecticut State University, presided over the United Stated government is critical and I ceremonies. Armen McOmber, Esq., assisted remain optimistic towards our nation. It is Papazian as emcee. important that there be no lapse in our effort to Commemoration participants included recognize the Genocide.” Armenian Genocide survivors, elected officials Menendez, the chief defender of Armenian and humanitarian, cultural, religious, educa - interest in the US Senate, proclaimed that tional and community leaders. Speakers includ - Armenians’ struggle for recognition is not in ed Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Sen. vain. “We must express our concerns that Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. Turkey continues to punish on a criminal level (D-NJ), Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), New those who dare call the Armenian atrocities a York City Comptroller John C. Liu, Manhattan genocide. The Armenian Genocide is not and Borough President Scott Stringer and New should not be an issue for debate; it is a fact… York City Council member Peter F. Vallone Jr. Keep the faith and [we will] do what we need to (D-NY). No other Armenian genocide commem - do to accurately represent the facts.” Menendez oration the United States, except in the capitol is working diligently to prevent Armenian in Washington DC, attracts as many distin - Genocide deniers from representing the State Department in foreign countries and has put a HARRY KOUNDAKJIAN PHOTO hold on the appointment of many recalcitrance. Several Genocide survivors attended the “The one thing as bad as genocide is the denial of genocide,” said Schumer. “We should not fail to head the lessons taken from the the annual Knights of Vartan essay contest, co- of Vartan, Agnes Sahagian, commented on crimes in the early part of the century. We owe sponsored by Facing History and Ourselves, what it might take for recognition to be imple -

HARRY KOUNDAKJIAN PHOTO mented, “Public opinion can only go so far if politicians do not act on it. However public opinion can provide political consequences to an official’s lack of action. “Recognizing Armenian sufferings is pivotal in showing the world that “every race of people has a place on this earth and no one has a right to change that dynamic.” The proceedings opened with an invocation from Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan of the Prelacy and ended with a benediction by Very Rev. Vazken Karayan representing Archbishop Khajag Barsamian of the Diocese. Special introductions were made of Dr. Allan Whitehorn, author on topics related to the Armenian Genocide, Ugur Umit Ungur, a Turkish scholar who writes effectively on the Rep. Carolyn Maloney addressed those assem - Armenian Genocide, and Margaret Ajamian bled in St. Vartan Cathedral. Ahnert, whose recent novel, A Knock at the Door, on the Genocide, has gained wide acclaim. Paul Saryian, a candidate for Congress, was guished political figures. also introduced. Special guests included Attorney Mark J. Three representatives of several participating Geragos, who helped lead the federal class- organizations brought greetings: Natalie action lawsuits against New York Life and other Gabrielian of the Armenian General Benevolent insurance companies for policies issued to Union, Alex Karapetian of the Armenian Armenians living in Turkey prior to the Assembly of America and George Aghjanyan of Armenian Genocide; Susan L. Rosenbluth, edi - the Armenian National Committee of America. tor and publisher of the Jewish Voice and Rouben Matevosyan roused the crowd with Opinion, and others. singing Zartir Lao and Raisa Megerdichyan per - Rosenbluth, in a spirited commentary, said Sen. Robert Menendez addressed those assembled in St. Vartan Cathedral. formed an upbeat rendition of Azk Parabantz . that she represented the vast majority of Jews The commemoration concluded with an echo - who accepted the reality of the Armenian ing rendition of God Bless America by Anjha Genocide and were working to convince the it to the victims and the survivors. We are all who was recognized by Grand Commander Avsharian. ADL and the state of Israel to openly declare survivors; if not for someone in our ancestry, Papazian and Grand Matron of the Daughters their support. we would not be here. The recognition of the HARRY KOUNDAKJIAN PHOTO Genocide survivors, who were given thunder - Armenian Genocide is not for only for the sake ous applause when introduced, included of those victimized or oppressed; it is for us and Arsalos Dadir, 98; Charlette Kechejian, 99; all those who have ever suffered such tragedy.” Perouze Kalousdinian, 102, and Azniv Pallone (D-NJ), head of the Armenian Caucus Guiragossian, 101. of the House of Representatives, stressed the The commemoration began with a rendition idea that we are making progress in of the American and Armenian national Washington. “Even though some Congressmen anthems by Ani Djirdjiryan. Kechejian clutched continue to vote against the Armenian genocide a white carnation and joined in the singing, pro - recognition resolution, they no longer deny the nouncing each word with distinction. The mes - reality but only say we do not want to offend sage was clear: Despite being strong and proud “our ally Turkey.” Armenians, we also have faith and pride in our Any action taken to recognize past genocides home country, America, which is our land of also serves as a preventative for future crimes security and opportunity. against humanity. “There is no question that Despite 43 states in the nation recognizing when genocide goes unpunished, it makes the atrocities of 1915–1923 against the other perpetrators discount the possibility of Armenian people by the Young Turk being held accountable for their crimes…” said Government of the Ottoman Empire as geno - Papazian, “It was the Armenian Genocide cide, the United States government is no longer which opened the door to all other genocides of willing to use the word officially. Economic rea - the 20th century.” soning and diplomatic pressure from Turkey “Of course,” stressed Papazian, “the recogni - has been preventing our nation’s governmental tion by Turkey is the ultimate goal. The Turkish leaders from following in the footsteps of the 21 government must offer recognition and recom - other counties around the world who legally pense. It would be a lot easier if the Turkish recognize the events against the Armenians as government would free the Turkish people to genocide. do their own investigating rather than forcing Acknowledgment was also made of the geno - the party line on a public denied the freedom to cide committed by the Turkish government investigate and discuss the issue freely without against the Greeks and Assyrians at the same threat of arrest and prosecution under Article Sen. Charles Schumer also spoke at the Times Square event, which was moved inside to St. Vartan time as the Armenian Genocide and fraternal 301 of the Turkish criminal code.” Cathedral. commiseration was offered to Jewish brothers Maral Mouradian, 20, second place winner of 10 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Heritage Park Monument Unveiled

JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO UNVEILING, from page 1 The sculpture, when it eventually makes its way to its permanent home, will be mounted above a reflecting pool. It will be reconfigured annually. A joyous Anahid Mardiros, who was happily playing with her grandchildren, was both relieved and delighted that the sculpture was finished. “It’s like a baby that took two years to have,” she said. She added that she was grateful for the sup - Aurelian Mardiros in front of the Heritage Park port of close friends in realizing this project. sculpture Ani Stepanian of Belmont, whose husband, Nelson, chaired the event, was happy with the night’s turnout. “You have people from different future mayor. segments of the community. That is kind of per - Bettencourt noted that he is going to continue fect considering what the monument signifies.” the tradition of commemorating the Armenian The program started with Sevag Genocide in the city annually with the participa - Khatchadourian singing the Armenian and tion of high school and middle school students, American national anthems. Then, dancers from adding that the program had taken place earlier the Sayat Nova Dance Company, in which Vartan that day. “I want students to come and learn what Mardiros is a dancer, performed to the delight of evil is so that something like that does not hap - the crowd. pen again.” James Kalustian, the president of the Armenian Also present at the event was Torigian’s widow, Heritage Park Foundation, thanked the Knights From left, Nelson Stepanian, James Kalustian, Peter Koutoujian, Aurelian Mardiros, Anahid Mardiros Jackie. and Donald Tellalian of Vartan for sponsoring the night’s event and for JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO being the first organization to support the pro - ject, as well the Mardiros family. “We owe them an undying debt of gratitude,” said it shouldn’t happen. But now, we’re a few much to help the community in general and the he said. “Donald envisioned it and the Mardiroses weeks away” from its unveiling, Kalustian said. Armenian-American community in particular. realized it.” Tentatively the parcel is supposed to be fin - Mayor Edward Bettencourt, who spoke next, “Many people said it couldn’t happen. Others ished sometime late in May or in early June. continued with praise for the work of the late “The park is dedicated to the Torigian. “I really feel honored to be here. The JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO memory of the victims of the Armenian community is a very important part of Armenian Genocide and to those the city of Peabody. The architect responsible for who came here to seek new lives,” making this city was Peter Torigian. He built it Kalustian said. into the great city it is.” The sculpture, he noted, will In a touching story, first-time mayor have 24-26 different configura - Bettencourt said how when he was a student in Peabody Mayor Edward Bettencourt, left, with tions, which symbolize the disper - high school, Torigian came to speak to the stu - Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian sion and coming together of immi - dents and left an indelible impression on the grants from different shores. Kalustian introduced Middlesex JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, crediting his perseverance during his time as a state representative for the Armenians getting the par - cel in the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Koutoujian praised the Knights for the their support of various projects in the community and the two local Armenian schools, St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School and the Armenian Sisters’ Academy, as well as the Armenian Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. “They do this good work without anyone knowing,” he said. The reflective surface shone like a mirror. He gave credit to the late Peabody The members of the Knights of Vartan mayor, Peter Torigian, for doing so

Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2012 ȱ JobȱOpeningȱ ȱ Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor VisitorȱServicesȱAssociateȱ TheȱArmenianȱLibraryȱandȱMuseumȱofȱAmericaȱ a Teacher’ program has raised over $518,000 (ALMA)ȱisȱseekingȱaȱVisitorȱServicesȱAssociate.ȱ Thisȱpositionȱcallsȱforȱanȱindividualȱwhoȱenjoysȱ and reached out to 4,064 teachers and workingȱwithȱtheȱpublicȱandȱhasȱanȱappreciationȱ forȱtheȱfineȱarts.ȱȱTheȱVisitorȱServicesȱAssociateȱ willȱ beȱ responsibleȱ forȱ handlingȱ theȱ frontȱ deskȱ school workers in Armenia and Karabagh. andȱ theȱ giftȱ shopȱ duringȱ theȱ museum’sȱ openȱ hours:ȱȱWed,ȱSat,ȱSun:ȱ12Ȭ6ȱpm,ȱThursȱ&ȱFri:ȱ12Ȭ 8pm;ȱgreetingȱmuseumȱvisitorsȱandȱtourȱgroupsȱ £ inȱaȱfriendlyȱandȱpositiveȱmanner,ȱcoordinatingȱ membershipȱ signȬupsȱ andȱ renewals,ȱ ensuringȱ K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue thatȱtheȱappearanceȱofȱtheȱgalleryȱandȱgiftȱshopȱ helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have isȱwellȱmaintained,ȱpreparingȱweeklyȱvisitorȱandȱ the teacher’s name and address. giftȱshopȱreports,ȱandȱperformingȱotherȱdutiesȱasȱ assigned.ȱ K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— ȱ Qualifications:ȱ Goodȱ communicationȱ skills,ȱ Name basicȱ computerȱ skills,ȱ andȱ aȱ professionalȱ Address appearanceȱ andȱ mannerismȱ required.ȱ ȱTheȱ City State Zip code abilityȱ toȱ workȱ duringȱ allȱ orȱ mostȱ ofȱ theȱ Tel: museum’sȱopenȱhours.ȱKnowledgeȱofȱArmenianȱ cultureȱ andȱ historyȱ aȱ plus.ȱ Hourlyȱ rateȱ Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 commensurateȱwithȱexperience.ȱ Mail your check with this form to: ȱ Pleaseȱ sendȱ letterȱ ofȱ interestȱ andȱ resumeȱ to:ȱ TCA Sponsor a Teacher 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 Searchȱ Committee,ȱ ALMA,ȱ 65ȱ Mainȱ street,ȱ Watertown,ȱ MAȱ 02472,ȱ orȱ viaȱ eȬmailȱ Your donation is Tax Deductible. [email protected]ȱȱȬȱNoȱphoneȱinquiriesȱplease.ȱ

S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ANSEF in Forefront of Stemming Armenia’s Brain Drain

Armenia, from ancient times, “has con - his research in cardiovascular dis - By Florence Avakian tributed tremendously in the sciences,” he con - eases and is the author of 250 tinued, citing among many others, Karahoonch papers and two books. Chobanian (an Armenian version of Stonehenge, predating is also a founding member of NEW YORK — Looking into the heavens, Dr. the British one) and Medzamor as possible ANSEF. Areg Mickaelian leads the Armenian Virtual ancient sites for astronomical observations, and “Though ANSEF’s grants of Observatory project. Chemist Dr. Astghik more recently Armenia’s preeminent Byurakan $5,000 covers only a small need, Shahkhatuni continues to make dramatic Observatory, and its world famous astronomer, nonetheless ANSEF has done a advances in decoding the human genome. And the late Viktor Hampartzumian. “During the great job in these 12 years. It has Hamlet Martirosyan studies Armenology and Soviet period, after Russia, Armenia was the put research on a more peer- the history of the Armenian nation. most notable and productive Soviet country in reviewed basis so that it’s not a These three scholars are a few of more than the sciences — physics, astronomy and mathe - political decision,” he explained, several hundred intellectuals during the last 12 matics,” he added. adding that in Armenia, “they know years in Armenia who have received the Started in the late 1990s by a group of that they have a fair and equal Armenian National Science and Education Armenian-American scientists, ANSEF was cre - process with us to get grants. It (ANSEF) grants of $5,000, each to further and ated to fundraise in the United States and finan - puts a quality stamp on the grants enhance their valuable research and prevent cially aid scientists and scholars (and graduate and gives the grant recipients some - Armenia’s brain drain. students) in Armenia. In its first year, the com - thing special to include on their Set up by the Fund for Armenian Relief mittee received 85 proposals, 26 percent of curriculum vitae.” (FAR), ANSEF has awarded grants totaling $1.4 which were granted ANSEF Awards. By the sec - By the high number of publica - million thus far. ond year, there were 269, with 10 percent tions published in journals, the “ANSEF’s mission is to maintain and receiving money, and now in its 12th year, more “cost-to-benefit ratio is very posi - strengthen Armenia’s intellectual community than 200 proposals were submitted. tive. And it says a great deal for the by providing peer reviewed research awards to The process of selection is done by a com - quality of the people in Armenia. support scientific, technological and scholarly mittee of Armenian-American scientists, as well They have done so much for so lit - Dr. Yervant Terzian research,” stated Dr. Yervant Terzian, in a tele - as non-Armenians. It involves weekly meetings tle. It is an excellent philanthropic phone interview. One of the founders of ANSEF by telecommunication, reviews and evaluations program,” Chobanian said. and chairman of the ANSEF Board and its by experts and ranking by the research com - “My interest in ANSEF was a natural out - enough students at Yerevan State University Research Council, he is the Tisch Distinguished mittee, with the final selection made before the come of the excellent potential in Armenia that getting PhDs. There is a general need to review University Professor at Cornell University’s New Year, and a final ceremony in Yerevan, was being lost after independence,” said Dr. where we are, where to go and how to get Department of Astronomy and Space Sciences, either at the Academy of Sciences or the offices Mihran Agbabian, another ANSEF founding there.” and was the department chairman from 1979 to of FAR. Grant recipients get the first half of the and Research Committee member. Former Garnik Nanagoulian, executive director of 1999. A recipient of many honors, he has money immediately; after six months, they chairman of the Department of Civil FAR, said “this small landlocked country of authored more than 230 scientific publications, write a progress report, after which they receive Engineering at the University of Southern Armenia has an amazing vitality for talent. and is the director of NASA’s New York Space the second half of the funds. California, he is also a founding president of the ANSEF is one of the major projects of FAR Grant Program to enhance science education During the project’s 12 years, the ANSEF American University of Armenia which is noted for its charitable work involving and research. researchers have made research reports which “There were brilliant scientific minds willing orphans, single mothers, the elderly and the Born in Alexandria, Egypt, to a Greek moth - have been published in more than 700 scientif - to tackle new projects. The National Academy less fortunate. However, it is gradually doing er and an Armenian father, he recalled as a ic publications, most in international leading of Sciences in the US in 2004 made a total eval - more and more things in research, science and child seeing the stars “shining like diamonds in journals. “We are very proud of our scientists in uation of sciences in Armenia, and was amazed education.” the sky.” By age 7, he had already given a lec - Armenia. They have been submitting outstand - at the capability and organic structure under Paying tribute to the “visionary donors,” he ture to his fellow boy scouts. From that preco - ing proposals at the cutting edge of world class the USSR, which was now sitting idle. And the named in particular the very generous contri - cious childhood, he became one of the most research in many research areas,” said Terzian, Armenian Academy of Sciences was hungry for butions of Armen Avanessians, Jerry respected researchers in radio astronomy in the revealing that 49 percent were in the physical involvement in research, but there was no Turpanjian, the Dadourian family and Dr. world. sciences, 28 percent in the natural sciences, 15 money,” Agbabian said. It was revealed that the Sarkis Kechejian. “We hope the Armenian intel - percent in engineering and 8 percent in the budget of the Armenian government only allo - lectuals in the US can understand the crucial Alarming Brain Drain humanities. cated 1 percent for scientific work — approxi - importance of this noble project and support “After the fall of the Soviet Union, the sci - “Education is the core of all of this,” stressed mately $2.9 million in 2004, and this tiny their peers,” he said in conclusion. ences were in an awful and really terrible con - Terzian, adding that “for a country to prosper, amount would have to support 2,000 scientists. After 12 years of hard work, ANSEF will cel - dition,” Terzian explained. Many scientists had be safe and successful, it needs an educated “ANSEF has done a beautiful job so far, but ebrate its successes in a major Forum meeting no work. A large number of them left and went population.” much greater donations are needed from the in Yerevan (Academy of Sciences) this to Europe and North America. “ANSEF was cre - Armenian-Americans, as well as from the September 24. ated to assist and strengthen Armenian intel - Excellent Philanthropic Program Armenian government. If the sciences in ANSEF, operating under the auspices of the lectuals with peer-reviewed research awards to “Armenia’s intellectual resources are most Armenia are not supported, the economy will FAR, provides financial and other material support scholarly and intellectual needs where important because Armenia has no natural suffer and emigration of the intellectuals will resources to support scientific research, financial conditions are difficult. In order for resources,” stated Dr. Aram V. Chobanian. A for - increase,” said Agbabian. advanced technology development and scholar - the country to advance, intellectual leaders are mer president of Boston University, dean of the “The leaders of Armenia should be encour - ly work in the Republic of Armenia. needed to take leadership roles and educate the School of Medicine and provost of its medical aged to financially help the youth to study and For more information about ANSEF, visit next generation.” campus, he is the recipient of many awards for receive doctorates in the sciences. There are not www.ansef.org.

Mirror-Spectator Presents Gregory Adamian the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award at May Gala

ADAMIAN, from page 1 They became so close that when Adamian left pared the college for its transformation into a and Ourselves, the 2007 Ellis Island Medal of His father came to Boston from Aintab after the city, the bar owner organized a farewell university. This new status and name was rec - Honor. Most recently the Eastern Diocese of the Genocide, while his mother’s parents had party which was attended by 75 Armenians liv - ognized by the Massachusetts Board of Higher the Armenian Church of America has fled Kharpert to Worcester even earlier, before ing in Hong Kong at the time. Education in 2008. announced Adamian to be “Armenian Church his mother was born. Consequently, Adamian After leaving the navy, Adamian attended law Adamian was involved in the building of more Member of the Year” for 2012. was born in Somerville, Mass., in 1926. His school on the GI bill at Boston University and than two dozen campus buildings. He increased Adamian was one of the founders of the grandmother, who lived with his parents, could opened an office in Harvard Square. Initially, the endowment from over $350,000 to $60 mil - National Association for Armenian Studies and not speak English, therefore his first language business was not good, therefore he decided to lion when he retired as president. Today it is in Research and served for some 50 years on its and only language was Armenian until he get a master’s degree in public administration the range of $200 million. An adept fundraiser, board. He was president of the Council for began elementary school. The family moved to from nearby Harvard and was granted a fellow - his Armenian contacts came in handy here. He Immigration and Resettlement of Armenians. In Brooklyn for a few years, where the family was ship. Adamian began teaching economics (his was close friends with Detroit industrialists and 1956, he testified at a Washington Senate in a less Armenian environment, but Adamian’s major earlier at Harvard) at Suffolk University philanthropists Alex Manoogian and Edward Committee on the Judiciary hearing on behalf father was hired as a bilingual compositor by in 1951 on a part-time basis, and this led to a Mardigian. Adamian was on the board of the of this organization for a bill to assist Armenian the Armenian Mirror-Spectator and Baikar major change in his life. Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) immigration into the US, together with other and they moved to Watertown. Adamian’s best student turned out to work at when Manoogian was its president, and was fre - prominent Armenians. Adamian skipped several grades to graduate Bentley College and asked him whether he quently invited to lecture for the AGBU. After Adamian was an associate trustee of the high school early and began work at the Hood would like to teach there. He began teaching each lecture, Manoogian would send a check Armenian Assembly of America. He became a Rubber Company, in whose sweatshop-like fac - economics part-time in 1955 while continuing for $5,000 to Bentley. Manoogian donated sev - frequent lecturer on the Armenian Genocide for tory many Watertown Armenians found his law practice. An opening in the law depart - eral hundred thousand dollars to build the pres - Armenian organizations, speaking nearly every employment, including, briefly, artist Arshile ment led him to start teaching business law, ident’s house at the Bentley campus. Mardigian April. Gorky. At the very end of World War II, he and he eventually became chairman of the donated part of the graduate center for Adamian’s ties to the Baikar Association and joined the navy, which sent him to college and department in 1968 and in two more years he $150,000. the Mirror run deep. He worked while young officer training. He graduated from Harvard was appointed president of the college. He His impact on Bentley was recognized in on Saturdays to help wrap newspapers for mail - University and received a commission as an offi - remained president until 1991, when he was many ways, including the creation of the ing. At that time the Baikar offices were on cer. He went to the Pacific for a year after the made chancellor for life. Gregory H. Adamian Professorship in Law and Shawmut Avenue in Boston proper. Adamian war was over. He changed the nature of the college, expand - the Gregory Adamian Award for Teaching was also the keynote speaker at the 50th While providing fuel to naval ships in Hong ing its offerings from one bachelor’s degree to Excellence. anniversary banquet for the Mirror in 1982 Kong, he was told that an Armenian owned the a variety of business and liberal arts disciplines, Adamian has received many honors, includ - and continues today to be a faithful reader and largest bar in the city. When he walked up to as well as master’s programs in six fields. He ing the St. Nersess Shnorhali Medal granted by supporter. This only makes it all the more fit - him and said, “Inch bes es,” or how are you, in created one of the first college centers for busi - the Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin I in ting for the Mirror-Spectator to recognize his Armenian, the man almost had a heart attack. ness ethics in the US. In a sense, Adamian pre - 1998, the Humanity Award from Facing History achievements as an Armenian in America. 12 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Forum Shows for More Diaspora Armenians, Love of Homeland Is No Longer Blind

FAIRLAWN, N.J. — Thanks to the enthusiastic response to last is for the most part muted. Some argue that criticizing the help Armenia find they are not welcomed by the established diaspora year’s first “Truth or Consequences” forum on “Challenges to Armenian government strengthens opposing states and weakens organizations. She urged that more young people in their 20s and 30s, Human Rights and Rule of Law in Armenia,” a series of public Armenia, while others harbor the belief that no mechanism exists who are “fearless” and believe that “anything is possible,” should be forums has been organized. Owning up to the specific challenges for engagement on these issues. The real problem, however, is less embraced by the boards of such organizations. facing the homeland and the role of the diaspora in overcoming in these considerations and more in the set of values that form the them requires a deeper understanding of the issues involved. To foundations of the relationship between the Diaspora and Doing Business or Humanitarian Work in Armenia that end, the second “Truth or Consequences” forum took place Armenia, as well as concepts of what is and is not important to On the subject of direct investment in Armenia, Hovnanian on April 20, titled “Challenges to Armenia-Diaspora Relations.” Armenia. Democratic ideals and aspirations and respect for human noted the excessive time and patience it takes to work through the The forum was again co-sponsored by a diverse group of dias - rights take a back seat to notions — or should I say perceptions – complex and confusing regulations involved in doing business pora organizations, including: Armenian Bar Association; of stability and tranquility. Whether it be civil society building or there. She agreed, however, that direct investment in Armenia’s Armenian Engineers and Scientists Association (ASEA) of NY/NJ; promoting sustainable economic development in Armenia, sadly, economy was an important component of creating a community of Armenian Human Rights Advocates; Armenian National the diaspora is more absent than not.” diasporan stakeholders with real impact on the nation’s economy Committee (ANC) of New Jersey; Knights of Vartan; the National and governance. Yet she admonished diasporans to exercise Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) and the Influence of Diaspora on Armenia’s Affairs extreme caution in such endeavors, citing the cases of Dr. Carol New York Armenian Students Association (ASA). Panossian offered other sobering revelations on the diaspora’s Ann Najarian and the Hovnanian family’s travails. She believes the More than 150 attendees gathered at the St. Leon Armenian role and influence in Armenia. He began by questioning the very root of their troubles was partnering with the wrong people. Church in Fairlawn to hear three panelists give their unique perspec - definition of the Armenian Diaspora itself. He cautioned that it is “Never do what you would never do in America,” she said. “Trust tives on the state of relations between the diaspora and Armenia. far from a monolithic entity. He divided the diaspora into distinct but verify,” she said. Returning as moderator, Arda Haratunian, a strategic commu - categories, i.e. the “established” diaspora, encompassing descen - Since the Armenian government does not promote an environ - nications and crisis management professional from New York, wel - dants of Genocide survivors and “post-Soviet” diaspora composed ment in which recourse through the courts can be achieved fair comed the participants. She also noted that the deputy minister of emigrants from Armenia since 1988. One could subdivide these and square, extraordinary diasporans such as Najarian are alienat - of diaspora relations had been invited to participate on the panel, groups further, each with incongruent perspectives. He described ed. “We lost the inspiration of a woman who was truly at the fore - but declined. In her opening remarks, Haratunian reiterated the the former group as having more emotional links with the front of improving the health care system in Armenia,” said concept behind the forums. “We lay out the truths; understand the Armenian homeland and concerns with Genocide recognition and Hovnanian of Najarian. consequences of inaction; and help set up a framework about what the latter more tied to the republic with family and structural con - This point was underscored with the presentation of a short to do next.” cerns. He mentioned how, for example, Armenian student politics video related to the case of Nareg Hovnanian, a US citizen and Guest speaker, Edgar Martirosyan, is an Armenia-born attorney, is changing in Western universities as more Armenia-born stu - member of the Armenian-American community of New Jersey. practicing in Los Angeles. He is also a board member of Policy dents study in North America and Europe. He believes they are Various high-profile Armenian-Americans such as Carla Forum Armenia, a global think-tank engaged in critical analysis of starting to challenge some of the diaspora’s established percep - Garapetian, Serj Tankjian and John Hodian expressed their out - policies and trends impacting Armenia and its future. tions regarding Armenia and diasporan politics. rage over the way the Armenian government is allowing Nareg Joining him as a panelist was Edele Hovnanian, founder of Most important, he explained, is the shift in the diaspora’s cen - Hovnanian’s human rights to be abused. Notables in Armenia’s Birthright Armenia, an international organization that enables ter of gravity. Contrary to popular belief, the largest Armenian cultural community also voiced concern that mistreating someone young diasporan adults to live and work as interns in Armenia. diaspora is now in Russia, the source of the most money sent back who works so hard to bring free expression and creative inspira - Razmik Panossian, PhD, a newcomer to the Armenian-American to Armenia. To understand this new paradigm, Panossian sug - tion to the people would send the wrong message to other well- community via Canada, also participated. In addition to writing gested that a study be commissioned to find areas of common intentioned diasporans. many books and articles on Armenian subjects, he is an interna - interests and differences between diasporans of Russia and the tional human rights expert and a longtime commentator on West. The Bottom Line: What Can Be Done? Armenia-diaspora relations. Panossian brought a wealth of global Panossian also broke with conventional wisdom by advocating The presenters deemed the question-and-answer session as experience to the complex nature of the subject. for a decentralized diaspora, remarking that the diversity of per - thoughtful and telling about the mindset of the audience. Some The themes and concepts each raised during their presentations spectives and institutions could serve as a benefit, given that the asked why the major organizations don’t stand up for democratic created a lively exchange of ideas and information. They also elicit - large diasporan organizations are not in the best position to be values or try to influence Armenia’s governance. Hovnanian ed hard-hitting questions from a diverse and multi-generational change leaders. Nevertheless, he went on to say that the diaspora explained that these organizations often have to walk a fine line audience — from cultivating effective diaspora leaders and invest - had a role to play as the “conscience” of the Armenian republic. with the government, especially since their ongoing programs and ing in Armenia as stakeholders to overcoming poverty in Armenia He urged that it remain critically engaged insofar as asking the services require the cooperation of the local authorities for per - as a pre-requisite to political change. The role of the Armenian legitimate questions. mits etc. Panossian maintained that the hope does not lie with the Church and big-name diaspora organizations in promoting human Another way the diaspora can become more constructively large organizations with their vested interests but rather with rights was also brought up, as well as the pros and cons of creat - engaged in Armenia’s affairs, Panossian asserted, was in foreign smaller groups. He suggested that even just a handful of people ing a diaspora venture capital fund, among other ideas. affairs impacting Armenia. A clear example is the prospect of a war with a good idea could organize for positive change. Throughout the two-hour discussion, the main principle upon between Israel and Iran, which would be “absolutely detrimental” Panossian also posited that any graft and siphoning of diaspo - which all panelists agreed, was that the idealized relationship does to the security of Armenia. He recommended that the diaspora ran funds to Armenia weren’t nearly that significant in the scheme not and never really did exist. The real question is where we go organize itself as a “peace lobby” to help avoid such a war in of things. Unlike in the early years in which diasporan funds were from here and how. Armenia’s neighborhood. a major portion of Armenia’s budget, today they are “loose The centerpiece of the discussions was a report released by In his concluding remarks, Panossian mentioned that despite all change” compared with those of non-diasporan sources from Policy Forum Armenia in 2010, titled “Armenia-Diaspora the criticisms of Armenia’s government, it deserved credit for Europe and the US. This is where corruption is far more substan - Relations: 20 Years Since Independence.” This groundbreaking 57- establishing a ministry of diaspora affairs, for allowing dual citi - tive and damaging to Armenia’s economy. page report offers insights into what it characterizes as a troubled zenship for a nominal fee and through a simplified process and for Another issue raised multiple times was how daily economic relationship between Armenia and its worldwide diaspora. The engaging in other initiatives that reach out to the diaspora. hardships and persistent poverty sap the will of Armenia’s citizens report provides historical context, rigorous research, professional At the same time, Panossian stated that “there is a red line in to press for reforms. Too often, the way to overcome economic analysis and commentary from thought leaders around the world. Armenia — that if it is crossed by diasporans the consequences inequities wrought by rampant corruption is to leave the country. These elements combine to identify the critical issues at play and tend to be severe: challenging the oligarchy and monopolistic cap - As in the last forum, the issue of depopulation was posed as one innovative solutions for going forward. A noteworthy key finding, italistic system.” He described the underlying message as “don’t of the most serious threats to the security and survival of the for example, is that the March 2008 presidential election in try to invest in a way that is going to challenge our monopoly.” He Armenian homeland. Armenia was the major turning point in widening the chasm added, “This is what depresses me most.” Hovnanian said, “The court systems, the tax systems, the lack of between the diaspora and the people of Armenia. The full report, rule of law, those things will come but not come from us. That day in addition to reports on other timely issues, can be viewed at Human Ties that Bind Diaspora to Homeland will come, I believe, when every Armenian in Armenia has a job, www.pf-armenia.org. Hovnanian began her introduction by stressing that she was not their children have an opportunity for a good education, the an apologist for the Armenian government and recognizes that the healthcare system is not too expensive and is quality and their Key Issues in Diaspora-Armenia Relations taxation and judicial systems are deeply flawed. “The days of being stomachs are full. I believe they will rise up. The reason the popu - The main theme of Martirosyan’s presentation was that, despite shocked that there are bad things about Armenia are over,” she lace is not as engaged as they should be, as we want them to be, the diaspora’s best intentions to develop democratic values and declared. “I think we are much more pragmatic today than were is they have so many other issues.” She encouraged the audience prosperity in Armenia, on balance, it has failed to achieve its vision. right after the earthquake.” to keep working in that direction, to keep caring, but to realize He noted that the diaspora leadership, in the form of various orga - At the same time, she reminded the audience of the emotional that sweeping change had to come from Armenia’s citizens them - nizations, political parties and institutions, has long exhibited a and cultural dimensions of the diaspora-homeland relationship are selves. pattern of aligning itself with the government, either tacitly or the glue that would bind present and future generations to Finally, the feedback from the leave-behind surveys indicated vocally. Ironically, their stance is often at cross-purposes with the Armenia. She described how her own passion for Armenia led her that despite all the challenges raised, most respondents came away very populace the diaspora purports to want to help or the values to found Birthright Armenia. with a “better understanding of the factors at play” and are that its own constituencies espouse. The concept behind Birthright Armenia is that every diaspora “inspired to become more engaged with Armenia.” The over - This dissonant and often hypocritical behavior on the part of the young adult deserves the opportunity to experience that special whelming response was that the presentations were very informa - diaspora has resulted in mistrust among those in Armenia work - connection to his or her ancestral homeland. By total immersion tive, the audience would like to stay engaged with the issue, ing toward building a true democracy. At the same time, the dias - in the life of the country, residing with families and working as receive updates, attend future forums, as well as donate to orga - poran institutions’ mostly passive response to political and social interns over an extended period, a new generation of diaspora nizations or groups working to promote civil society in Armenia. crises, such as the mass protests and deadly police actions of leaders will emerge. They will be ready to engage Armenia as cred - Clearly, the task ahead is providing the platforms and channels March 2008, has emboldened the Armenian government to dis - ible and informed players with local counterparts with whom they through which the momentum for change can be harnessed most miss the diaspora as a force to be reckoned with. bonded during their formative years. Some will even return to productively. Martirosyan elaborated on how the diaspora has not been able Armenia to plant a stake in the nation as residents, entrepreneurs With that in mind, the next forum in the “Truth or to engage Armenia in any meaningful way with respect to gover - or community organizers. “People say how can we engage. On Consequences” series will focus on “Challenges to Fair Elections nance, public service reforms and civil society building. whatever scale you can, you do the one thing in Armenia that you and Democracy Building in Armenia.” It is scheduled for May 18, “Corruption and state capture continue to debilitate the State feel the most passionate about,” said Hovnanian. in the aftermath of the parliamentary elections in Armenia slated largely unabated and the diaspora’s response to the deficiencies Hovnanian, later in the conversation, pointed out that many for earlier that month. The guest speaker is Alex Sardar of and inefficiencies of systematic governance and state of corruption Birthright Armenia alumni who come home inspired and energized to Counterpart International in Armenia. S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 Arts & Living

Armenian Night at Filmmaker Nora The Pops to Feature Armani’s ‘Moving Clarinetist Narek Stories’ Premieres Arutyunian At Cannes Festival BOSTON — The Friends of Armenian Culture Society (FACS) will present the 61st CANNES, France — “Moving Stories,” a narra - annual Armenian Night at the Pops on tive fiction short film directed and produced by Friday, June 8 at 8 p.m. at Symphony Hall. filmmaker/actress Nora Armani of Parev The evening will feature the young clar - Productions (New York-Paris), was chosen as part inetist Narek Arutyunian. Music director of the official selections of The Cannes Film Keith Lockhart will lead the Boston Pops Festival, one of the world’s oldest and most pres - orchestra. tigious film festivals, and will be presented in the Arutyunian will perform Vittorio Monti’s Short Film Corner category, it was announced Czardas , Kroonk by Komitas and the Jazz this week. Clarinet Concerto by legendary clarinetist Armani conceived and developed the idea for Artie Shaw. The evening will also pay tribute “Moving Stories” in late January, scripted in to American song-writer Cole Porter as part February, began shooting immediately through of Pops’ 2012 celebration theme, “Visions of mid-March and finished post-production immedi - America.” Broadway stars Jason Danieley ately before the entry dead - and Marin Mazzie will perform a collection line to the festival. All the of songs, including Another Opening, while she was in the midst Anything Goes, Another Show and So In of moving from one New Love . York City residence to Arutyunian, 19, is a player who “reaches another — the 18th move passionate depths with seemingly effortless during her adult life. technical prowess and beguiling sensitivity” “Moving Stories” focus - (Washington Post) . As a winner of the 2010 es on two women whose Young Concert Artists International lives become intertwined Auditions, he was presented in recital debuts by the apartment one is Nora Armani in the Young Concert Artists (YCA) Series at leaving and the other is entering. One woman, leav - New York’s Merkin Hall and at the Kennedy From left, Narek Hakhnazaryan, Ran Dank and Hahn-Bin Center in Washington, DC. ing behind New York, her hometown of 40 years, This season Arutyunian performs as is relocating back to Germany, and the other soloist with the Meridian Symphony and woman moving yet one more time, as someone appears in recitals and residencies at who has had many moves in various locations Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, spanning cities, countries and continents. Many Young Talents to would relate to how traumatic it can be, as well the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, Music for Youth and the Buffalo as how liberating. Chamber Music Society. Having just been through a whirlwind of non- Arutyunian has performed at the Louvre stop productions, Armani admits her excitement Auditorium in Paris and at the Palazzo del Perform in Alice and delighted surprise. “I am thrilled and so hon - Principe in Genoa. He has appeared as ored to once again participate in the Cannes Film soloist with the Prague Radio Symphony Festival,” she said. “I’m genuinely moved by the Orchestra in the Czech Republic and in acceptance, as this film is part of my life story, my Russia with the Kaliningrad Philharmonic, Tully Hall moving journey. I’m looking forward to the trip the Moscow Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra to Cannes and being inspired by and possibly and the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra. meeting all the cinema greats who will attend.” Arutyunian’s clarinet is a personal gift from NEW YORK — Three noted Young Concert Artists (YCA) alumni, cellist Narek “Moving Stories” features the music of Jean- the conductor and violinist Vladimir Hakhnazaryan, pianist Ran Dank and violinist/performance artist Hahn-Bin, will Jacques Lemêtre, cinematography by Matthew Spivakov. perform as part of the YCA concert at Alice Tully Hall on Wednesday, May 9, at 7 Hefferin, and the film is edited by Harry Glennon. Already an award winner including first p.m. Each has achieved exceptional recognition in their careers. The cast includes Sheilagh Weymouth opposite prize at 16 in the International Young At the age of 22, Hakhnazaryan won the gold medal at the 2011 International Armani in the lead, as well as Laurie Folkes. Musicians Competition in Prague and at 15 Tchaikovsky Cello Competition in Moscow. He also won the Prize for Best Not only an inventive filmmaker, Armani is a in the Musical Youth of the Planet Performance of the Chamber Concerto and the Audience Prize. A winner of the well-respected actress who was educated and Competition in Moscow, Arutyunian was 2008 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, his debut opened both the trained in England and France and has appeared also awarded a prize by renowned violist and Young Concert Artists Series at Zankel Hall and at the Kennedy Center in on stage and screen worldwide performing in conductor Yuri Bashmet to perform con - Washington, DC that same year. He has performed at the Young Concert Artists many languages. She is also starring in another certs and record the Weber Concertino for Festival in Tokyo and toured extensively including appearances as soloist with the film, “Was My Whole Life Wrong,” directed by clarinet with the State Symphony Orchestra Pasadena Symphony, Hilton Head Symphony, the Boston Pops, the London Maxine Pugh, also in this year’s Cannes Festival of New Russia. Symphony Orchestra and the Mariinsky Orchestra under Valery Gergiev, the Short Film Corner. Born in Gumri, Armenia, Arutyunian’s Moscow Philharmonia and in recital in the Caramoor Rising Stars series and the Armani is no newcomer to the Cannes family moved to Moscow when he was 3. He Ravinia Festival’s Rising Stars Series. Croisette as she co-produced the film “HAIFA,” graduated from the Moscow State Dank won first prize in the 2008 Hilton Head International Piano Competition. As by Rashid Masharawi, starring Hiam Abbas and Conservatory where he worked with Evgeny a winner of the 2009 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, he made his New Mohammad Bakri, which was previously present - Petrov. He currently lives in New York and York debut in the YCA Series in the Jerome L. Greene Foundation Concert. At the ed in the official selection “Un Certain Regard” works with Charles Neidich at the Juilliard Auditions, he was also honored with the John Browning Memorial Prize, the Albany section at the Festival. School. Symphony Prize and the Embassy Series Prize for a concert in Washington, DC. Her multi-faceted background also includes Tickets for the concerts are available for Dank also performed in the Hayes Piano Series at the Kennedy Center, the organizing film weeks and special screenings at purchasing online at www.FACSBoston.org. Morgan Library and Museum in New York, and as soloist with the Phoenix, Ann the Institute of Contemporary Art, The British Arbor and Pensacola symphonies as well as the orchestras of Jerusalem, Rishon Library and the Ciné Lumière French Institute in Lezion and Raanan in his native Israel. A protégé of Emanuel Ax, he currently London, Le Centre Pompidou in Paris and guest works with two other YCA alumni, Richard Goode and Ursula Oppens. curating film festivals such as AFI (Los Angeles A winner of the 2009 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, violin vir - and The Kennedy Center, Washington, DC), the tuoso Hahn-Bin’s critically-acclaimed debuts opened the Young Concert Artists Kerala Film Festival and the Silver Lake Film Series at Zankel Hall and at the Kennedy Center. A protégé of Itzhak Perlman, with Festival. whom he worked from the age of 14, he has developed a unique performance art She will be seen in the upcoming pilot “Golden which dramatically enhances his musical performance. His acclaimed recital project, Boy” for CBS appearing opposite Theo James “The Five Poisons,” included appearances in New York at the Rubin Museum of Art and will soon be working on a 30-episode and Le Poisson Rouge, in Los Angeles at the Hammer Museum and in Berlin at the Egyptian TV series to be filmed in part in Paris. Konzerthaus. He performed Soliloquy for Andy Warhol to huge crowds at the Armani currently divides her time between Museum of Modern Art throughout the show’s two-month installation in New York. New York and Paris. Hahn-Bin has appeared at the Auditorium du Louvre in Paris, the Kennedy Center The 65th annual Cannes Film Festival kicks off in Washington, DC, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, as well as in on May 16 and continues through May 27. the Far East with the Queensland Orchestra in Australia and all of the major For more information, visit Korean orchestras including the Seoul, Bucheon and Daejeon Philharmonics, both http://www.noraarmani.com/ and in Korea and on tour in Japan. Born in Seoul, Korea in 1987, he began playing the http://movingstoriesthemovie.wordpress.com. Clarinetist Narek Arutyunian violin at the age of 5. For more information about the Cannes Film Festival, visit http://www.festival- cannes.fr/en/festival.html. 14 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING ‘To Know Wisdom and Instruction: Library of Congress’ Exhibit Celebrates 500th Anniversary of Armenian Printing

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PHOTOS/ABBY BRACK LEWIS collections, general reference and anything By Aram Arkun involving special events.” For example, he cre - Mirror-Spectator Staff ated the Vardanants Lecture Series in 1994, and represents the Library at important confer - ences. He gives briefings about the collection, WASHINGTON — The 500th anniversary of and seminars on Armenia for the government. Armenian printing this year provides an oppor - He also recommends items in non-Armenian tunity to highlight the prominent early role languages for other Library of Congress read - Armenians, who at that time already had lost ing rooms. He helps provide reference informa - statehood and had their homeland come under tion to visitors and responds to long-distance foreign rule, played in the Near East in this requests for help. field. It also is an opportunity to present some Avdoyan purchases books for the library from of the fruits of centuries of Armenian literary Armenia, Europe and the Middle East through and cultural work. While the United Nations various vendors around the world, and also Educational, Scientific and Cultural engages in exchange programs. He said, “We do Organization (UNESCO) selected Yerevan as work very closely with partner libraries in this year’s world capital book city, there are Armenia, especially in book exchanges. We now exhibitions and conferences taking place have 14 exchange partners.” The American throughout the world. In the US, the Library of embassy in Armenia will transport books Congress, thanks to the efforts of curator Dr. exchanged from Armenia to the United States. Levon Avdoyan and a team of staff members, Avdoyan feels that though Armenian-language inaugurated a beautifully designed exhibit on printing declined initially after Armenian inde - April 19, titled “To Know Wisdom and pendence, it has increased again (though it is Instruction: The Armenian Literary Tradition at not as prolific as in the Soviet period). The cost the Library of Congress.” It will remain on dis - of new Armenian-language books has gone up, play until September 26 of this year, Monday- Levon Avdoyan at the opening reception for the exhibit while their print runs have generally decreased. Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is Avdoyan is constantly trying to fill in the gaps no charge for access to this exhibit. in the library’s collections. He said, “We always The exhibit includes 76 items from as early as sored by outside grants. In this case, Armenian- became the Armenian and Georgian Area welcome gifts. Last fall we received two the 14th century, and as late as 2010. The early American foundations were the sponsors, Specialist, a position he continues to hold manuscripts, fabrics and silver objects from manuscripts on display show that Armenia had including the Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund, today. He actually is the first to hold this posi - American-Armenians whose ancestors brought a long and illustrious literary tradition which the Dadian Fund of the Library of Congress, tion in the Library, though there were these items after the Armenian Genocide. Three quickly was transformed by the adoption of Roger Strauch and Julie Kulhanjian Strauch, Armenian cataloguers before him, and during are in the present exhibit.” The library pre - printing. The exhibit includes the first complete the Vartkess and Rita Balian Family his tenure, the collection grew from over 7,000 serves and maintains such rare items. Although Armenian-language printed bible from Foundation and the Sami and Annie Totah to 45,000 items (comprising 16,300 unique there is a limited budget for purchase of older Amsterdam (1666), the first modern Armenian Family Foundation. titles) in the Armenian-language. These items items, Avdoyan feels it has been ample for what novel, the first transcription of the Armenian An evening pre-opening reception on April 18 are accessible to readers in the African and he has found. liturgy with European musical notation in the with Dr. Vartan Gregorian, president of the Middle Eastern Reading Room, while non- The Library of Congress is not a lending Carnegie Armenian language items pertaining to library, so Armenian items will always be acces - Corporation of New Armenians are held in different divisions of the sible to visitors. However, as the collection York, as keynote library. increases in size, more items will be placed in speaker attracted Avdoyan pointed out during this interview off-site storage because of space shortages in approximately 160 that the library’s Armenian collection is of fair - the library. It generally takes one day for an people, while anoth - ly recent origin. It only possessed some 200 item to be brought to the reading room from er 160 people, coin - items before a committee of Armenian storage, so readers have to order such items cidentally, attended Americans chaired by Arthur Dadian and ahead of time. Avdoyan is allowed to decide the next day’s lec - including noted scholar Sirarpie Der Nersessian which items are suitable for transferal to stor - tures. Dr. Kevork was created in 1948 to assist the Armenian lan - age. Bardakjian (Marie guage collections at the Library of Congress. Digitalization may eventually be a partial Manoogian Chair of Libraries in other countries have much older solution, but at the moment, it must be large - Armenian Language collections, yet the Library of Congress has now ly paid for by outside funds. Avdoyan said that and Literature at turned into a major resource for Armenian stud - arranging for it to take place is a matter of the University of ies. This exhibition serves to call the attention workflow in the Library of Congress. Michigan, Ann of scholars worldwide to this resource, in addi - Furthermore, the technology itself is still Arbor) delivered the tion to informing a broader public. Avdoyan is immature and being perfected. There is not, 16th annual very proud that the Library “is a very demo - for instance, an acceptably reliable optical Vardanants Day cratic institution. Anyone over the age of 16 can character recognition software for the Lecture on the use it, whether American or not, and without Armenian language, according to Avdoyan. Armenian alphabet and literary identity, on April 19, followed by curator Avdoyan’s discus - sion of the continu - “To know wisdom and instruction, A Visual Survey of the Armenian Literary ity and change of Tradition from the Library of Congress” 2011. Written and curated by Levon Armenian identity in Avdoyan, Armenian and Georgian Area Specialist. Library of Congress “the digital age.” A free concert by Armenian cellist 19th century, an 18th-century phylactery or Narek Hakhnazaryan (tickets are required prayer scroll and various rare 19th-century pub - through ticketmaster.com) will help celebrate lications. Maps, such as one of Yerevan in the the exhibition and the Armenian cultural her - early 20th century, sheet music and modern itage on May 19 at 2 p.m. diasporan, Ottoman, Soviet and post-Soviet The idea of the exhibit originated with Armenian books and periodicals show the vital - Avdoyan, who submitted it internally through ity and range of Armenian printing. Non-print - an application process. The library welcomed ed items such as manuscript illuminations, elab - the idea. Avdoyan pointed out that “not every orately embroidered fabrics, musical recordings country has had an exhibit at the Library of and photographs highlight the richness and Congress. This is unusual and is an honor for range of the Library of Congress collection. The the Armenians.” Furthermore, this exhibit is exhibit is accompanied by a 100-page illustrated the first in a new series by the library in its year - catalogue compiled by Avdoyan, available at the long Celebration of the Book. library gift shop or at amazon.com. Following the acceptance of the project by The History of Armenia from the beginning of the world until 1784, volume 1, by Mik‘ayel The exhibition is in a prominent area of the the library, Avdoyan lay the matrix for the exhi - Ch‘amch‘ean (Michael Chamchian), Venice: Tparan Petros Vaghvazeants, 1784. Library of Congress Library of Congress that already is attracting bition and selected items that would illustrate African and Middle Eastern Division. tourists and passers-by. Avdoyan noted that all the theme of the Armenian literary tradition, kinds of people are visiting, and hopefully are both from the Near East Section’s collection of being educated. One woman asked, for exam - Armenian-language items and other curatorial ple, whether Armenia was a country. Of course, divisions such as the Geography and Maps the need for documentation, letters or recom - However, all the items in the public domain in many groups of Armenians are also planning Division and the Music Division. mendation, or similar items. One photo ID and the present exhibit will be digitized after it is visits, and Avdoyan is providing guided tours to Avdoyan began working at the Library in 10 minutes later you have a user card.” taken down. Discussions are underway about those who make arrangements in advance. 1977, and as the reference specialist for Avdoyan’s job as area specialist, he explained, obtaining digital copies of Armenian works The exhibition and catalog, like all others pro - Classics, Ancient History, and Byzantine and includes “anything associated with the preser - duced by the Library of Congress, were spon - Mediaeval Studies in 1982. After 10 years, he vation, acquisition or service of the Armenian see PRINTING, page 15 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING Commemoration of Irish, Armenian And Ukrainian Genocides at ALMA Asking for Your Blessing WATERTOWN, Mass. — The Armenian By Lucine Kasbarian Library and Museum of America (ALMA) com - memorated on Sunday, April 22, the Armenian On our cellar walls, you are immortal. Genocide along with the Great Hunger of the Over the years, I’ve conversed with you. Irish people in the 1840s and the Ukrainian I speak the mother tongue your resolute children, my parents, taught me. Genocide of the 1930s. You stare back thoughtfully, through sepia-toned photos. Brief talks were given by Dr. Joseph Downes Your bodies are stocky; you wear clothes you made yourselves. on the Irish Great Hunger, Dr. Dikran Kaligian on the aftermath of the Armenian Genocide Your hands are calloused from planting, building, kneading and mending. and Attorney Paul Rabchenuk on the Ukrainian Your faces are stoic, even when in bridal garb. Genocide. The commemoration was followed by Your expressions carry a worldliness born from suffering and uncomplaining dig - a Ukrainian mass with priest and choir. As each nity. genocide was outlined, it became evident that Almond shaped, your eyes have the heavy lids that is our ancestral birthright. all three had common characteristics and a They betray the sleeplessness of tormented memory, and exhaustion from rebuild - common modus operandi. Further it was also ing shattered lives. apparent that the Great Powers and the US stood aloof. There is little wonder that geno - Sometimes I ask about Dikranagerd, sometimes Sepastia — wishing you could rem - cides have continued through the 20th century inisce. and continue in this century. I long for your folk wisdom, your Old Country ways. An exhibition on the Ukrainian Holodomor is I ask you to recall our gentle kertastan before the seizures, slaughters and destruc - currently on display in the Terjenian-Thomas tion. Gallery (ALMA’s third floor), courtesy of the I try to picture how you subsisted as lambs before wolves. Connecticut Holodomor Awareness Committee, You patiently listen as I speak of the burdens of today’s Armenian — no matter through May 31. ALMA will also be showing the how light when compared to yours, and sometimes just as onerous. documentary “Genocide Revealed: the Ukrainian The Ukrainian Holodomor exhibit is currently on Famine of 1932-1933” on Sunday, May 6 at 2 p.m. display at the Armenian Library and Museum of Then I ask forgiveness for not doing more. The Armenian Library and Museum of America (ALMA). Many times I seek to borrow your strength, your all-seeing wisdom. America is located at 65 Main St. Why did you die before I could know you? In my mind, your penetrating eyes lavish the love only grandparents can give. Year after year, I yearn for you to speak up and say,

“We see you clearly from above. You carry our blood in your veins. You feel our ancient world in your bones. You live with our history. You possess our ethic. You dance and sing authentically. You persist in spite of exile. You know our sufferings. PRESENTEDPRESENTED BBYY TTHEHE FRFRIENDSIENDS OOFF ARMENARMENIANIAN CULCULTURELTURE SOSOCIETYCIE You speak for us. You won’t forsake us. You have our blessing. You do us justice. You are Western Armenia.”

Library of Congress Exhibit Celebrates 500th Anniversary of Armenian Printing PRINTING, from page 14 transfer that knowledge. It took about a year to Friday from other institutions as well as all sorts of learn general reference in the main reading June 8, 2012 other cooperative programs. The Library of room. That was one of the best general learning Congress has also already bought every micro - experiences that I have ever had. You learn so at 8:00 PM film item commercially available on Armenian much while fielding questions about every - Symphony Hall, topics. thing.” Avdoyan became interested in Armenian stud - Avdoyan has published a number of opinion Boston ies and history from an early age. His grand - pieces on Armenian Studies in the past, and parents on both sides of the family were from today is troubled by a general shift in education Kharpert and Bitlis. He spoke Armenian while in the US. He says, “I feel we have in many ways “An“An energeticenergetic stagestage prpresence...”esence...” a very young child in his birthplace of lost our way.” He would like to see greater sup - Providence, but he and his sister stopped speak - port for and strengthening of existing chairs ing after their family moved to Florida. He said, and programs in the field, and is concerned “I’ve always been interested in history. Even in about the poor job market for the new doctor - ForFor TicketsTickeets and Information,Information, pleasepleasse visit: grade school, I loved history, especially ancient ates being produced. history.” “I must say, however, that I spent many years www.FACSBoston.orgwww.FFAACSBoston.orrg Avdoyan went to the University of the South bemoaning the fact that I was not teaching in in Sewanee, Tenn. as an undergraduate to study academia, until I realized what a truly reward - history, and a visit to Dr. Nina Garsoïan of ing career I had at the Library of Congress. Not Columbia University to inquire about how to only was I allowed to build an important learn Armenian led to an invitation to study research collection, but I have also been on doc - there. His doctoral dissertation, later published toral committees, in essence guided others in as a book in 1993, was a translation and analy - the preparation of their dissertations, and have sis of the medieval Armenian work, The History aided others in their research. With a little cre - of Taron . He spent many years learning lan - ativity and initiative, and the enlightenment of guages such as Classical and Modern Armenian our community, I would hope that our gifted and Greek, French, Georgian, German, Italian, young scholars could do the same rather than Latin and Russian. being forced to leave the field. It really has been Avdoyan became Columbia Prof. Morton an honor to serve in this capacity.” Smith’s research assistant for several years, The fate of his own position at the Library of which provided an opportunity to learn Congress is uncertain after he retires, as it is research methodology in ancient history. He unclear what the financial and logistic situation said that the switch to working in a library was will be then. He is not sure how long he will not that hard. One of his first positions in the continue, as there is no formal retirement age, Library of Congress was as a library examiner but after the exhibition concludes, Avdoyan in its Copyright Office. When he became a ref - plans to rest and think about new library pro - erence specialist, he said, “I came in knowing jects and his own future. He would like to get the sources and research methodology for my back to his personal Armenological research subjects of expertise. It was not all that hard to eventually. 16 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING

Lecture at NAASR Winners Announced for 2012 Michigan On Coverage of Armenian Genocide Essay Competition Genocide in New York Times and Awards Presentation Honors Local Missionary Herald Winners BELMONT, Mass. — Anne Elbrecht of Davis, Calif., will give a lecture, titled DETROIT — The Armenian Genocide “Telling the Story: The Armenian Committee of Greater Detroit announced the Genocide in the New York Times and winners of the fifth annual essay competi - Missionary Herald ,” on Thursday, May tion. Awards were presented to the winning 17, at 8 p.m., at the National students at the 97th commemoration of the Association for Armenian Studies and Armenian Genocide event at St. Sarkis Research (NAASR) Center, 395 Armenian Apostolic Church before a large Concord Ave. crowd of guests. Elbrecht’s Telling the Story: The The competition, open to all Michigan High Armenian Genocide in The New York School students, is funded by the Hagopian Times and Missionary Herald, 1914- Family Foundation and was conceived and ini - 1918 (Taderon Press, 2012) focuses on tiated by the late Edgar Hagopian. Perpetuated two important journals to see how news by the metro Detroit Knights of Vartan, the of the Armenian Genocide filtered competition recognizes and awards Michigan through to the United States between high school students who have written a suc - 1914-18. It also looks at how the cessful essay on the Armenian Genocide, the American public reacted to such news first genocide of the 20th century, often called with a humanitarian intervention pro - “the forgotten genocide.” This is the fifth year Winners, from left, Edmond Hagopian, Ashley Pikula, Naghem Albeer, Olivia Kurajian and Suzanne Hagopian gram. that the statewide competition has been offered There were undoubted differences between the two journals, as the New to students with the hope that Seaholm High School, and third place ($150), York Times was a leading news organi - it will stimulate study of the Naghem Albeer, 11th grade, Andover High zation while Missionary Herald was many aspects surrounding the School. part of an institution (the American Armenian Genocide in In addition, each teacher of the student sub - Board of Commissioners for Foreign Ottoman Turkey, 1915-1923. mitting a winning essay was given a $100 Missions) with vested interests in David Terzibashian, committee appreciation award. Turkey. However, the flow of informa - and Knights of Vartan past Winning essays can be read at tion to the outside world was clear and commander and member, and www.annualessaycompetition.com. compelling, especially as many reports Edmond and Suzanne The Armenian Genocide Committee of were actually written by United States Hagopian, representing the Greater Detroit, a group committed to bringing officials in Turkey and leaked to the Hagopian Family Foundation, awareness of the Armenian Genocide, is made press by the State Department in presented the awards as fol - up of members of the Detroit metro Armenian Washington, DC. lows: community including educators, former educa - Elbrecht is a graduate of Wheaton This year’s winners were: tors and business leaders; the founder is the College, University of California, first place ($500), Ashley late Edgar Hagopian; members are Ray Berkeley, School of Library Studies and Pikula, 12th grade, Andover Boujoulian, Corinne Khederian, Ani Kasparian McGeorge School of Law. Telling the High School; second place Paul Kulhanjian, Richard Norsigian, Shirley Story is based on her master’s thesis at From left, David Terzibashian, Edmond Hagopian and Ed Bedikian ($250), Olivia Ann Kurajian, Sarkisian David Terzibashian and Madeline California State University, 10th grade, Birmingham Thomasian. Sacramento. With her late husband, Richard A. Elbrecht, she traveled throughout Turkey photographing Armenian churches, a visual archive now part of the Armenian Studies Program at California State University, Fresno. She has been a member of NAASR’s Board of Directors since CC AA LLEENNDDAARR 2007. Telling the Story: The Armenian Genocide in The New York Times and Missionary Herald 1914-1918 will be available for purchase and signing the night of the lecture. MASSACHUSETTS Admission to the event is free. More information about the lecture is available by e-mailing [email protected] or MAY 24 — Celebrating 80 years and beyond, Benefit Gala of the writing to NAASR, 395 Concord Ave., Armenian Mirror-Spectator. Thursday, reception, 6:30 p.m.; dinner Belmont, MA 02478. 7:30 p.m., Boston Royal Sonesta, Cambridge. Keynote speaker, Vigen Sargsyan, chief of staff of the President of the Republic of Armenia. 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award will be bestowed upon Dr. Gregory H. Adamian, chancellor and president emeritus of Bentley University; 2012 Award of Excellence will be bestowed upon Janet Shamalian, national correspondent for “NBC News” from Texas, and Charles Mahtesian, Politico national policy editor, Washington, DC. For information, call (617) 359-0413.

NEW JERSEY

OCTOBER 28 — Save the date. The Armenian American Support and Educational Center, Hye Doon, celebrates its 35th anniver- sary. Felician College, Lodi. With the participation of Akh’tamar Dance Ensemble and other talented guest performances. Details to On Thursday, May 24, the Armenian Mirror- follow. Spectator will celebrate its 80th anniversary with a banquet, during which several awards NEW YORK and featured speakers will be presented, starting with a reception, at 6:30 p.m., fol - MAY 12 — Shushi hosts a Gala Dinner Dance for an evening of lowed by dinner at 7:30 p.m., at the Boston “Celebration,” 20th anniversary of Shushi’s liberation, Mother’s Day. Anniversary of Shushi Dance Ensemble, Kavookjian Hall, 630 Second Royal Sonesta, in Cambridge, Mass. Among Ave., New York City. Details to follow. the award recipients will be Janet Shamlian, MAY 19 — HMADS Gala Dinner Dance. Details to follow, June 25. pictured above, who is national correspondent Entertainment Fridays HMADS 30th Commencement Exercise at 8 p.m., Kalustyan Hall. for NBC News. and Saturdays SEPTEMBER 29 — Save the date. Armenia Fund 20th Anniversary Gala, 7 p.m. at Gotham Hall in New York City. S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- Ataturk Unmasked

minorities, have to prominently expose: “Proud should feel the By Edmond Y. Azadian person who claims to be a Turk.” This kind of a slogan has fed Spectator feelings of racial supremacy to the Turks, while inducing an infe - riority complex and fear among minority children. A little-known historical event has great significance in deci - Although he promulgated the Hat Law of 1925, forcing Turks phering and defining the racist ideology of today’s Republic of to wear Western-style hats to replace the fez, he could not Turkey; during World War II, Turkey was assisting Nazi change what was under that hat, because he was not interested Established 1932 Germany’s war efforts by supplying raw material to its war in what lay below the surface. machine, in appreciation of Turkey’s support, Hitler allowed the Hur lists a long number of laws, decrees, regulations that An ADL Publication transfer of the remains of Talaat Pasha, his Turkish soul mate, define Ataturk as a racist leader. Only a few examples will suffice assassinated in Berlin in 1921, back home to Turkey, where a to fully understand the true reformist side of the father of the monument was erected in Istanbul’s Liberty Hill (Hurriyet Tepe) Turks. EDITOR as a shrine for all racist Turks to visit and venerate one of the Thus, speaking to a group of Turkish businessman in Adana, Alin K. Gregorian arch-criminals of the 20th century. That monument is still stand - on March 16, 1923, Mustafa Kemal (aka Ataturk) said: “Finally ing, carrying with it symbolism for the Turks and their victims. this land returned to its true owners. The Armenians and others ASSOCIATE EDITOR When historians hold responsible and accountable the present have no rights here. These fertile fields belong to true Turks.” Aram Arkun Republic of Turkey, as the successor state inheriting all the loot In a decree promulgated in June 1923, all Jews, Greeks and ART DIRECTOR generated by the murder of 1.5 million Armenians, they need Armenians were laid off from government and private institu - Marc Mgrditchian also to refer to the symbolism that Talaat Pasha’s monument rep - tions and their travel within Anatolia was banned.

PRODUCTION resents. An April 3, 1924 law stripped the title of all Jewish, Greek and Dilani Yogaratnam Current leaders of Turkey cannot avoid responsibility because Armenian lawyers, allowing the legal profession to be the they have inherited historic Armenian territory and the blood purview of the Turks exclusively. money resulting from the murder of an unarmed nation. A law was passed on August 1, 1926 to confiscate all minori - SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Fortunately, some Turkish scholars, writers and journalists are ty properties acquired before the Lausanne Treaty took effect Edmond Azadian awakening to the fact that the present generation of Turks have (August 23, 1924). on their shoulders an awesome burden of history. One of those Minister of Justice Mahmoud Essat Bozkurd announced on CONTRIBUTORS: writers, Ayse Hur, is revising the history she was taught at school September 18, 1930, in the region of Eodimis: “My idea, my Florence Avakian, Elizabeth Aprahamian, in an article published in Radikal , unmasking the racist policies belief is that this land itself is Turk. Those who are not real Turks Daphne Abeel, Dr. Haroutiune of Ataturk, the founder of the modern Republic of Turkey. Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. and wish to live in this country can only survive as servants or Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der Historian Taner Akçam, through his thorough research, slaves.” And this is a Turkish kind of justice from a minister of Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork reveals that many Ittihadist government functionaries who had justice. This kind of treatment reduced the minorities to the lev - Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , executed Talaat’s orders eventually joined the milli movement of els of rayas (slaves) practiced during the ages of sultans. While Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop Ataturk in laying the foundations of the Republic of Turkey. suppressing Islamic symbols, Kemalists enhanced the rights of Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian However, even Ataturk himself as a young man in the military Muslims and Turks over all minorities. had joined the Union and Progress Party of Talaat and he also Therefore, it is not difficult to detect the red line, which runs CORRESPONDENTS: had a significant role in the Young Turk revolution of 1908 throughout Turkish history from the sultans to the Young Turks Armenia - Hagop Avedikian which deposed the sultan. and then to the Ataturk era, inherited intact by the modern Boston - Nancy Kalajian His hands are not clean as a military man either, as he partic - Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian Republic of Turkey. ipated in colonial wars to put down revolts against the harsh These racist laws are still extant in Turkey. In fact, they have Contributing Photographers: Ottoman rules in Albania (1910) and the Balkans (1912-1913). been codified. What is penal code Article 301, supposedly Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair The same colonial war was waged against Armenians in Cilicia Hovsepian defending Turkishness, if not a muscle to silence dissidents and (1921) and Greeks in Smyrna (1922) under the direct leadership in the first place any one who pronounces the word “genocide?” of Ataturk. It is under that penal code that authorities in Turkey have been Reading through scholarly or journalistic sources in the West, persecuting and prosecuting Orhan Pamuk, Ragip Zarakolu, The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published one is left only with awe and respect vis-à-vis Ataturk as a mili - Hrant Dink and other scholars and journalists. weekly, except two weeks in July, by: tary leader and reformer. No mention, if any, is made of his racist The reason these anachronistic trends and laws have survived Baikar Association, Inc. policies and atrocious war crimes. Reading BBC sources on the is that the army has taken upon itself to safeguard Kemalism, or 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Internet, we come to “admire” the father of modern-day Turkey. the legacy of Ataturk. Indeed, an unelected junta has assumed Telephone: 617-924-4420 The source presents Ataturk, the fatherly figure in the follow - the perpetuation of these laws. FAX: 617-924-2887 ing way: “He [Ataturk] launched a program of revolutionary The feeble voices of scholars and journalists would not have www.mir rorspectator.com social and political reforms to modernize Turkey. These reforms been sufficient to transform Turkey from racism to civilization, included the emancipation of women, the abolition of all Islamic E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com were it not for the pressure exerted by the European Union. institutions and the introduction of Western legal codes, dress, Once Turkey attains a respectable level of civilization then the For advertising: [email protected] calendar and alphabet, replacing the Arabic script with a Latin gates of Europe may become more hospitable. one.” It is also our hope to deal with that kind of Turkey, because To inspire pride in the Turks, he coined racist slogans, one of only a fully civilized nation will be able to demonstrate the SUBSCRIPTION RATES : which to this day, all schools, including the ones belonging to courage to face its abominable history. U.S.A. 2nd Class $75 a year 1st Class $120 a year Canada Air Mail $125 a year stand my employer’s refusal to acknowledge tematically wiped out more than a million of directly and with candor the factual historical its own citizens, shattered the Armenian cul - All Other Countries Truth in the Air Mail $190 a year events we mourn and commemorate as the ture and scattered the survivors into diaspora, Display advertising r at e: $7 per column inch Armenian Genocide. The details are not impor - under the cover of war. Years of effort by the tant. It is sufficient to say that given its posi - Turkish government and the willingness of its Face of tion on this issue, ADL’s fitness to be a com - allies to play along produced doubt and con - munity partner was questioned in a great num - fusion about these events only after the fact. ber of cities and towns. After lots of listening, The spotlight on ADL gave me opportunities © 2011 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator Genocide reading and with the support of family, friends and privileges for which I am deeply grateful. Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA and my regional board of directors, I broke My understanding of why genocide happens is and additional mailing offices. with ADL and stated publicly that I would no as inadequate as anyone’s. But my awareness of ISSN 0004-234X By Andrew Tarsy longer support the organization’s position. I its lasting and intergenerational impact has told the community then and still believe that been magnified. Over the past five years I have POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The we must be candid about history, or we dis - had the privilege to visit with Armenian com - Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, Watertown, MA 02471-0302 The Armenians of the Ottoman Empire were honor the dead and endanger the living. munities around the United States and in victims of genocide: the deliberate extermina - To withhold the use of the term “genocide” Canada and Israel. I have told my story and par - Other than the editorial, views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily tion of a culture and people. This month com - to describe the war on the Armenian people in ticipated in discussions about the power of eflect the policies of the publisher. munities worldwide commemorate these the Ottoman empire is a deliberate calculation words and the legacy of the Armenian Genocide events to remember what was lost and illumi - that values short term political stability over on university campuses, in synagogues, in nate with historical accuracy the events that truth. Make that bargain once or twice in a few teacher-training programs and among family took place. On occasions like this one (and the extreme situations and maybe we will get by and friends. I met with the Armenian archbish - world has too many), we seek a way forward for the moment; but before long it will under - op in Jerusalem and with His Holiness the that both honors the dead and increases the mine the foundation of everything else we Catholicos of all Armenians when he visited Copying for other than personal use or believe in. At that point, nothing important to Boston. I even had the opportunity to share my internal reference is prohibited without safety of the living. express permission of the copyright Five years ago, I was executive director of us will be safe. experiences in the Hague at the International owner. Address requests for reprints or the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) of New The world knew what was happening to the Criminal Court, where I spent two months back issues to: England. With a series of events that began in Armenians at the time the genocide took observing war crimes trials and listened to Baikar Association, Inc. Watertown and came to include communities place. In 1915 alone, there were 145 articles in lawyers and judges debate whether to apply this 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 all over Massachusetts and beyond, I learned a the New York Times about policies and cam - same word — genocide — to the destruction of painful lesson about the power of words. I paigns of deportation and mass killing. The the people of Darfur in the Sudan. spent months in 2007 struggling to under - Ottoman Turkish regime intentionally and sys - see TRUTH, page 18 18 S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY When They Died... Remembering

ing midlifers and a few elderly gems like Areka Der By Gonca Sonmez-Poole Kazarian from Watertown, who will be turning 100 very April 24, 2012 represents the 97th commemoration of one of the soon. I became friends with Harry Parsekian, whose most shameful events in the history of mankind: the beginning of ancestors came from the province of Gesaria (Kayseri in the Armenian Genocide in 1915 at the hands of the Ottoman gov - We are approaching another April 24, the day Turkish), and who, in his effort to bring more and more ernment. Armenians around the world remember the year when Armenians and Turks together across the Atlantic, has In the years that followed, more than 1.5 million Armenians per - thousands of their ancestors perished during what’s made frequent trips to Turkey; I met playwright Joyce ished as a result of being starved, sent to death marches into the widely known as the Armenian Genocide of 1915. I am van Dyke, who was encouraged to write a beautiful play desert and sav - neither a historian nor an international law expert, and based on the story of her grandmother Elmas, a agely murdered. yet I feel compelled to give you a sense of my own per - Genocide survivor from the village of Mezireh and I By Harry N. Mazadoorian The movement sonal journey as it relates to Armenian-Turkish relations. watched and reviewed the videos produced by Roger to attempt exter - I am a 52-year-old Turkish-American woman. I have Hagopian, a rug specialist from Lexington, Mass., who mination of lived in the Boston area for over 30 years, first as a stu - never misses an opportunity to remind me of the Turkish Armenians began by rounding up intellectuals and leaders, moved dent, later as a television producer and most recently as mayor of Marash (where his grandparents were born), on to all able-bodied men and culminated with the barbaric and hor - a mid-career student of international affairs. I must admit who saved the lives of many Armenians during the night - rendous destruction of women and children. The pervasiveness of that it wasn’t until I was in my late 40s that I ever had mare of 1915. I listened to countless stories of loss, both the killings was matched only by its cruelty and bestiality. Property an actual conversation with an Armenian person about physical and emotional, from my newly-found Armenian was confiscated and the sacred churches of the noble and centuries- his or her personal and national history, let alone the friends, and I observed the goodwill gestures of old Armenian religion were desecrated and destroyed. Armenian Genocide. Why? Armenians who overcame their initial fear by making the The brutal events were well chronicled by journalists, diplomats The answer explains why I am compelled to write decision to visit their ancestral homes in today’s Turkey. and leaders throughout the world. Scholars have continued to doc - about my own personal journey and about my relation - But I’ve also learned a few things from my Turkish ument the events in book after book and journal after journal. An ship to two murders a quarter of a century apart. friends and colleagues over these past few years. Turks indisputable mountain of evidence has been accumulated by geno - On May 4, 1982, I learned that a man I knew person - of various backgrounds feel an inordinate amount of cide scholars memorializing not only the events but the mindset ally had been shot to death on his way home from work. pressure when speaking with Armenians about the leading to them. That kind and gentle man was Orhan Gündüz, Turkey’s events of 1915. Because all Armenians call this period Following the Genocide, the Armenian Diaspora spread across the honorary consul to Boston at the time. I had stopped by the Armenian Genocide, and would like to hear the same world with a large number coming to the United States and settling his little souvenir shop in Cambridge, Mass., for a quick from Turks, there is a dialogue of the deaf at work initially in the industrial areas of New England, New York and hello — as it happened, just a few hours before he died. I between these two groups. Many Turkish people — who Michigan and the receptive farmlands of California. Succeeding gen - remember trying to console his wife during a few phone are just starting to learn about their own history — feel erations of the Armenian American community in Connecticut and calls and saying some words of condolence at his funer - that somebody is always trying to shut them up unless throughout this country heard identical eyewitness reports from al. But what I remember most is how Gündüz’s murder they start any sentence with the “G” word. Many Turks parents, grandparents and other relatives and friends who were sur - (a group named Justice Commandos claimed responsibil - today want to be heard; they don’t want their ancestors vivors of the Genocide. ity) confused me so much that I spent the next 25 years labeled “barbarians” who one day woke up and decided Substantial support for Armenian orphans and survivors was ini - avoiding the subject altogether. to slaughter Armenians. tially provided by philanthropic organizations in the United States, During the early ’80s, a few of the area’s Turkish influ - Whether the realization comes after a quarter of a cen - the Near East Foundation being just one example. So shocked was entials often sent me lengthy packages of propaganda tury, as it did for me, or overnight with luck and soul- the world community at the atrocities that trials were conducted of material to submit to my employer at the time, WCVB- searching, I believe that all Turkish people need to know the leaders of the Young Turk regime that perpetuated the cun - TV. The aim was to make sure that nothing outside the and accept one simple truth: somewhere, somehow, an ningly organized and meticulously executed Genocide. official Turkish narrative (which referred to the events of ancestor of theirs may have taken the life of an innocent But alas, memories soon faded and the events of that tragic time 1915 as the “so-called genocide”) would be exposed to Armenian person just because that person was were either forgotten or —incredibly — denied by the successor gov - Western media. This was also the time when the program Armenian. Period. When that bit of information is under - ernments of Turkey. The zealous outrage of many countries sub - I worked on, the news magazine “Chronicle,” was pro - stood, genuinely accepted, digested and settled into the dued in time. Indeed, Adolph Hitler, about to embark the obscene ducing stories about the richness of Boston’s ethnic hearts and minds of every Turkish person, then, and only and massive Holocaust at the time of World War II, denied that makeup. But there was no profile on the relatively small then, can we all start a new chapter. And in that chapter, world opinion would stop him and asked “Who today, after all, Turkish community and when it was time to air the the discussion will no longer be an argument about the speaks of the annihilation of the Armenians.” “Chronicle” program on Armenians, I simply skipped term genocide, the definition of intent or the total tally Today, most of the voices of the Genocide survivors have been work — the first and last time ever in my life. I simply was - of killings on either side; it will simply be a discussion silenced by death or the infirmities of old age. At a Genocide n’t ready to hear the “G” word repeated over the air - about the question how do we deal with the “other?” Commemoration to be held at the Connecticut State Capitol on waves. Orhan Gündüz was killed because he was a Turkish Saturday April 21, only three elderly survivors remain to be honored Over the next two decades, following the Gündüz diplomat and he represented the misguided silence on an and recognized. Both my parents, Genocide survivors, urged their assassination, I simply shunned the subject of the issue that affected millions of the world’s Armenians. children not to let the story be forgotten and attended the com - Armenian Genocide because it was too uncomfortable, Hrant Dink was killed because he was an Armenian from memoration year after year, but are no longer here to participate. too painful and too difficult to deal with. In fact, when I Turkey who spoke up and promoted speaking about the Sadly, efforts to get the United States Congress to recognize and attended a mid-career master’s degree program at the issue. I cried the same tears over those two murders. But condemn the Genocide are met with powerful lobbying opposition Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, I wrote my the - here’s where those two heinous acts diverge in my heart by the government of Turkey. The Congress, shrinking to its fear of sis on the rights of Turkey’s Kurds, bypassing the subject and soul: the first murder led me to years of silence and alienating a Middle Eastern ally, looks the other way. Even the of the Armenians. So through those 20 years, I raised ignorance, but the second led me to knowledge and President of the United States, who vowed in his campaign rhetoric two children, instilling in them my own values of equal truth seeking. And in the words of Martin Luther King to recognize the Armenian Genocide, plays word games and back - rights and social justice, but with one exception: I did not Jr., I truly believe that truth will set us free. In fact, some tracks reneging on a clear campaign pledge. This , despite a verita - speak about the Armenians or the reason that I had equate Dink with King because of his inspiring commit - ble parade of countries, including — just to mention a few — Canada, stopped going into Watertown after the passing of Orhan ment to improving the rights of all of Turkey’s minorities, Germany, France, Australia, Sweden, Switzerland and Italy which Gündüz, whom my children had never met. and his hope to begin a new era of civil rights in that have recognized the Genocide. Then came the summer of 2006, when I received an country. Only time will tell whether Dink’s legacy will Why should we worry about what happened almost a hundred invitation to work on an Armenian-Turkish dialogue indeed transform the country of his birth and death. years ago ask those who turn their back to the historical truth. Why project partly affiliated with Harvard University. As I I wonder what Orhan Gündüz would have said to offend an ally? What good can come from recognizing the Genocide? immersed myself in new knowledge (for example, the Hrant Dink when they were both alive. Alas, we will After all, even the vast majority of the survivors have now died. history of the Ottoman Armenians, missing from all the never know, because we weren’t supposed to dig deep The answer is a simple one and one that has proven true through - school textbooks I read as a child) and new friends (for into our history or give voice to the voiceless during the out the very history of civilization: To ignore a crime against human - example, Armenian Americans with whom I’d been liv - years when Gündüz was alive. ity, whenever and wherever perpetuated, is to condone that crime. ing parallel lives, while never exchanging a word), I So where does all of this leave me, in the tortured land - And even worse, it virtually assures that it will be repeated. To for - heard the news of an assassination. Hrant Dink, a scape of Armenian-Turkish relations? Am I hopeful when get heinous acts is to guarantee — even encourage — their repetition Turkish Armenian newspaper editor, was gunned down I speak to the young generation of Armenians and in the future. A casual reading of front-page news about current in front of his office in Istanbul by a 16-year-old Turkish Turks? Yes. Am I disgusted and appalled when I see clear - atrocities demonstrates and validates this undeniable truth. nationalist. I did not know much about Dink at the ly racist and anti-Armenian propaganda on the streets of Few would deny that the United States should maintain its strate - time. I knew only that he was the founder of Agos , that Istanbul? Without a doubt. Am I ready to give up hope? gic alliances, particularly in the volatile Middle East. But an alliance he had opened the eyes of his traditionally quiet and Absolutely not! I believe that, if not my children’s gener - built upon falsehoods does not stand on a firm foundation. Friends passive Armenian community, encouraging both ation, but maybe my great-grandchildren’s generation speak truthfully to friends. Armenians and Turks to speak openly about their eth - will finally find a way out of this mess. While the Armenian Genocide was the first genocide of the 20th nic identities and their family histories, that countless And finally, as an American citizen of Turkish descent, century, it was not the last. Nor will the brutality stop in the future people in Turkey had discovered their lost Armenian I now use the word genocide when speaking about the until all countries speak with one voice to condemn all of the geno - ancestry through his help. massacres of 1915 because doing otherwise would be a cides of the past. But I didn’t know all of this that fateful morning when retreat into ignorance. I think a lot about those two polit - A recognition of the Armenian Genocide is a compelling place to I turned on the morning news. When I heard Dink had ically charged murders, Gündüz’ and Dink’s, bookends of start. And the moral authority of the United States Congress is the been killed, there was only one thing I knew with sorts in my reeducation journey. And I know I simply voice, which should ring out that recognition. absolute certainty: something horrible and despicable cannot go on denying the true depth of brutality and suf - (A ceremony commemorating the Armenian Genocide was held in had happened, and it was unacceptable. The date was fering brought upon the Ottoman Armenians, and the the Chambers of the House of Representatives at the State Capitol January 19, 2007, 25 years after I had buried the subject animosity and hatred 1915 perpetuated for nearly a cen - on Saturday April 21. The keynote speaker was Dr. Mary A. of the Armenian Genocide. tury. On a more personal level, such a denial would be Papazian, newly-installed President of Southern Connecticut State So for the next five years, I followed a long and wind - an affront to all of my new friends and acquain - University. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has issued a proclamation com - ing road of learning, reading and thinking. I spoke with tances...not only because they happen to be Armenian, memorating the Genocide.) a myriad of Armenians, from a variety of backgrounds but because they are first and foremost human beings and affiliations: overachieving 20-somethings, hard-work - who I care about. S ATURDAY , M AY 5, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY

ished,” “dark chapters of history,” “what occurred in 1915,” silent, Mrs. Clinton has gone from being a proponent of the “facts of the past,” “lives that were taken,” “senselessly suf - recognition of the Armenian Genocide to its leading oppo - fered and died,” and finally, “the darkness of the Meds nent. After becoming secretary of state, she actively lobbied Yeghern.” Anything but genocide! to defeat a proposed congressional resolution on the Engaging in verbal gymnastics on genocide is unaccept - Armenian Genocide. My Turn able and unbecoming of the office of the president of the After four years of this senseless charade by the White United States. Could such deplorable efforts be explained as House, the Armenian-American community has two good By Harut Sassounian a feeble attempt by Obama to minimize his broken promises? reasons for asking President Obama not to make any more As presidential candidate, he repeatedly and solemnly statements on the Armenian Genocide. pledged that he would recognize the Armenian Genocide. First, by breaking his word for four years in a row and Why Does President Obama But when he became president, he hid behind insulting state - playing verbal games with genocide, Obama has lost the Torture Himself and Armenians ments issued in his name year after year. moral standing to speak on this highly emotional and In his last four annual statements, President Obama painful topic! How can the president of the United States Every April 24? avoided carrying out his campaign promises by claiming: “I lecture anyone around the world about human rights, have consistently stated my own view of what occurred in democracy and justice, when he himself has so crudely vio - For some unknown reason, the president of the most 1915. My view of that history has not changed.” But, he lated the trust of his own people and lost all credibility? He powerful nation on earth feels compelled to put himself never bothered to tell the American public what exactly should stop torturing himself, his staff and Armenians through a strange and unnecessary ritual every April 24. were his views in the past, what his views are today and worldwide by not issuing insulting “Remembrance Day” Weeks in advance of that date, President Barack Obama what happened in 1915! He cleverly downplays the signifi - statements. It makes no sense for President Obama to issue orders his White House staff to scour the dictionary to cance of the Armenian Genocide by calling it “my own view an annual statement that Armenians don’t want, don’t like come up with series of words other than genocide to of what happened in 1915.” Yet, on January 19, 2008, then and are offended by it! describe the Armenian Genocide. presidential candidate Obama, seeking the Armenian com - Second, another US president, Ronald Reagan, has For the fourth year in a row, the president’s resourceful munity’s campaign contributions and votes, had no qualms already acknowledged the Armenian Genocide in aides have not disappointed him. For this year’s “Armenian to call these events by their proper name. Back then, he a Presidential Proclamation in 1981. The Armenian Remembrance Day,” they have come up with a dozen confidently stated that “the Armenian Genocide is not an Genocide was also recognized by the House of words that describe the Armenian Genocide without using allegation, a personal opinion or a point of view,” and Representatives in 1975 and 1984, by the Justice that specific term. When they ran out of substitute English promised that “as president,” he would “recognize the Department in an official filing with the World Court in words for genocide, the president’s hardworking word - Armenian Genocide.” 1951 and by 42 US states. Therefore, the Armenian com - smiths turned to an Armenian term, “Meds Yeghern,” with - Sadly, President Obama is not the only member of his munity has no need to beg President Obama or any other out providing its English translation (Great Calamity), so administration who has not kept his campaign pledge on political candidate to recognize that which is already and no one other than Armenians would understand what this issue. Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State repeatedly recognized. President Obama was speaking about. Hillary Clinton, two of the highest officials of the country, Genocide is too sacred to be a subject of crass political Here are some of the words that the president’s had made similar promises to recognize the Armenian trading. Those who acknowledge the undeniable fact of the men offered this year: “Atrocities,” “brutally massacred,” Genocide when they were Senators and presidential candi - Armenian Genocide do so, not as a favor to the victims, “marched to their deaths,” “unspeakable suffering,” “per - dates. While Vice President Biden has remained eerily but to restore their own credibility and moral integrity!

Truth in the April 24 Marks Anniversary of Armenian Face of Massacre, Deportation from Ottoman Empire

Genocide All my life I have upheld this philosophy. As an ity. This is the only way to start healing the By Eduardo Eurnekian entrepreneur, I believe in building a better reality wounds and to shatter into pieces the poisoned TRUTH, from page 17 in which prosperity and human values are inti - atmosphere. New relationships will be established This year the annual commemoration cre - mately intertwined. in a gradual fashion, leading to a new and com - ated an opportunity for me to convey to the On April 24, the Armenians in particular and Do not misunderstand me. The past is of cardi - mon narrative that will replace almost 100 years of Armenian-American community of the world at large commemorate the systematic nal importance. The souls of the 1.5 million mistrust and hatred. New experiences will become Massachusetts my deep condolences and my massacre and deportation of Armenians in the Armenians who were massacred in the beginning a new reality worth living. respects for the losses and insults you have Ottoman Empire. The date is somewhat arbitrary, of the previous century, are entrenched in the Following Raoul Wallenberg’s legacy and exam - suffered. Together, we call on our govern - coinciding with an order given on April 24, 1915, hearts of all people of good will. Their voices can ple, our foundation has launched a number of ments and our ethnic, religious and cultural by the Ottoman authorities to arrest some 250 be heard loud and clear. grassroots initiatives aimed precisely at creating institutions at all levels to join us in a clear Armenian intellectuals and community leaders, Negating the evil is preposterous. But this is not bridges of understanding, dialog and mutual voice to say that we know what happened which by and large, opened the gates of hell. a matter of semantics or of legislation. A definition respect between the peoples of Turkey and and we know that our work to address its To be sure, the forced death marches and brutal will not bring them back to life and a law will not Armenia. intergenerational damage has hardly even mass murders resulted in the death of 1,500,000 punish the perpetrators. At the outset, we have created a literary contest started. Armenians. Objective historians, jurists and scholars should for university students from both countries, who For more than 200 years the House cham - This unfathomable loss has created a huge void analyze the tragic events of 1915 in a scientific will write essays around this very subject of bridge- ber in the Massachusetts State House has in the collective conscience of the Armenian peo - fashion. Finger pointing is a futile exercise. Same building between the two peoples. For obvious been a forge where democratic ideals have ple. In Hebrew, the world “chalal” is used to as the Germans of today are not to blame for the reasons, engaging the young generations is of been formed into actions that are taken in describe a “slain person,” someone who died a sins of their forefathers, we should not blame this utmost importance. the name of the people of Massachusetts. “sudden, unnatural death.” “Chalal” also means generation of Turks. At the same time, they — the This will be followed by further projects, involving We are awed by its physical beauty and by “space” or “void,” and this is exactly what all Turks — should not be afraid of recognizing the scientists, artists and professionals from both the vastness of the issues debated here and Armenians feel about their murdered ancestors. wrongs of the Ottoman Empire. This would make nations. They will sit together and exchange views. resolved more often than not for the better - As a son of the Armenian diaspora, I can say a great service not only to the Armenians, but They will talk to each other like good neighbors do. ment of our society. I am grateful that the that each and every Armenian senses a tremen - above all to the Turks themselves. This is my personal vision and I am privileged to government of the Commonwealth recog - dous “void,” which cannot be easily described by As far as Armenia and Armenians are con - have the backing of the Wallenberg Foundation. nizes and commemorates the Genocide words. I am sure this is something that the Jewish cerned, dwelling with the past without a clear So if you ask me what is the legacy of the victims together with its citizens in such a fitting people can easily relate to, after suffering so much vision of the future is pointless. Geography has cre - of the Armenian Genocide, I think the answer is location. persecution, pogroms and the Holocaust. The ated a landlocked Armenia whilst its tragic history clear: “Remember us, but don’t forget the living.” We also need to remind ourselves that a Israelis too, who face an endless war and have paid has given birth to a landlocked people, slave of its (This commentary appeared in the April 25 proclamation or pronouncement by govern - such a dear price in terms of fallen soldiers and past. issue of the Jerusalem Post . Eduardo Eurnekian ment is one small part of the equation when even civilians targeted by terrorism, would under - The virtual wall separating Turkey and Armenia is the chairman of the International Raoul it comes to remembrance and prevention. I stand this dark sensation. should be torn down and replaced by millions of Wallenberg Foundation, a global-reach NGO with am reminded of what President Harry A few months ago, when I assumed my duties bridges. These two neighbors deserve to build up offices in New York, Buenos Aires, Berlin and Truman said: “the highest office in the land as chairman of the International Raoul a shared vision of peace, co-existence and prosper - Jerusalem.) is that of citizen.” I believe the measure of a Wallenberg Foundation, I started to learn first- healthy community, state, or nation is not hand what makes this organization so special. Its just whether painful or ugly events happen, uniqueness lies in the emphasis it places on the tact person and a daytime telephone number. but how we respond. positive rather than the negative. From its very Notice to Contributors — Deadline for submission of all articles and advertising is We have an obligation of vigilance and inception, ever since my friend Baruch 12 noon on Monday of the week of publication. The welcomes articles, — Photos will be published without charge at the discretion diligence to honor those we have lost and to Tenembaum, together with the late US represen - Armenian Mirror-Spectator protect those among us and those yet to tative and Holocaust survivor, Tom Lantos, have commentaries and community news from our readers. In of the editors and art director. Photos will be returned only come. founded this non-governmental organization, they order to assure the accurate and timely publication of arti - if a self-addressed and stamped envelope is included. cles submitted, please note the following policies: — The will publish only one article about an upcom - (Andrew H. Tarsy, former regional director have focused on the saviors of victims of the M-S — All articles submitted should be typed, double (or triple) of the New England ADL, is president of the Shoah, shedding light on their magnificent feats ing organizational event. For major special events, excep - spaced and printed in a type size large enough to be clear - tions may be made only by special arrangement with the Alliance for Business Leadership. This piece and unveiling their unknown stories of heroism. ly legible (10 point or larger). Submissions that do not con - editors. is adapted from prepared remarks delivered Others deal with the atrocities of the Nazis, and form to these specifications will be assigned lowest priority. — Telephone numbers, ticket prices and other details (at April 20, at the Armenian Genocide that is very well, needless to say, but the — Articles sent by fax are acceptable, and e-mail submis - the discretion of the editors) will not be included in press Commemoration, in the Massachusetts State Wallenberg Foundation dedicates its mission to sions are encouraged. releases, but should be reserved for calendar listings and House. It appeared in the April 29 issue of the saviors, to make their stories know and to — All submissions should include the name of a con - advertise ments. the MetroWest Daily News. ) thank them for having made a difference. 20 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 28, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR