MARCH 10, 2018 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVIII, NO. 33, Issue 4528 $ 2.00 NEWS The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 INBRIEF Yerevan Scraps Armen Turkish-Armenian Sarkissian Protocols YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Armenia on March 1 for- mally annulled the 2009 protocols to normalize its relations with Turkey, citing Ankara’s continuing Elected New refusal to implement them unconditionally. President Serzh Sargsyan signed a relevant decree immediately after chairing a meeting of his Armenian National Security Council which discussed and approved his long-anticipated move. “I am asking the foreign minister [Edward President Nalbandian] to notify Turkey about our decision, after which no obligation stemming from those agreements will be legally binding for us,” he said. YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — The Armenian par- The two protocols signed in Zurich in October liament voted on Friday, March 2, to elect 2009 committed Turkey and Armenia to establish- Armen Sarkissian, a former prime minister ing diplomatic relations and opening their border. who has long resided in Britain, Armenia’s Shortly after the signing ceremony, Ankara made new and largely ceremonial president. clear that Turkey’s parliament will ratify the deal Sarkissian was nominated for the post by David Ignatius moderating the Aurora Dialogue panel, featuring Marguerite Barankitse, only if there is decisive progress towards a resolu- the outgoing President Serzh Sargsyan (no Lieutenant William Keegan and John Prendergast tion of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict acceptable relation) and the ruling Republican Party of to Azerbaijan. Armenia (HHK) in January. He was also The Armenian government has rejected precon- endorsed by the HHK’s junior coalition part- From Pain to Healing ditions. The United States, the European Union ner, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation and Russia have likewise repeatedly called for their unconditional implementation. Aurora Dialogues in Heart of September 11 Tragedy Sargsyan insisted on Thursday that signing the protocols was worth it because the international NEW YORK — In the shadows of where the Twin Towers once stood as sym- community has no doubts now that the onus is on bols of American pride and under the reflective gaze of the Statue of Liberty Turkey, not Armenia, to normalize Turkish- that represents equal opportunity for all Armenian relations. those seeking a better life, the Aurora Sargsyan also made clear that despite walking By Taleen Babayan Humanitarian Initiative hosted its Aurora away from the deal Yerevan remains committed to Special to the Mirror-Spectator Dialogues on Thursday, March 1, at the unconditionally improving its ties with Ankara. “If National September 11 Memorial and there are [relevant] proposals tomorrow or the day Museum. after, we will be ready to discuss those proposals,” A visionary initiative that launches Armenians onto the world humanitarian he said. platform, the Aurora Initiative hosted the dialogues, titled “Solidarity Beyond President Armen Sarkissian Borders: Stepping Up When Others Step Back,” to discuss and champion the tireless efforts of individuals around the globe who strive to create positive Premier Meets with change in the face of adversity, much like those who came to the rescue of (Dashnaktsutyun), and businessman Gagik Armenians during the Genocide over a century ago. Lyon Mayor Tsarukian’s alliance, which is officially in Featuring Aurora Prize finalists Marguerite Barankitse (2016) and Dr. Tom opposition to the government. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Armenian Prime Catena (2017), alongside retired Port Authority Police Department Lieutenant The opposition Yelk alliance, the fourth Minister Karen Karapetyan on March 6 received and Special Ops Lt. Bill Keegan and John Prendergast, founding director of the political group represented in the National Lyon Mayor Georges Képénékian. Enough Project, the evening’s panel, moderated by David Ignatius, associate edi- Assembly, has rejected Sarkissian’s candida- Karapetyan praised Armenian-French relations tor and columnist for the Washington Post, explored the issue of heroism. cy. Yelk, which holds nine seats in the 105- and noted one of the most important components see AURORA, page 10 member parliament, has also questioned his of the relations is cooperation at local levels. eligibility to serve as head of state. Karapetyan welcomed the cooperation between see PRESIDENT, page 2 Yerevan and Lyon, in particular, in the fields of urban development, economic cooperation and tourism. He also expressed hope that Lyon businesspeo- ple will attend the conference which will be held in New Yorker Boyajian Makes Yerevan within the framework of the International Organization of La Francophonie in October. Karapetyan expressed confidence that the His Case for Congress launch of Yerevan-Lyon direct flight from April 19 will further create closer ties. Képénékian agreed and hoped for increased didate, thirty-three-year-old Donald G. cooperation. By Aram Arkun Boyajian (“Don”), is vigorously making his case in the Democratic primary for New Mirror-Spectator Staff York State’s rural northern 21st Congressional district, which includes the CAMBRIDGE, N.Y. — Congressmen of Adirondack Mountains and Thousand INSIDE Armenian descent are a rare commodity. At Islands regions. present, there are only two, but a third can- Boyajian’s paternal grandfather, original- ly with the last name of Nersesian, came to Saratoga County in upstate New York Armenia UN from Aintab, with his name being changed to Boyajian by the American authorities out Noted Poet Diana Ambassador of a misunderstanding. He arrived during the period of Der-Hovanessian Dies Page 6 the Armenian Genocide. CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Diana Der- Boyajian’s maternal grand- Hovanessian, poet and long-time pres- parents came to Providence ident of New England Poetry Club, from Palu. INDEX died on March 1, 2018. She was the Boyajian pointed out, Arts and Living ...... 13 author of 30 books of poetry and “Since both sides of my fami- Armenia ...... 2,3 translations, several plays, and was ly are 100 percent Armenian, Community News...... 6 twice a Fulbright professor of Editorial ...... 18 I grew up going to the American Poetry. International ...... 4,5 Armenian Apostolic Church, see DER-HOVANESSIAN, page 8 Don Boyajian doing ACYOA [Armenian see BOYADJIAN, page 20 2 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Armen Sarkissian Elected

Financial Times Gives ‘Heritage Tourism’ New Armenian President Award to Yerevan PRESIDENT, from page 1 ment, he would remain the country’s third time in 2013. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — fDi Intelligence, a ser- Sarkissian was elected in secret bal- most powerful man in that case. Russian President Vladimir Putin vice from the Financial Times, has recognized lot by 90 votes to 10. He gave a short Under sweeping constitutional promptly congratulated Armen Yerevan with a special award for “Heritage Tourism.” speech in the parliament moments changes controversially enacted by Sarkissian on being elected Armenia’s “The capital of Armenia, Yerevan has been recog- after the announcement of the vote Serzh Sargsyan, the new president of new president on Friday. nized with a special award for Heritage Tourism. results. the republic will have largely ceremoni- In a congratulatory message report- Many opportunities exist in the city for investors in “I want to thank those who voted for al powers. In particular, he will appoint ed by the Kremlin, Putin expressed con- the areas of heritage tourism and leisure facilities. me and those who voted against me,” members of the government, Armenian fidence that Sarkissian will contribute One such opportunity is the restoration of Erebuni, he said. “I will invest my long experi- ambassadors abroad and the Armenian to a “further development” of Russian- a historical archaeological museum reserve. The city ence and knowledge and my entire army’s top brass. But all of those offi- Armenian relations and “deepening of has also been commended for its International energy in properly performing the cials will have to be nominated by the Eurasian integration to the benefit of Outreach, in its efforts to put itself on the map for duties of Armenia’s president and prop- prime minister first. the brotherly peoples of the two coun- foreign investors. Yerevan co-operates with more erly serving the Republic of Armenia, Sarkissian, 64, has repeatedly stated tries.” than 50 cities globally, and is a member of eight its citizens and our people.” in recent weeks that despite the lack of Sarkissian has avoided detailed pub- international organizations. Initiatives are in place “And I certainly expect your and our executive powers he intends to play a lic statements on foreign policy issues to expand international ties with sister and partner citizens’ support for and participation major role in Armenia’s political and since being nominated for president by city agreements.” in our future important victories,” economic life. He has pledged, among the outgoing President Serzh Sargsyan added the president-elect. other things, to strive to heal what he in January. But he did stress the eco- Only seven Yelk deputies cast ballots sees as serious divisions existing within nomic importance of Armenia’s mem- French Mayor, NKR on Friday, suggesting that three other the Armenian society. bership in the Russian-led Eurasian Foreign Minister Meet lawmakers affiliated with the HHK, A physicist and mathematician by Economic Union (EEU) when he Dashnaktsutyun or the Tsarukian Bloc education, Sarkissian worked at the addressed the parliament on Thursday. STEPANAKERT (Public Radio of Armenia) — On secretly broke ranks to vote against Cambridge University when he was “Armenia joined the EEU, which is March 5, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serzh Sarkisian’s preferred successor. appointed as newly independent an important and significant fact for Artsakh Masis Mayilian received the delegation from It was not clear who they are. Armenia’s first ambassador to the the simple reason that a republic of Bouc-Bel-Air, France, headed by Mayor Richard Mallié. Yelk’s parliamentary leader, Nikol United Kingdom in 1991. He served as three million people cannot be of much Mayilian welcomed the guests and expressed grati- Pashinian was quick to pounce on that prime minister for four months in 1996- interest to a large investor,” said the 64- tude to Mallié for his consistent stance on the estab- fact. He declared with sarcasm that 1997 before being again named ambas- year-old former scholar. Tariff-free lishment and development of decentralized coopera- there are “hidden Yelk members” in the sador in London. access to the markets in Russia and tion with the town of Askeran. ruling party’s ranks. His second ambassadorial stint was other EEU member states makes Mayilian noted that the cooperation between Armen Sarkissian will be sworn in on cut short in 1999 by then President Armenia far more attractive to Askaran and Bouc-Bel-Air is one of the important April 9 immediately after Serzh Robert Kocharian. Sarkissian stayed in investors, he added. examples of the policy of the Republic of Artsakh on Sargsyan completes his second and Britain and made a fortune there in the Sarkissian, who has lived in Britain the development of international relations. In this final term in office. following decade, working as an advisor for nearly three decades, at the same context, Mayilian stressed the importance of the The outgoing president is widely and middleman for Western corpora- time praised Armenia’s Comprehensive development of Francophonie in Artsakh. expected to become prime minister tions doing business in the former and Enhanced Partnership Agreement Mallié expressed readiness to expand the relations later in April. With Armenia switching Soviet Union. He was appointed as (CEPA) with the European Union between the two peoples. In this context, the sides to a parliamentary system of govern- Armenian ambassador to Britain for a signed in November. exchanged views on the practical aspects of cooperation and the implementation of projects of mutual interest. The Declaration of Friendship between Askeran and Bouc-Bel-Air was signed on November 19, 2014. Artsakh National Georgian PM Visits Armenia Assembly Marks Sumgait Anniversary YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Georgian be completed next year. Tbilisi agreed to hire a Swiss company Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili Kvirikashvili most probably also dis- to operate special customs check- STEPANAKERT (Public Radio of Armenia) — On met with Armenia’s leaders on Friday cussed in Yerevan the possible open- points to be set up on the administra- March 2, at the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign during an official visit to Yerevan ing of new transport corridors tive boundaries of South Ossetia and Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh, the statement by the which focused on economic issues, between Georgia and Russia that Abkhazia. National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh on the including energy and transport. would facilitate cargo shipments to Despite their lingering political dis- 30th anniversary of the massacre of the Armenian pop- “We discussed both our bilateral and from Armenia. Most of Russian- agreements, the two sides seem to ulation of the town of Sumgait was disseminated as an relations and regional issues,” Armenian trade is currently carried have slowly but steadily made official document in the Organization for Security and Armenian Prime Minister Karen Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Karapetyan said after talks with The statement says, in part, “On 27-29 February Kvirikashvili. 1988, atrocities against and forced deportation of “We spoke about possible areas of the Armenian population was carried out by the our cooperation,” Karapetyan told a Azerbaijani authorities in Sumgait, just 30 kilome- joint news briefing. “That includes the ters from Baku. Hundreds of Armenians, mostly Meghri free economic zone [on the women, children and elderly people, fell victim to a Armenian-Iranian border.] We spoke pre-planned massacre; thousands of Armenians were in detail and will continue to talk later forcibly deported and their property and plundered. today and agreed how we will be mov- The crime committed in Sumgait was another mani- ing forward in the energy and trans- festation of the policy of discrimination, ethnic port sectors.” cleansing and expulsion of Armenian people, which, “We can conclude we have emerged following the example of Nakhichevan, was carried from the negotiations in a fairly good out with impunity by the Azerbaijani authorities dur- mood,” he added. ing the Soviet period. It later continued in Baku, Kvirikashvili also mentioned the Gandzak (Kirovabad) and other Armenian settle- two areas of Georgian-Armenian eco- ments of Northern Artsakh.” nomic cooperation but, like It continued, “The National Assembly of the Karapetyan, did not give any details. Artsakh Republic condemns any manifestation of dis- “We should utilize our economic crimination, xenophobia and intolerance, believes potential and I think that our meeting Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan (R) and his Georgian counterpart that official Baku continues to pursue a policy of today will contribute to that,” he said Giorgi Kvirikashvili are pictured after holding talks in Yerevan, 2 March 2018. genocide, the latest evidence of which were crimes in his opening remarks at the talks. committed against the civilian population of Artsakh The Georgian premier met with in April 2016, reaffirms that the Artsakh Republic President Serzh Sarkisian later in the out through the sole Russian- progress towards the implementation will be consistent in restoring and protecting the day. Georgian border crossing at Upper of that agreement. The Georgian gov- rights of Azerbaijani Armenians who were exposed to An Armenian government state- Lars. Traffic along that mountainous ernment signed a relevant contract violence and deportation, urges parliamentary struc- ment on Karapetyan’s talks with road is frequently blocked by blizzards with a Swiss company on December tures and international human rights organizations, Kvirikashvili said the two men in winter months. 19. A senior Russian diplomat said in on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of mass stressed the importance of “develop- The two other roads connecting January that Moscow will likely follow pogroms and atrocities against the Armenian popula- ing energy cooperation in bilateral Georgia and Russia pass through the suit “in the coming months.” tion of Sumgait, to condemn the genocidal acts com- and multilateral formats.” Armenia is breakaway Georgian regions of South Armenian leaders have repeatedly mitted by Baku against the Armenians of Azerbaijan. currently building new electricity Ossetia and Abkhazia. They were expressed hope that the 2011 transmission lines that will connect it closed even before the 2008 Russian- Russian-Georgian deal will be imple- to Georgia and Iran. They are due to Georgian war. In 2011, Moscow and mented. S A T U R D A Y , M A R C H 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 ARMENIA

Dean Cain, Montel Williams Receive Medals for Producing Film on Armenian Genocide

YEREVAN (Public Radio of Armenia) — President Serzh Sargsyan on March 6 received producers of the documen- tary “Architects of Denial,” Dean Cain and Montel Williams, and their families. The President shared his impressions from the film that premiered at Moscow Cinema on March 5, emphasizing its importance in the international recognition and condem- nation of genocides, including the Armenian Genocide. Sargsyan noted that although there is much discussion on the topic in scientific circles, there is a lack of docu- mentaries, and the “Architects of Denial” fills the gap. “The parallels between today’s reality and the events of 100 years ago are very important,” Serzh Sargsyan said. He pointed to the parallels between the Armenian Genocide and today’s developments in Nagorno Karabakh. Sargsyan awarded Cain and Williams with Orders of Honor for their contribution to the international recogni- tion of the Armenian Genocide and prevention of geno- cides and crimes against humanity. The producers voiced hope that the film would help change perceptions of the issue not only in the US, but also President Serzh Sargsyan with Dean Cain and Montel Williams worldwide.

President Serzh Sargsyan with Dean Cain President Serzh Sargsyan with Montel Williams

National Gallery to Hold Archbishop Khajag Exhibition of Minas Barsamian Receives Avetisyan Paintings

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Just days Medal for Services after the major exhibition dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the birth of To Armenia renowned painter Ivan Ayvazovsky ended, the National Gallery of Armenia ECHMIADZIN — A meeting of the is planning to organize an exhibition Armenian Church’s Supreme Spiritual dedicated to acclaimed painter Minas Council convened on February 20 at Holy Avetisyan’s 90 anniversary of birth. Echmiadzin, under the presidency of National Gallery Director Arman Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Tsaturyan said on February 22 it has Catholicos of All Armenians. been a while since a large-scale Minas Among the agenda items at the four-day exhibition had been organized. He said meeting are issues relating to the Armenian they want to organize a “splendid and Patriarchate of Constantinople, effective inclusive” exhibition, comprising paint- church management, the centennial of the ings of the great artist from both the Battle of Sardarabad and Armenia’s 1918 gallery and private collections. A signif- republic, and the church’s mission to young icant part of paintings by Avetisyan are people. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian with President Serzh Sargsyan kept by private collectors and Tsaturyan The members of the Supreme Spiritual said he is negotiating with the individu- Council were received by Armenian als to include the paintings in the President Serzh Sargsyan. In the course of upcoming exhibition. “We will try to dis- the gathering, where he endorsed the idea ors of distinction on three of the attending the Eastern Diocese, was honored by the play paintings which have never been of drawing up a constitution for the archbishops. President with the “Medal for Services to displayed before,” he said. Armenian Church, Sargsyan conferred hon- Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Motherland, First Degree.” 4 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL International News Educators and Parliamentarians Paylan Launches Petition In Talks on Education To Resume Patriarch

Election Process tional system. The teachers were partic- ularly interested in exchange programs ISTANBUL (Armenpress) — Turkish-Armenian law- By Muriel Mirak-Weissbach between schools and heard from their maker Parliament Member Garo Paylan initiated a Special to the Mirror-Spectator host about such projects that the forum petition aimed at resuming the election process of has organized thus far. the Armenian Patriarch which has been suspended “I enjoyed this exciting exchange of by the Istanbul Governor’s Office last week, Diken BERLIN — Berlin played host last 2017 in Georgia and the Republic of ideas very much,” Weiler stated. “Good reports. week to a group of teachers from Armenia respectively. In Armenia, cur- teachers are extremely important for “There are 12 million Armenians around the world Armenia and Georgia, who had come to rently a textbook for social studies is good education. We are following the and all of them are from Anatolia in their origins. learn more about the education system being revised and reissued in close coop- developments in Armenia in this sector They look at the Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul, in the German Federal Republic. Their eration with the Ministry of Education. with great interest and are convinced but at the moment the status quo is in the hands of visit was arranged by the German- During their fact-finding visit, the uni- that both sides will further profit from powers with a status of hostage,” Paylan said. Armenian Forum (Deutsch-Armenische versity and school teachers from our bilateral dialogue.” Thousands have signed Paylan’s initiative, which is Forum), an initiative launched in May Georgia and Armenia hoped to gain The presence of the delegation in titled “Patriarchal elections right now.” 2015 by Albert Weiler, a Christian new insights into the education sector Berlin follows a visit by Weiler last The Istanbul Governor’s Office responded to a let- Democratic Union (CDU) member of the in Berlin. They were received in the November to Yerevan where, on the invi- ter sent months before in regards to the election of Bundestag (Parliament), along with Bundestag on March 3 by Frank tation of the Konrad Adenauer the Armenian Patriarch, stating that it doesn’t rec- more than 30 private individuals, MPs Heinrich (CDU) and forum president ognize Archbishop Karekin Bekjian as a patriarchal and representatives of busi- locum tenens. The letter, signed by Istanbul deputy ness, scientific and cultural governor Ismail Gultekin, stated that Istanbul’s institutions. As noted in a Armenian Patriarch Mesrob Mutafyan is still alive press release at the time, the and therefore there are no necessary conditions for members of the Forum’s electing a new patriarch. The Istanbul Governor’s executive body are “individu- Office said health problems are not enough to als familiar with issues relat- declare the patriarchal position as vacant, thus, ed to the southern Archbishop Aram Atesyan continues his post of the Caucasus, who pursue the patriarchal vicar. aim of promoting German- Armenian relations at vari- ous levels. The Forum Foreign Minister Meets should support Armenia in its democratic development, with UN Geneva Director strengthen economic rela- GENEVA (Armenpress) — Armenian foreign minis- tions, promote cultural and ter Edward Nalbandian, while on a working visit to scientific exchange and build Geneva, met with Michael Møller, director-general of new bridges between the the United Nations Office at Geneva. two societies.” During the meeting both officials expressed satis- In this spirit, the forum has faction over Armenia’s active engagement in the fostered political education UN’s and its structures’ activities. and places great value on Nalbandian and Møller exchanged views on the exchanges in the field of edu- Albert Weiler, a CDU member of the Parliament, with the visiting teachers 37th session agenda of the UN Human Rights cation and science. In the Council, Armenia’s initiative on preventing geno- context of a regional program cides and crimes against humanity. In this context of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, Weiler. In the course of their discus- Foundation, he participated in a round Nalbandian said Armenia, on the occasion of the called “Political Dialogue in the South sions, Weiler reported on the activities table discussion on the partnership 70th anniversary of the Convention on Prevention Caucasus,” mid- and long-term projects of the forum and explained the charac- agreement between the European and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, came with in the school sector were launched in teristic features of the German educa- Union and Armenia. an initiative to adopt a new resolution of the Human Rights Council containing concrete action proposals and the activity of the UN and its member states con- cerning the prevention of genocides. He noted that Armenia will hold the third global forum “Against Germany Will Review Turkey’s Request the Crime of the Genocide” on the International Day of Commemoration of Genocide Victims on December 9 which will be dedicated to the preven- To Extradite Kurdish Leader tion of genocides through education. The meeting also touched upon the summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie Monday Ankara said it had asked our travel advisories,” he said. which will be held in Yerevan in October 2018. By Andrea Shalal and Germany for Muslim’s extradition. Tourists, a major source of financing Leo Rinke Ankara considers the PYD and its for Turkey’s wide current account YPG armed group extensions of the out- deficit, are starting to return to the President Meets with lawed Kurdistan Workers Party, which country after attacks blamed on Islamic New Cyprus Ambassador BERLIN (Reuters) — Germany on has waged a three-decade insurgency in State and Kurdish militants and an March 6 said it would review Turkey’s Turkey’s largely Kurdish southeast. attempted coup scared them away for a YEREVAN (Public Radio of Armenia) — On March request for the extradition of a Syrian Muslim has said the allegations couple of years. 6 Ambassador of Cyprus to Armenia Leonidas S. Kurdish leader on constitutional against him are false. He has also said Summer bookings to Turkey by Markides (residence in Moscow) presented his cre- grounds as the two NATO allies contin- he will remain in European Union terri- German holidaymakers have doubled dentials to President Serzh Sargsyan. ued to try rebuild frayed ties. tory and cooperate in any further pro- from a year ago, but remain far from the Sargsyan stressed that efforts should be made to German Foreign Minister Sigmar ceedings. levels seen a few years ago, German promote the high-level Armenian-Cypriot relations Gabriel assured Turkish Foreign Cavusoglu said he would ask Gabriel market researcher GfK said last month. and build on the centuries-old ties of close friendship Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, who is visit- at their meeting to revisit travel advi- Turkey last month released German- between the two peoples. ing Berlin to attend the Berlin ITB, the sories that have angered Ankara by Turkish journalist Deniz Yucel, remov- Sargsyan hailed the ongoing active Armenian- world’s largest tourism fair, that both referring to a risk of arrests, especially ing a key irritant in ties between the Cypriot dialogue and the close contacts entertained the request to extradite Saleh Muslim for people with both German and two allies, but German officials remain on both bilateral interstate and inter-party levels, as and Turkey’s push for relaxed travel Turkish passports. deeply concerned about Turkey’s mili- well as within international organizations. guidance would be carefully examined. “I believe the German foreign min- tary operations in northern Syria. As regards the cooperation on international plat- Muslim, who formerly headed the istry needs to reevaluate its travel advi- Gabriel told reporters Berlin wanted to forms, the President referred to the 17th Summit of PYD, Syria’s main Kurdish party, spoke sory for Turkey,” he told reporters. “It see a ceasefire implemented in all of Syria. La Francophonie to be held in Yerevan on October at a demonstration in Berlin on would be beneficial for the German for- “We want to hear what our Turkish 11-12, noting that he had sent an invitation to Saturday after being detained and then eign ministry to revise this.” colleagues have to say about this. For Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiadis to take part in released in Prague. Gabriel said the foreign ministry had our part, the German government this important event. Serzh Sargsyan highlighted the “We have in fact received a verbal not advised people to avoid traveling to favors reaching a ceasefire everywhere role of inter-parliamentary diplomacy in promoting note from the Turkish foreign ministry, Turkey, but had pointed out heightened in Syria,” he said. bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with and we will send this request, as always, risks after the July 2016 attempted Cavusoglu said Turkey’s continuing the ongoing close cooperation between the respec- to the (German) justice ministry and coup and given the continuing state of military operations in Syria’s Afrin were tive legislatures. they will examine it on constitutional emergency and the arrests of German permitted under international law since Markides said, “Our relations could not have been grounds,” Gabriel told reporters at a citizens. it was fighting terrorism. better, but I agree with you, Mr. President, that we joint news conference with Cavusoglu He said he would ask Turkey when it “We are fighting in Afrin against the have to take additional steps to advance them.” before their meeting. planned to lift the state of emergency. PYD and the YPG, those are terrorist Turkey says Muslim is linked to two “Turkey will slowly want to return to a organizations, and our operations there bombings in Ankara and has vowed to normal state of affairs, and that will are in line with international law and pursue him “wherever he goes.” On automatically have consequences for the rules of the United Nations.” S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 INTERNATIONAL 38 Nobel Laureates Protest Turkey’s ‘Wrongful Conviction Of Writers And Thinkers’

LONDON (The Guardian) — On February 28, As noted in the commissioner’s report, the the Guardian newspaper published a letter evidence considered by the judge in Ahmet addressed to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Altan’s case was limited to a story dating from Erdogan, written by 38 Nobel Laureates, 2010 in Taraf newspaper (of which Ahmet Altan protesting the conviction of writers and editors had been the editor-in-chief until 2012), three of to life sentences. his op-ed columns and a TV appearance. The The letter is published below: evidence against the other defendants was equally insubstantial. All these writers had Dear President Erdogan, spent their careers opposing coups and mili- We wish to draw your attention to the dam- tarism of any sort, and yet were charged with age being done to the Republic of Turkey, to its aiding an armed terrorist organisation and stag- reputation and the dignity and wellbeing of its ing a coup. citizens, through what leading authorities on The commissioner saw the detention and Tigran Mansurian freedom of expression deem to be the unlawful prosecution of Altan brothers as part of a detention and wrongful conviction of writers broader pattern of repression in Turkey against and thinkers. those expressing dissent or criticism of the Premiere of Mansurian’s Requiem in Riga In a Memorandum on the Freedom of authorities. He considered such detentions and Expression in Turkey (2017), Nils Muiznieks, prosecutions to have violated human rights and Dedicated to Sumgait Pogrom Victims then Council of Europe commissioner for undermined the rule of law. David Kaye, the UN Human Rights, warned: special rapporteur on freedom of expression, RIGA, Latvia (Armenpress) — By the initiative of the Armenian Embassy in Latvia an Turkey sentences journalists to life in jail over concurred and dubbed the legal proceedings a event was held in Riga’s oldest church, St. John’s Church, on March 1 dedicated to the coup attempt “show trial.” 30th anniversary of the Sumgait Pogrom, the Armenian Foreign Ministry reported. “The space for democratic debate in Turkey Turkey’s own constitutional court concurred The orchestra of Latvian radio and Sinfonietta Riga performed Armenian renowned has shrunk alarmingly following increased judi- with this criticism. On 11 January this year, it composer Tigran Mansurian’s Requiem at the event. cial harassment of large strata of society, includ- ruled that Mehmet Altan and fellow journalist The Armenian Apostolic Church in Riga also provided assistance for organizing the ing journalists, members of parliament, acade- Sahin Alpay’s rights were being violated by pre- concert. mics and ordinary citizens, and government trial detention, and that they should be The program was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, lawmakers and ministers, action which has reduced pluralism and led to released. Yet the first-degree courts refused to journalists, cultural figures, the Armenian community representatives and Mansurian. self-censorship. This deterioration came about implement the higher constitutional court’s In his welcoming remarks Armenia’s Ambassador to Latvia Tigran Mkrtchyan said in a very difficult context, but neither the decision, thus placing the judicial system in Mansurian’s Requiem, which is dedicated to the memory of the Armenian Genocide vic- attempted coup, nor other terrorist threats criminal violation of the constitution. Mr tims, today is dedicated to the memory of the innocent victims of Sumgait. The faced by Turkey, can justify measures that President, you must surely be concerned that Ambassador stated that the Requiem is also a call against hatred, use of force. infringe media freedom and disavow the rule of the lower criminal court’s defiance and this During the concert works of Komitas were also performed. law to such an extent. non-legal decision was backed by the spokesper- “The authorities should urgently change son of your government. course by overhauling criminal legislation and On 16 February 2018, the Altan brothers and practice, redevelop judicial independence and Ilıcak were sentenced to aggravated life sen- reaffirm their commitment to protect free tences, precluding them from any prospect of a country. Amnesty International, PEN acquittal on appeal of Ms Ilıcak and the Altan speech.” future amnesty. International, Committee to Protect brothers, and the immediate release of others There is no clearer example of the commis- President Erdogan, we the undersigned share Journalists, Article 19, and Reporters Without wrongfully detained. Better still, it would make sioner’s concern that the detention in the following opinion of David Kaye: “The court Borders are among those who oppose the Turkey again a proud member of the free world. September 2016 of Ahmet Altan, a bestselling decision condemning journalists to aggravated recent court decision. • Full list of Nobel laureate signatories: novelist and columnist; Mehmet Altan, his life in prison for their work, without presenting During a ceremony in honor of Çetin Altan, Svetlana Alexievich, Philip W Anderson, brother, professor of economics and essayist; substantial proof of their involvement in the on 2 February 2009, you declared publicly that Aaron Ciechanover, JM Coetzee, Claude Cohen- and Nazlı Ilıcak, a prominent journalist – all as coup attempt or ensuring a fair trial, critically “Turkey is no longer the same old Turkey who Tannoudji, Elias J Corey, Gerhard Ertl, Albert part of a wave of arrests following the failed threatens journalism and with it the remnants used to sentence its great writers to prison — Fert, Edmond H Fischer, Andrew Z Fire, Andre July 2016 coup. These writers were charged of freedom of expression and media freedom in this era is gone forever.” Among the audience Geim, Sheldon Glashow, Serge Haroche, Leland with attempting to overthrow the constitution- Turkey.” were Çetin Altan’s two sons: Ahmet and H Hartwell, Oliver Hart, Richard Henderson, al order through violence or force. The prose- In April 1998, you yourself were stripped of Mehmet. Nine years later, they are sentenced to Dudley Herschbach, Avram Hershko, Roald cutors originally wanted to charge them with your position as mayor of Istanbul, banned life; isn’t that a fundamental contradiction? Hoffmann, Robert Huber, Tim Hunt, Kazuo giving “subliminal messages” to coup support- from political office, and sentenced to prison for Under these circumstances, we voice the con- Ishiguro, Elfriede Jelinek, Eric S Maskin, ers while appearing on a television panel 10 months, for reciting a poem during a public cern of many inside Turkey itself, of its allies Hartmut Michel, Herta Müller, VS Naipaul, show. The ensuing tide of public ridicule made speech in December 1997 through the same and of the multilateral organizations of which it William D Phillips, John C Polanyi, Richard J them change that accusation to using rhetoric article 312 of the penal code. This was unjust, is a member. We call for the abrogation of the Roberts, Randy W Schekman, Wole Soyinka, “evocative of a coup.” Indeed, Turkey’s official unlawful and cruel. Many human rights organi- state of emergency, a quick return to the rule of Joseph Stiglitz, Thomas C Südhof, Jack W Anatolia News Agency called the case “The zations – which defended you then – are law and for full freedom of speech and expres- Szostak, Mario Vargas Llosa, J Robin Warren, Coup Evocation Trial.” appalled at the violations now occurring in your sion. Such a move would result in the speedy Eric F Wieschaus Australian New South Wales Premier Berejiklian Visits Washington WASHINGTON — The Armenian National visit Australia, gain valuable international for- Committee of America (ANCA) welcomed on eign policy experience as interns with her February 26 for New South Wales (NSW) office, and maybe even volunteer for her re- Premier Gladys Berejiklian during her visit to election campaign.” Washington, DC as part of Australia’s largest “We were honored to host Premier ever trade delegation to the United States. Berejiklian, a great leader in both the During her official visit, Berejiklian made Australian and Armenian traditions,” said time for a leadership meeting with the ANCA ANCA Communications Director Elizabeth in their national headquarters, a community Chouldjian. “Her visit to the ANCA reminds reception at the Aramian House, home to the us, in very powerful and personal ways, that — ANCA’s youth training and career placement as Armenians, diverse and dispersed across programs, and interviews with Voice of the globe — we remain informed by our com- America and Armenian television stations. mon history, inspired by our shared values, In her remarks to a capacity crowd she said, and united in our enduring devotion to the “I am here in my capacity as the Premier of future of the Armenian nation.” New South Wales, but I’m also here with you The granddaughter of Armenian Genocide as someone who shares a common heritage of survivors, Berejiklian grew up an active mem- our Armenian culture and history. I want to ber in Australia’s vibrant Armenian communi- thank you for the work you do on the ground ty. here in Washington, DC, thank you for the Berejiklian joined the Liberal Party in 1993 warm reception you’ve given me this morning, and was first elected to represent Willoughby and please know that communities like yours in the NSW Parliament in 2003, becoming Premier Gladys Berejiklian with the ANCA leadership all around the world support your activities. NSW Transport Minister in 2011, Treasurer in We often look to DC and take great strength 2015 and ascending to the position of NSW from what you’re doing to support Armenian Premier in 2017, only the second woman to positions, she has been instrumental in repre- nition of the Armenian Genocide, supporting communities around the world.” She closed hold that post. senting Australian Armenian community con- Republic of Artsakh freedom, and expanding with an invitation to the gathered youth to Alongside her successes in each of these cerns, advocating for state and federal recog- Australia-Armenia ties. 6 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community News

Armenia’s UN Program to Raise Funds Ambassador To Combat Domestic Violence in Armenia Looks to Raise WATERTOWN — The Boston Armenian com- munity will have a chance to gather to raise funds Armenia’s Profile for the Women’s Support Center and raise aware- ness on the status of women in Armenia. The executive director of Women’s Support Center (WSC), Maro Matosian, will speak on By Taleen Babayan Friday, March 16, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Special to the Mirror-Spectator Papken Suni Agoump in Watertown. The WSC is a full-service domestic violence NEW YORK — The current Permanent center based in Yerevan, Armenia with services Representative of Armenia to the United that include a 24- Nations, Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, hour hotline, counsel- has served the Armenian government at home ing, safe houses, legal and abroad for the past three decades. Armed assistance, profession- with rich diplomatic experience, he possesses a al training, and edu- strong set of principles and vast knowledge of cation and advocacy many national and international issues. programs for women Erudite and forward thinking, Mnatsakanyan and girls. WSC’s mis- has elevated the image of Armenia in the glob- sion is to combat and al arena and advanced the interests of his coun- prevent domestic vio- try during his four-year tenure at the United lence through the Nations. protection and Maro Matosian empowerment of the victim; the rehabilita- tion of family members; advocacy regarding social and legal reform to prevent intimate part- ner and family violence; and awareness raising about domestic violence and its consequences. Maro Matosian, executive director of the Woman’s Support Center will discuss the status of women in Armenia and government policies to combat domestic violence. Matosian will also share impact stories related to the work of the Women’s Support Center (WSC). Violence Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan against women and especially domestic violence is a pervasive and alarming public health and societal problem in Armenia, with one in four In an exclusive interview, Taleen Babayan women experiencing domestic abuse. met with Mnatsakanyan at the Armenian Lucine Mardirosian Harvey Tax–deductible donations are $50. Tickets Mission in New York City to discuss recent can be reserved via email at lenna.garibian@ issues, including the complex issue of Artsakh gmail.com. and modality of its peaceful resolution, the All proceeds will go directly to the Women’s annulment of the Armenia-Turkey Protocols, as Support Center in Yerevan. This event is being well as U.S.-Armenia relations. Lucine Mardirosian Harvey organized by the Friends of the Women’s Taleen Babayan: Let’s start with the most Support Center. For more information, visit recent developments regarding Armenia-Turkey Receives Ellis Island http://www.womensupportcenter.org/. relations. Yesterday [March 1, 2018] Yerevan scrapped a peace agreement it signed with Turkey on October 10, 2009 to normalize rela- Medal of Honor tions between the two countries. This agree- Armenian Studies Program ment understandably was hammered under WASHINGTON — How can one describe Lucine Mardirosian Harvey? A At Fresno State to Hold heavy pressure by then US Secretary of State human dynamo, keenly intelligent with a generous heart, Harvey is a gourmet Hillary Clinton. From day one, it didn’t produce cook, a manager, mother to countless hundreds of children in Armenia and in 30th Annual Banquet any positive outcome. Why was the annulment Orlando, Fla., chauffer, negotiator extraordinaire, newsletter editor, truck driver, decision taken at this specific point in time? teacher, extraordinary seamstress, choir director not to mention ambassador of FRESNO — The Armenian Studies Program of Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan: The the Armenian Community, one of the founders of Soorp Garabed Armenian California State University, Fresno, will hold its question of normalization of Armenia-Turkey church of Orlando, Florida now called Soorp Haroutiun. 30th Annual Banquet on Sunday, March 18, at relations has been on Armenia’s agenda since Harvey has baked, cooked, kept the church books, created choir gowns, sewn the Fort Washington Country Club. day one. It is an important issue for the securi- garments for visiting clergy, she has taught Armenian to children and teens The banquet will feature Fresno State President ty of the entire region. With the present admin- from her home, she is a successful real estate deal maker and has made several Dr. Joseph I. Castro as one of the main speakers. istration and the current President Serzh very successful ones for St. Garabed. Castro was appointed the eighth president of Sargsyan, the process has acquired a certain She has made countless trips to city hall in preparation for property pur- Fresno State in 2013. He has been a consistent momentum from 2008, the time when the cur- chases and sales, zoning changes, building permits, etc. She has also been side- supporter of the Armenian Studies Program and rent president assumed his post. Amongst his walk supervisor during the building of the Soorp Haroutiun church which she was a leader in support of the construction of first actions he initiated this process of normal- started in l985 with the blessing of the late Jerusalem Patriarch Torkom the Armenian Genocide Monument on campus. ization of relations without preconditions. The Manoogian. She purchased and sold properties and started the church building “The 30th Annual Banquet will highlight the president’s initiative and defense of this policy in 2009, served Armenian home-cooked meals to the construction workers once growth of our Program,” said Armenian Studies manifested his commitment to the vision for a a week and made sure that all is going according to plans. Her experience in the Program Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der secure region. The Zurich Protocols were workplace overseeing 3,200 employees as a human resource director certainly Mugrdechian. “Our Program is a center for inter- signed in 2009. Since the very beginning, equipped her with the ability to manage all the tasks she has been called to do, action between the community, the students, Armenia entered into this process in good faith. or usually just volunteered to do. She has also attended to the many other needs and the university.” Armenia has remained faithful to the Zurich of the community the elderly, the ill, the dying, grieving, the visiting hierarchy More than 40 student recipients of Armenian Protocols, to its letter, spirit and agreed steps of or the church and neighborhood needs. Studies scholarships and grants for 2017-2018 implementation. We have taken them to the She also has turned her attention to Armenia since 1988, after the devastat- will be recognized at the banquet, together with Parliament for ratification, according to the ing earthquake. She collected funds for Armenia many times and forwarded students who are graduating with a Minor in agreement. But on the part of Turkey we have them to the Diocese. In 1992 she was asked by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian Armenian Studies. seen the total stepping back from the agree- to go to Armenia as a chaperon with a youth group where she witnessed the The Armenian Studies Banquet brings togeth- ments with absolutely no effort to materialize devastation and the needs of the children. In 1994 she joined the HAVAD group er Fresno State students, faculty, administrators, them. at the request of Fr. Vertanes Kalayjian, the late pastor of St. Mary Armenian and the community, to celebrate the achieve- Armenia has been patiently waiting for nine Church of Washington, DC, and met with the children in a health center in ments of the Program and its students. years. The term of the current president is com- Dilijan, and children in a summer camp in Yeghegnatzor. After spending four The reception will begin at 5 p.m. followed by ing to an end and he closes that page. I think weeks she observed the need of these children. In 1998 she became involved the banquet at 6 p.m. there is very little for me to add because the with the Nork-Marash Mangadoon. Ever since, she has collected, sewed, pur- Tickets are available at $50 per person, with a president of Armenia has been absolutely elo- chased, packed and shipped many containers through United Armenia Fund. special price of $25 for Fresno State students quent and elaborated quite extensively about see HARVEY, page 7 and Fresno State faculty. both the entire process and the reasons for the For more information, visit fresnostate.edu/ AMBASSADOR, page 9 armenianstudies. S A T U R D A Y , M A R C H 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Cruising the Caribbean with Armenian Song and Dance

On each island visitors enjoyed exotic secluded By Barbara Haroutunian beaches, where they could swim, listen and dance to Armenian music, eat good food and have fun in the tropical weather. The 21st Armenian Heritage Cruise sailed Bishop Nareg Berberian, the Primate of the from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on January 20- Diocese of the Armenian Church of Brazil, was 28, 2018 on Royal Caribbean’s premiere ship, on board. the gorgeous Freedom of the Seas. Armenians Every day started with daily Armenian from all over the world represented many coun- Church Service. For those guests who needed a tries such as: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, little help on the dance floor, Margo Kaftajian Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, taught basic Armenian dances. Her classes were Lebanon, Turkey, Venezuela and many states packed with enthusiastic dancers looking to within the United States. learn new dance moves. For eight days, Armenians were given the For some friendly competition Antranig opportunity to interact with old friends and Boudakian, John Jerikian and Hampar make new connections with fellow Armenians. Vartanian supervised the annual Tavlou and What brings over together over 1,000 Belote tournaments. Armenians from all over the world on the The Hairenik Bookstore was open each day Armenian Heritage Cruise is a common desire where guests had the opportunity to purchase to meet new and old friends, attend cultural unique Armenian books, CD’s, videos and sou- events, visit new places, and dance to Armenian venirs. music, while cruising on the “Hye Seas.” The first night there was a welcome reception The destinations this year included St. Kitts hosted by Maria Tavitian and Margo Kaftajian Harout Pamboukchian dances with fans. & Nevis, Antigua, Puerto Rico, and Labadee. highlighting the week’s activities. Harout Pamboukjian, accompanied by his band from California, captivated Ensemble from New Jersey dazzled the audi- Representative of Nagorno Karabakh to the US his audience during his ence under the artistic directorship of Sylvia presented a talk on “The Current situation in performance and truly cre- Asadourian. They performed traditional and around Artsakh, the conflict settlement ated an atmosphere of Armenian folk dances dressed in authentic cos- process, as well as the economic process in the energy, excitement, and tumes. rebuilt and investment opportunities.” dancing. The “All Star Kef For the second year in a row, Maria Tavitian, Raffi Hamparian, chairman of the Armenian Band” featuring Jim Dr. John P. Bilezikian and Dr. Raffy National Committee of America (ANCA), dis- Kzirian, Steve Vosbikian, Hovanessian organized and introduced special cussed “The Armenian Cause: Today, Tomorrow Richard Berberian, Medical Programs for Health Care Professionals and into the Future.” Antranig Kzirian and Vik where ACCME, CDE and CPE Accreditation Shahen Mirakian, the president of the Momjian performed. were received. Armenian National Committee of Canada Harout Artin Bedrossian On Wednesday evening the chefs aboard the (ANCC) discussed “International Recognition of also joined the line-up for “Freedom of the Seas” prepared a special Artsakh: The Legal Case.” a truly amazing combina- Armenian dinner. The ACAA and TravelGroup Robert Haig Setrakian discussed “An tion of entertainers. Sibil International served complimentary wine for Overview of the Armenian Banking System: A from Istanbul, Turkey per- the guests along with dinner. On the same Bright Spot in Armenia’s Economy.” formed two concerts evening was a Cocktail Party featuring Harout Bishop Berberian discussed Armenians in singing her newest songs Pamboukjian sponsored by ACAA and Brazil. Sibil performs on board. which delighted everyone. TravelGroup. Next year’s cruise will take place January 20- The Akh’Tamar Dance Robert Avetisyan, the Permanent 27, aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. Our appreciation is extended to the Armenian Cultural Association of America for making the cruise possible. For more informa- tion or to book a reservation on Armenian Heritage Cruise XXII contact TravelGroup International.

Lucine Mardirosian Harvey Receives Ellis Island Medal of Honor

HARVEY, from page 6 She and her volunteer friends travel to Armenia at their own expense, spend weeks on the premises and pass the gifts directly to the chil- dren every year. She has helped the needy, the elderly and the soldiers in border areas of Armenia or on the roads. She has donors coast to coast and her contributions to Armenia havepassed the million-dollar mark and is still going on. With the donations she has renovat- ed buildings, built a barn, provided heat for the elderly and purchased farm animals for the chil- dren to have milk, eggs and meat. Her creative skills, the loving heart, the tire- less body, the steel trap brain, the diplomacy, the generous giving of money and self over the years, has been with God’s guidance. She has looked at every opportunity as a miracle from heaven and accepted it graciously. She is always grateful to God, her supporters and to her vol- unteer friends. Her 2018 trip plans are taking shape nowadays, for another humanitarian trip. The Soorp Haroutiun church building is a testimony to her endless efforts and accom- plishments. The Ellis Island Medals of Honor are award- ed annually to distinguished American citizens who exemplify a life dedicated to community service. These are individuals who preserve and celebrate the history, traditions and values of their ancestry while exemplifying the values of the American way of life and who are dedicated to creating a better world for all.

-Diramayr Anahid Kalayjian 8 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Hundreds Gather to Celebrate 11 Outstanding Educators

BURBANK, Calif. — Hundreds gathered on Colleges and author; Zaruhy “Sara” Chitjian February 24, to celebrate and honor 11 out- Armenian Genocide Education Award standing educators for their dedication to teach- Recipients Vivian Ekchian and Interim ing the Armenian Genocide in California public Superintendent of LAUSD Taline Krikorian schools at the second annual Armenian Arsenian, president of the Glendale Teachers Genocide Education Awards Luncheon, hosted Association. by the Armenian National Committee of The Armenian Genocide Education Award America - Western Region’s Education Recipients were: Alicia Gorecki, Pasadena High Committee. The event took place in Burbank at School, PUSD; Amber McLeod, Crescenta De Luxe Banquet Hall. Included in the 250 Valley High School, GUSD; David Wright, Selma High School, SUSD; Evelyn Seubert, Cleveland Charter High School, LAUSD; Ian McFeat, La Cañada High School, LCUSD; Reiner Kolodinski, Glendale High School, GUSD; Sandra Garcia, Theodore Roosevelt Middle School, GUSD and Sean Mispagel, La Cañada High School, LCUSD. “This award will help cement my commitment to the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide, to share their stories Group photo of the 11 honorees at the Armenian Genocide Education Awards Luncheon with all my future students, friends and family,” said honoree Sandra Garcia, who deeply moved every- future, never allowing atrocities like this to the historical significance of the Armenian one and expressed her sincere feel- occur again,” stated honoree Vivian Ekchian, Genocide and the impacts that the systematic Interim Superintendent of the LAUSD, the sec- denial by the perpetrators has on its survivors, Mistress of Ceremonies, Veronica Miracle of ABC7 News ings. Evelyn Seubert, the video film teacher from Cleveland ond largest District in the US. whose descendants are sitting among them in Charter High School noted, “We In addition, to the heartfelt remarks class, including their teacher,” expressed guests were elected officials, superintendents, are striving to develop young people who will expressed by all honorees, the special treat of Krikorian Arsenian. dignitaries, educators from all across the state not be silenced, who will learn to speak against the afternoon was having Veronica Miracle, an Mouradian, a longtime advocate and tireless and especially the outstanding honorees with injustice. My students will never forget the ABC7 News Reporter as the mistress of cere- worker on behalf of Genocide Studies, moved their friends and family. Armenians.” monies. the audience by promising to continue her work The goal of this event is to celebrate educa- “Educating students about the Armenian The program consisted of several perfor- and making sure textbooks used in schools con- tors who have creatively taught the Armenian Genocide provides the opportunity to teach mances. The Areni Dance Group, performed tain the true story of the Genocide. “If the Genocide within their school communities, about courage, hope, resilience and persistence. the traditional Armenian “Tamzara.” In a spe- Armenian Genocide is not taught in history across different courses such as social science, Studying genocides provides our students a cial musical performance, Hayk Davtyan classes, it will fade away into history as if it English language arts, music, art, theater and window into the past. We must all gather the played the duduk while the kanon was played never happened. I especially want to acknowl- film. The honored educators this year were: courage to stare through this window, never by Nareh Der Hartounian. Finally, the edge Sen. Anthony Portantino, Congressman Armenian Genocide Education Legacy Award blinking at the horrors we find. Once that pain Crescenta Valley High School Theater Arts Adam Schiff, and Assemblymember Adrin Recipient Dr. Kay Mouradian, Professor of the past starts to become blinding — only Department closed the event by performing a Nazarian who have extended their political Emerita from the Los Angeles Community then can we see clearly where we must go in the special scene from their upcoming stage play efforts to bring the Armenian Genocide to the based on Dr. Kay Mouradian’s novel, My attention of California Department of Mother’s Voice. Education and textbook publishers,” said Other memorable moments included the Mouradian. recognition of Taline Krikorian Arsenian, presi- The program proved to be a moving and dent of the Glendale Teachers Association, who inspiration event, as attendees requested that fought for years to have April 24 declared a day the award program continue annually. Many of commemoration for the Glendale Unified attendees also promised to nominate educators School District. “I have a responsibility to my from their districts and to support next year’s community to educate all my students about luncheon.

GiragosianF UNERAL H OME James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 The 11 honorees featured with members of the ANCA-WR Board and Education Committee www.giragosianfuneralhome.com

Noted Poet Diana Der-Hovanessian Dies Telephone (617) 924-7400 DER-HOVANESSIAN, from page 1 Aram Bedrosian She received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, Poetry Society of America, PEN/Columbia Translation Center, National Writers Union, Armenian Writers Funeral Home, Inc. Union, Paterson Poetry Center, Prairie Schooner, American Scholar, the Armenian Ministry of Culture, and others too numerous to list. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 Her work has appeared in Poetry, AGNI, Nation, the New York Times, CDM, Paris MARION BEDROSIAN Review, etc. 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET She was a graduate of Boston University and did graduate work at Harvard. She worked PAUL BEDROSIAN as a poet in the Massachusetts schools as well as a visiting poet and guest lecturer on WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN American poetry, Armenian poetry in translation, and the literature of human rights at various universities both here and abroad. She served for over 30 years as the president of the New England Poetry Club. She worked tirelessly to educate the public about the Armenian Genocide. Her husband, James Dalley, preceded her in death. Nardolillo Funeral Home She leaves two daughters, Maro Dalley and husband James Johnson of Hanna, Wy.; Est. 1906 Sonia Dalley and husband Mark Tisserand of Cambridge; three grandchildren, Maggie Johnson and Daniel and Helen Tisserand of Cambridge; sister, Helen Pahigian of West John K. Najarian, Jr. Newton; nieces, Melanie and Shushan Pahigian, Diana Madden, Mara and Nita Der Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director Hovanesian of New York and Florida; nephew Anthony Pahigian in Washington, DC. The funeral service was at Holy Trinity Church, 147 Brattle St., Cambridge on Tuesday, March 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 6th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Armenian EyeCare Project, the 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 Armenian Missionary Association of America, or the Armenian Tree Project. www.nardolillo.com S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Armenia’s UN Ambassador Looks to Raise Armenia’s Profile

AMBASSADOR, from page 6 flict. This can pave the way for the establishment of a lasting decision and all of that is public. The records of the National peace and security. Security Council are available and also worth noting is the Jerusalem has a centuries-old Armenian presence, a rich speech of the President of Armenia in the United Nations Armenian historical and cultural heritage. The Armenian General Assembly in September 2017. Apostolic Church is one of the major guardians of the TB: Armenian communities have historically been well Christian Holy Places. Therefore, we attentively follow all regarded and respected in Arab countries as productive and developments with regard to Jerusalem. loyal citizens. This has indeed helped to forge cultural and We took note of the recently expressed positions on economic ties with a host of Arab countries, from the Gulf Jerusalem recognizing that they do not prejudice the deter- States to Lebanon, Syria, Egypt and beyond. Yet, when the mination of the final status of Jerusalem through negotia- thorny issue of Artsakh is on the agenda of an Islamic tions. Conference or Arab League Summit, we don’t see much sup- Armenia is a long-standing partner of the United States on port, if any, to Armenia’s position. What diplomatic tools many regional and international issues. Armenia has been does Armenia’s Foreign Ministry possess to rectify this? working closely with the US within different platforms and ZM: Different international organizations have different formats; Armenia is a security contributor by way of partici- methods of work, different procedures and different practices pation in peacekeeping operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo of negotiating their documents. Such methods may be more and previously Iraq. The United States has been and remains open or less open to abuse of membership. We observe a significant contributor to Armenia’s reform agenda, insti- instances of such abuse by Azerbaijan, when the substance Armenia’s primary focus has been and remains on the main- tution building and strengthening of democratic founda- and content of the negotiations on the peaceful resolution of stream negotiating process within the internationally agreed tions, the state and the civil society of Armenia have been the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is taken out of context, total- format. benefiting from the support of the United States and from ly distorted and inserted in a totally different document with- In the context of your question, and that brings me to my sharing values. An important component of our relations is in a totally different organization, which has no internation- second point, their failure to commit to the peaceful resolu- the presence of the strong Armenian Diaspora, who over cen- al mandate for the peaceful resolution of the conflict. What tion of the conflict also manifests in what we call forum turies have become part of the very fabric of the American they effectively do is present wishful thinking as a reality. shopping, attempts to create parallel platforms, or to create society, committed citizens of the United States, contribut- Two things are clear. First, the only internationally-man- the illusion of parallel platforms. Those attempts are coun- ing to the wealth of this nation. As such they are collective- dated format within which the negotiations for the peaceful terproductive, they do not contribute to progress in the ly an important bridge of forging common agenda, friend- resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is taking place peace process and they have in effect no value. ship and cooperation between our two nations, the tendons is the OSCE [Organization for security and Cooperation in Armenia maintains very close relations with the over- of such relations. Relations between the US and Armenia are Europe] Minsk Group co-chairmanship of France, Russia and whelming majority of the countries in the organization you solid and tested overtime. I am not convinced that their foun- the US. The international community has delegated this referred to, given, not least, the strong and tested close his- dations can be easily disturbed. function to the above countries within the above format and torical, cultural and civilization interactions between our TB: With President Trump’s stated goal of “America First” over years these countries have been consistently and effec- peoples. It is absurd, to say the least, to attach a religious and pulling the U.S. back from the world stage, it seems that tively engaged in the mediation of the peaceful resolution. connotation to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as Armenia’s the world today is rapidly becoming less uni-polar, with This format is fully supported by the United Nations [UN] experience of living together with the nations of the Muslim China emerging as an economic powerhouse and Russia system, the United Nations Security Council [UNSC], an world and mutually enriching each other goes far beyond the reasserting itself on the world stage with modernized armed excellent example of cooperation between the UNSC and history of Azerbaijan. Those relations and historical experi- forces. Does a multi-polar world cause more or fewer chal- regional organizations. This format is fully supported by the ence is duly manifested in shared mutual interests, coopera- lenges to Armenia? Secretary-General of the United Nations. tion and partnership with those countries in the present ZM: There are indeed many disturbing developments in Those three countries have all the necessary political times. Therefore, so far as those documents are concerned, the international agenda, which heighten the sense of secu- leverage, diplomatic skills and expertise and have generated their value and relevance should be placed in a context. This rity among nations. In the case of smaller nations, this is par- the necessary knowledge and understanding of the back- is not to say we are complacent, as we are consistently alert ticularly acute. Given the fragilities of our region, Armenia’s ground and the realities of the conflict and its historical on these matters and insist on the consistency of our part- sense of security is equally sharpened. In the present glob- background. The leadership of the mediating countries is ners to support what they support anyway, that is the inter- alized world no country can be immune from the security directly involved in the process, as is evident, for example nationally mandated negotiating format of the OSCE co- challenges in any part of the globe, whether in the Middle from numerous meetings and joint statements at the level of chairmanship and the proposals therein. That is to say, we East, East Asia or elsewhere, whether the problems are of Presidents and Foreign Ministers of France, Russia and the insist on just and lasting peace and the strictly peaceful res- political, economic, environmental or other nature. This is United States. olution of the conflict. why we believe there is ever-growing importance for inter- The three mediating countries remain fully consolidated in For Armenia and Artsakh the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict national cooperation and dialogue within different sub- their efforts, which represents an excellent example of their has been and remains a question of physical security for very regional, regional and international formats. There is of cooperation and working together. They have formulated real people and a question of freely determining their des- course an obvious necessity for a stronger role of the United workable and realistic compromise proposals for the strictly tiny, that is to say exercising their inalienable right to self- Nations. peaceful resolution of the conflict. Their proposal is not determination, which will be defended at any cost. No docu- Armenia’s foreign policy has been very consistent in iden- Armenia’s proposal, but we recognize this as a workable ment of the OIC will alter that resolve. Both Armenia and tifying and forging partnerships based on mutual interests compromise and are committed to work within those para- Artsakh will continue to pursue this existential goal by strict- and mutual respect. Armenia has been firmly rejecting any meters. Unfortunately, Azerbaijan has been consistently fail- ly peaceful means. such method in its foreign policy, which would seek benefits ing to demonstrate the necessary political will and commit- TB: At the UN General Assembly on December 21, 2017, based on disagreements or conflicting interests of its part- ment to accept the three basic principles and respective ele- Armenia, along with 127 other countries voted against the ners. Often one would find the formulation of “both/and” as ments, which constitute the basis of the solution as an inte- Trump administration’s decision to move the U.S. Embassy opposed to “either/or” in the method and practice of our gral whole. Their failure has been most evident on numerous from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, thus effectively recognizing the foreign policy. Such policy has been consistently receiving occasions, such as, for example in Kazan, Russia in 2011. Holy City as the capital of Israel (resolution A/ES-10/L.22 the respect and recognition of all our partners. One might The failure to commit to the peaceful resolution manifests in until title “Status of Jerusalem”) How does this vote serve want to admit that implementation of such policy perhaps many ways, including by way of flaring up tensions in the the foreign policy objectives of Armenia? And given the fact requires significant effort, but it is an effort absolutely worth region, outright escalation and aggression, as was the case that Armenia is the recipient of generous aid from the US making. in April 2016, consistent warmongering rhetoric, also failure and the public warning by the US President that countries TB: You have held many positions in public office with to live up to the agreements, reached in St. Petersburg and voting against this move may lose American financial aid, extensive diplomatic experience. Do you consider this posi- Vienna in 2016, as well as the Geneva agreements in October how does this weigh in on Armenia’s decision? tion to be the most challenging? 2017 at the level of presidents (not to mention the level of ZM: Armenia explained its vote in the General Assembly, ZM: I am very privileged to serve my nation in the United foreign ministers) to strengthen the cease-fire regime, to it is in the records of the meeting. Nations. Professionally, of course, it is challenging. But let establish an investigative mechanism for the cease-fire viola- The status of Jerusalem is one of the most important me put it this way. I started this job 27 years ago, serving in tions and to expand the office of the special representative issues on the international agenda and should be solved the Armenian diplomatic service. This is my job, my career of the OSCE Chairperson-In-Office (CIO) for strengthening through the negotiations within the context of the accept- and my profession and I have been treating every position of the monitoring capacity of the cease-fire regime. able solution for the parties to the Israeli-Palestinian con- and posting as important, interesting and challenging. ‘Multiple Identities and Memories of the Armenian World’ Topic of Demoyan Talk

FRESNO — Fulbright Scholar Dr. Hayk taking particular note of the instrumentaliza- challenges. Demoyan will give a lecture, “Multiple tion of history and historical markers — old and Demoyan, a visiting Fulbright Scholar at the Identities and Memories of the Armenian new symbols, heroes, historical events, etc. For Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies World,” on Monday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m., in a long time, such questions were considered as of Harvard University, is researching the identi- the University Business Center, Alice Peters taboo within the official rhetoric of both the ty transformation processes in the South Auditorium, Room 191 on the Fresno State Armenian state and certain diasporan circles. Caucasus. He has been the director of the campus. The presentation is part of the Spring In fact, in different diasporan circles there are Armenian Genocide Museum and Institute Lecture Series of the Armenian Studies contradictory views towards Armenia and its (AGMI) in Yerevan, Armenia since 2006. Program and is funded through the Leon S. status as “homeland.” At the same time, the Demoyan is head of the Scientific Council of Peters Foundation. institutionalization of Artsakh as a separate the AGMI. He is also a chief editor of the Demoyan’s presentation will analyze and dis- political entity, contrary to the initial policies of International Journal of Armenian Genocide cuss modern aspects of identity and memory unification and merging, as well as the devel- Studies. Dr. Hayk Demoyan politics in Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora, opment of parallel diasporas, create further The lecture is free and open to the public. 10 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS From Pain to Healing: Aurora Dialogues in Heart of September 11 Tragedy

AURORA, from page 1 country of Burundi during its civil war. A “Tonight we will focus on the best of what teacher, Barankitse had adopted seven children people can do,” said Ignatius. “The spirit of of different backgrounds to demonstrate the heroism and sacrifice that leads people, as hap- possibility of living together in unity. In the face pened on 9/11, to step forward, take risk and of violence she sought to rebuild on harrowing responsibility for others and make the generous sites, including “a swimming pool to wash away commitment that Aurora is honoring.” the sinners.” In her welcoming remarks, Alice Greenwald, “I want to show we don’t want revenge,” said president and CEO of the National September Barankitse, who witnessed the massacre of 11 Memorial and Museum, said that the close to 100 people in her hometown. “We evening’s panelists are individuals “who chose, stand up and we will say we refuse the hatred in time of grave danger, to step up in humane because love will always win.” ways.” Founder and president of HEART 9/11, a “Against the backdrop of grief we tell stories non-profit organization of first responders who of courage that testify to human decency,” she help rebuild and recover natural and man-made continued, recognizing the site of the 9/11 disasters, Bill Keegan was on duty at the World Museum, where guests had the opportunity to Trade Center when the initial attack on the take a special guided tour. “Stories that offer a Twin Towers occurred in 1993 and found him- powerful reminder that in times of darkness, we self at the same devastating site on September do shine the brightest.” 11, 2001. Although he and his team were high- She urged the audience to reflect on what ly trained in rescue, they quickly realized they kind of society to leave for future generations had to transition to recovery, “which was hard and to engage in acts of public service and vol- for us to accept.” unteerism while living in an interconnected His team soon repurposed itself because “the world. Lieutenant William Keegan and John Prendergast need shifted to recovery and we repurposed In his remarks, Vartan Gregorian, president ourselves to the other needs out there in the of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, elab- world.” orated on the focus of the Aurora Inititative Gregorian noted that Americans efficiently the Diaspora who are trying to give back to He spoke of the “moment of collective love” and how it is a byproduct of the Armenian responded to the Armenian Genocide and those who rescued us.” when, after months of physical and emotional Genocide of 1915-1923, when many interna- formed the National Armenian Relief “That’s a wonderful thing coming from a draining on-site 9/11 recovery efforts, the Port tional organizations came to the aid of the Committee, which later became the Near East small nation that has no resources but has the Authority officers raised the steel-beam cross Armenian victims, particularly those from the Relief Foundation, raising $100 million, the heart and the will to rescue others,” continued that became the site’s symbol. US. He remembered and thanked former US largest philanthropic effort in US history at that Gregorian. “To stand against persecution and John Prendergast, who works in crisis areas Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire Henry point in time. “That is why we are here today, to injustice, but most importantly to awaken the in Congo, Rwanda and Darfur, spoke of the pos- Morgenthau, who was the first to alert the U.S. show that sacrifice matters and that human conscious of humanity.” itive role celebrities can play in preventing and and the world that Ottoman authorities “had beings matter.” Dr. Philip Zimbardo, founder and president of shining light on genocide. He highlighted issued a death warrant against Armenians.” Speaking of the Aurora Prize, which awards the Heroic Imagination Project, spoke about Darfur, which “has no strategic interest for the “We are here to thank America and $100,000 to one recipient a year, along with $1 transforming memory into positive action. US or Europe” and the influence of George Americans for rescuing remnants of the million to the recipient’s charity of choice, A lifelong New Yorker, Zimbardo was presi- Clooney to the region. Armenian Genocide and for defending the Gregorian said it was created to “give back” and dent-elect of the American Psychological “We said never again to the Armenian Armenian Republic,” said Gregorian, co-founder “continue the cycle of giving.” Association when 9/11 occurred and provided Genocide, to the Holocaust, but here it is hap- of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and “We no longer mourn the Armenian treatment to families who lost loved ones and to pening again,” he said as he cited Darfur as the Board Member of the September 11 Memorial Genocide,” in a traditional way, said Gregorian. those who survived the tragedy. first genocide of the 21st century. and Museum. Instead, “We have a nation and major forces in “Moral courage, not bravery, is the core of He commended Clooney for taking an active heroic action,” said Zimbardo, professor emeri- interest in not only bringing attention to the tus at Stanford University. He noted that heroes matter but also trying to find a way to help on are those who are aware of risks but act on the ground, such as implementing satellite behalf of others in need or in defense of moral imagery to bring more awareness to an area causes. where journalists and human rights organiza- The Heroic Imagination Project, a non-profit tions couldn’t enter. They began building Zimbardo established in 2010, inspires youth in dossiers and turning them over for the interna- schools across the country to become everyday tional community to take a step forward in help- heroes and “teaches people to stand up, to ing resolve the crisis. speak out, and to take action in order to change “George is a great example of the evolution the world.” that can take place when someone is given a Zimbardo presented case studies and empha- chance to go from bystander to upstander,” said sized the power of one and the importance of Prendergast.

Dr. Vartan Gregorian, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative

extending compassion. His program has been In his video address, 2017 Aurora Prize implemented in several US states and across Laureate Dr. Tom Catena, physician at the the world, including in Hungary, Australia, Iran Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba and Poland, among others, where students Mountains, the only surgeon in those parts of learn to be wise and effective heroes. Sudan, said “all lives have inherent worth and During the panel discussion, Ignatius asked value” and that “all of us have the capability each guest to share his and her personal stories. and potential to do heroic things.” Aurora Prize Laureate Marguerite Viewers had the opportunity to see Catena’s Barankitse, founder of Maison Shalom, a chil- work in the mountains, where he is on call 24 dren’s center, discussed the violent conflict hours a day, 7 days a week, tending to patients between two warring tributes in her home continued on next page S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 11 COMMUNITY NEWS

from previous page who have been harmed by the violence there or in need of surgery or other medical attention. In his closing remarks, co-founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, Noubar Afeyan, explained the reasons why he and his fellow co- founders, Ruben Vardanyan and Gregorian, embarked on creating this organization, which was established on the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. “During the centennial, we asked ourselves, as survivors, what we can do to take the mem- ory of the Armenian Genocide and turn it to good,” said Afeyan, who along with Vardanyan, spent 17 years working in Armenia, encourag- ing its economic and social growth as the coun- try emerged from Soviet rule. “We went through the process of merely sur- viving to reviving and now thriving and we Aurora Humanitarian Initiative co-founder became strong enough to think about gratitude,” Noubar Afeyan continued Afeyan. “For us, Aurora is about sec- ond chances and finding meaning in a movement that allows survivors to revive and thrive.” tarian aid. Every year the Aurora Prize, (named The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative seeks to after genocide survivor Aurora Mardiganian who spent her life raising awareness) is awarded to an Aurora Humanitarian Initiative co-founder Ruben Vardanyan and Anna Afeyan empower modern-day saviors to offer life and hope to those in urgent need of basic humani- individual who has the courage and commitment to fight against injustice and violence. The Initiative hosts the Aurora Dialogues, an international platform where leading humani- tarians, academics, philanthropists and mem- bers of civil society come together to discuss some of today’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. For more information visit www.auro- raprize.com and 911memorial.org.

NFL Reporter Field Yates Guest Speaker at Trinity Men’s Union Dinner/Meeting CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — The Trinity Men’s Union of Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston will have Field Yates, who reports on the National Football League (NFL), as guest speaker at their dinner/meeting on Monday, March 12. Yates will be speaking about everything and anything NFL. All are welcome to attend. The dinner/meeting will be held in the Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall of Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St. The social hour begins at 6 p.m., and dinner at 7 p.m. Donation for the Lenten Dinner of baked shrimp scampi is $15 per person. RSVP is requested by March 10 by emailing tmuh- [email protected]. Yates writes for the insider pages of

Field Yates

ESPN.com and ESPN.Boston, and he appears on Fantasy Football Now, NFL Live and SportsCenter. He joined ESPN in 2012 and also makes regular appearances on ESPN Radio and co-hosts the Fantasy Focus podcast with Matthew Berry. Yates is a former NFL employee who spent two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and interned for four summers with the New England Patriots. During his time in Kansas City, he worked on both the scouting and coaching staff, and split his four summers in New England with coaching and scouting duties as well. Prior to joining ESPN, Yates contributed as a football writer to a number of sites and authored a blog entitled Thoughts from the Field. 12 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

SPONSOR A TEACHER IN ARMENIA AND ARTSAKH

Since its inception in 2001, TCA Sponsor A Teacher Program has raised $642,900 and reached out to 6,427 teachers and school staff in Armenia and Karabakh. These are the donors for the year 2017. Donations from Canada are in Canadian dollars.

Zaroohi Der Mugrdechian Fresno CA $25.00 TCA Detroit Chapter Bloomfield Hills MI $2,000.00 George & Hasmig Mandossian Burbank CA $200.00 Robert Ajemian Fund/Mr. Detroit, MI $2,500.00 Hagop & Sylvia Nazarian Ranc Palos Verdes CA $200.00 Peter Sarkesian Berjouhie Long Fresno CA $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Herman Hintiryan Oak Park MI $500.00 Dr. Berjouhi Koukeyan Duarte CA $200.00 Suzanne Hagopian West Bloomfield MI $200.00 Zaven P. Berberian LaCanada Flt CA $200.00 Michael Avsharian Ann Arbor MI $25.00 Alice S. Mazmanian Pasadena CA $160.00 Evereg Fenesse Educational Society Novi MI $800.00 Jack & Eva Kalfayan San Mateo CA $100.00 Knights of Vartan Farmington Hills MI $600.00 Krekor Tchakian Canoga Park CA $200.00 Arsen Terjimanian Polytherm Varoujan & Elizabeth Gostanian Woodland Hills CA $50.00 Testing & Cons. Clawson MI $200.00 Sona Minakian La Mirada CA $100.00 Detroit Armenian Women’s Club Howell MI $500.00 Vahe & Roozan Varteressian/ Sarah Dergazarian Midland MI $400.00 Avanessian Pacific Palisades CA $200.00 Kathryn Ossian Pleasant Rdg. MI $200.00 Luther & Arda Derian Los Angeles CA $200.00 James Derian Oxford MI $150.00 Mr. & Mrs. Leon Yengoyan San Jose CA $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Howard Atesian Bloomfield Hills MI $500.00 Alexander & Deborah Grigorian Ranc Palos Verdes CA $100.00 Margaret Aranosian Gattis Concord NH $500.00 Rosemond & Arthur Muncheryan San Francisco CA $200.00 Nazik & Oski Sesetyan Paramus NJ $200.00 Dennis & Mary Papazian San Jose CA $100.00 Denis & Anne Orlando Freehold NJ $200.00 Alec & Zovi Ekmekji Los Angeles CA $100.00 Martha & Richard Saraydarian Englewood Cliffs NJ $160.00 Kevork & Silva Keushkerian Pasadena CA $400.00 Jane Gahanian Hastings Wayne NJ $50.00 Ronald Nazeley Los Angeles CA $400.00 Mary I. Gueyikian Marlboro NJ $200.00 Sunday School ACHR Newington CT $200.00 Nurhan & Victoria Becidyan Paramus NJ $200.00 Alice A. Norsigian Wethersfield CT $200.00 Hagop Vartivarian Englewood NJ $160.00 Alice A. Norsigian Wethersfield CT $200.00 Mark & Christine Badach Wyckoff NJ $200.00 Mary Abrahamian New Britain CT $200.00 Raffi & Sossy Shekookian Tinton Falls NJ $200.00 Mathew & Lisa Natcharian Avon CT $200.00 Raffi Allaverdi Hackensack NJ $200.00 Margarethe R. Mashikian Pomfret Center CT $500.00 Dr. J.A. Gulekjian Englewood Cliffs NJ $200.00 Michael Ohanian Pompano Beach FL $1,000.00 Dr. Lucy B. Borke-Adams Medford NJ $400.00 Berj A. Gueyikian Lincolnwood IL $200.00 Armen & BrendaShahinian Franklin Lakes NJ $200.00 Zabelle N. Vartanian Belleville IL $50.00 Lucy V.Soovajian Union City NJ $250.00 Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Giragosian Homer Glen IL $25.00 Ara & Rose Akian Belleville NJ $100.00 Mariam Tatosian Evanston IL $200.00 Hagop Isnar Haworth NJ $100.00 Anna Marie Norehad Glenview IL $200.00 Sonia Hachigian Schenectady NY $100.00 Heratch O. Doumanian Chicago IL $400.00 Robert Mihran Mooradian Troy NY $320.00 Dennis A. Corrigan Arlington Hts. IL $400.00 Nayda Voskerijian New Hyde Park NY $100.00 Karen Demirdjian Skokie IL $400.00 Robert Mihran Mooradian Troy NY $400.00 Alice Madanyan Palos Heights IL $175.00 Joyce Haroutunian Sea Cliff NY $100.00 Vahe Derian Bloomingdale IL $200.00 Alice Emirzayan-Costes Staten Island NY $600.00 Ara & Sonya Hacet Prospect KY $1,000.00 Fr. Karekin Kasparian White Plains NY $200.00 Mel & Judy Menasian Methuen MA $150.00 J. Mardirossian White Plains NY $100.00 Sonia Iskandarian Watertown MA $200.00 Z. Ken Derian Huntington Station NY $150.00 Anoush Y. Balian West Newton MA $200.00 Michael & Michelle Norehad Bay Village OH $1,000.00 Dr. & Mrs. Charles Garabedian Shrewsbury MA $300.00 Alice Karabian Philadelphia PA $25.00 Varoujan & Elizabeth Ganjian Belmont MA $200.00 Hrant & Arlene Jilozian Broomall PA $200.00 David Boyajian Belmont MA $20.00 Mayis & Jemiq Seapan Landenberg PA $200.00 Jack & Eva Medzorian Winchester MA $100.00 Jacob & Ruth Harpootian East Providence RI $200.00 Vahe & Anni Bedian Ashburnham MA $200.00 Robert Ouloosian & Family Cranston RI $100.00 James Kalustian Arlington MA $200.00 Zohrab & Arpine Tcholakian Houston TX $200.00 Lucie A. Aghdamlian Arlington MA $200.00 Sirop & Maro Bedrosian Houston TX $400.00 Ozcan Jewelers Inc. Boston MA $200.00 Karekin Jelalian Vienna VA $320.00 Mary I. Omartian Springfield MA $100.00 Rita Balian Arlington VA $250.00 Mariam Kochakian Methuen MA $200.00 Carolyn F. & Paul A. Neeson Millis MA $50.00 Sponsor A Teacher donors List from Canada Zevart Hollisian Watertown MA $25.00 Mr. Harry Yesayan (Toronto) $1000 Zareh & Hasmig Maserejian Belmont MA $100.00 Mr. & Mrs. Souren & Lilian Agemian (Toronto) $480 John Mirak Foundation Arlington MA $400.00 Mr. Antranig Tatossian (Montreal) $320 Margrit Atinizian Winchester MA $600.00 Mr. & Mrs. Armen and Ani Parunak (Montreal) $320 Alice E. Aznoian Methuen MA $300.00 Mr. & Mrs. Agop & Takouhi Sirinyan (Montreal) $200 Armen & Nora Adourian Burlington MA $150.00 Mrs. Diana Hadjetian (Montreal) $200 Gerald F. White Lawrence MA $25.00 Mr. & Mrs. Hratch & Annie Torikian (Montreal) $160 Harry & Hripsime Parsekian Watertown MA $400.00 Mr. & Mrs. Avedis and Sima Bahlawanian (Montreal) $160 Dr. & Mrs. Nishan Goudsouzian Winchester MA $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Avedis and Arsho Djihanian (Montreal) $160 Jean Shapazian Waltham MA $100.00 Mrs. Sonia Boulos (Montreal) $160 Anonymous Waltham MA $60.00 Mr. Hovhannes Boyadjian (Montreal) $160 Ted Touloukian S. Boston MA $200.00 Mrs. Aida Baghjajian (Montreal) $160 Mary Omartian Springfield MA $160.00 Mrs. Luisa Fazliyan (Montreal) $160 Sonia Iskandarian Watertown MA $200.00 Mrs. Nina Arabian (Montreal) $160 Peter & Charleen Onanian Weston MA $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Kevork Tutundjian (Toronto) $160 Michael & Kathleen Casey Andover MA $10.00 Mr. & Mrs. Vahran and Rakel Salibian (Toronto) $160 Herman & LauraPurutyan Concord MA $100.00 Dr. Isabelle Basmadjian (Toronto) $160 Emma Sogoian Bloomfild Hts. MI $200.00 Mrs. Suzanne Benlian (Toronto) $160 Diana Lee Khachaturian Farmington Hills MI $400.00 Miss Taline Baltayan (Toronto) $160 Armenian Renaissance Association Walled Lake MI $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Gary & Alice Armen (Vancouver) $160 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 Arts & Living

Forced into Genocide BOOKS Book Presentation by Adrienne G. Alexanian Rev. Dr. Abel On March 18 Manoukian CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Adrienne G. Alexanian, Publishes New editor of Forced into Genocide: Memoirs of an Armenian Soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Book on Swiss Army, will present her father’s memoirs on Sunday, March 18, at Holy Trinity Armenian Humanitarianism Church of Greater Boston in the Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, 145 Brattle St. The During Genocide book presentation will begin at 12:30 p.m., and be followed by a book signing and reception. Books GENEVA — A new book by Rev. Dr. will be available for purchase. Abel Manoukian, titled Bearing Forced into Genocide is the riveting memoir Witness to Humanity: Switzerland’s of Yervant Edward Alexanian, an eyewitness to Humanitarian Contribution during the the massacre and dislocation of his family and Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman countrymen in Ottoman Turkey during World Empire 1894−1923, pays tribute to the War I. Incredibly, Alexanian experienced the Swiss people’s Armenian Genocide as a conscript in the unprecedent- Turkish army. His memoir is a one-of-a-kind ed solidarity insider’s account, documenting the Genocide’s with the astonishing cruelty — but also its rare, unex- Armenians in pected acts of humanity. No comparable their most try- account exists in the literature of the Armenian ing times. Genocide. This edition, translated from After provid- Alexanian’s hand-written chronicle, includes ing a compre- rare documents and photos that the author pre- h e n s i v e served, a scholarly introduction, translator’s overview of Armenian his- Rev. Dr. Abel tory and the Manoukian events leading to the mas- sacres and genocide perpetrated Andrey Allakhverdov’s painting of Gustav Klimt and his “Portrait of Adele Bloch against the Armenians, the author Bauer” explains how it came to be that the Swiss people took a stand alongside their Armenian brothers and sisters in the Christian faith. The period under Paying Tribute to consideration ranges from the time of the first American Protestant mission- aries in the orient to the assumption and continuation of their work by Artists’ Pain Swiss missionaries. A stark contrast emerges between the merciless policy of annihilation WATERTOWN — Painter Andrey implemented by the Ottoman Empire Allakhverdov not only appreciates the and the shining examples of selfless- By Alin K. Gregorian ness provided by aid workers from Staff talents and styles of various artists, but Mirror-Spectator he wants to pay homage to those artists the best way he knows: through painting. The hallmark style of Allakhverdov is including a likeness of artists in an imme- diately identifiable work of theirs. “Painters’ lives are very tragic. Many died at a young age,” he said in a recent note, and other supportive matter. interview. Born in Sivas, Turkey, Yervant Alexanian sur- “My idea was to take the work of the artistes to include the artist,” he said vived the Hamidian massacres as an infant to later through a translator. fight for survival as a conscript in the Ottoman It was ironic, he said, that there are artists, such as Arshile Gorky who have lived Turkish Army during the Armenian Genocide of longer though their art than in actual years. 1915. He fled to America in 1920, where he spent Allakhverdov was born in Baku in 1947 to a family originally from Shushi, his life advocating justice for his people. Karabakh. Eventually, he moved to Moscow. Fr. Vasken A. Kouzouian, pastor of Holy He received his bachelor’s degree in art from the Moscow State Art University. Trinity Armenian Church, states: “Our grand- He has been a member of Moscow Art Union since 1979 and a member of Art parents’ first-hand memories filled family gath- Union of Soviet Union since erings with messages we were to embrace and 1988. He was an apprentice and pass on to the generations of tomorrow. They later a good friend of noted shared from the pain in their hearts about the Soviet Armenian painter Dmitri darkest days surrounding the Armenian families Nalbandyan. He has had numer- and villages of 1915. The Armenian Genocide ous exhibitions both in Russia survivors are few and far between now. And so, and overseas. Abel Manoukian, Bearing Witness to we become their voice. And we retell their sto- For the past four years, he has Humanity: Switzerland’s ries, our greater family stories. We have an divided his time between Boston Humanitarian Contribution during opportunity to turn back time on March 18, and and Moscow, with the majority of the Armenian Genocide in the once again hear the words of a survivor. Yervant his time spent in the US. He does, Ottoman Empire 1894−1923, Alexanian quietly kept his memoirs as an however, have a studio in central Münster: Aschendorff Verlag, 2018, Armenian soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Army. Moscow. 606 pp. His handwritten diaries and notes tell his story His family is similarly in both in his voice. His daughter, Adrienne Alexanian, locations. He has three children; brings those notes and her father’s voice back two are in the US and one in to us in a very real way. I encourage everyone to Moscow. Switzerland, who as doctors, nurses join us on Sunday, March 18, at 12:30 p.m., to Allakhverdov said that one of and educators, gave the Armenian peo- hear a voice from the generation of our grand- his major goals is to bring togeth- ple formidable assistance in the most parents. The more we hear their voice, the more er artists from the US, Russia adverse of circumstances. Their efforts we will be able to pass on their story, our and Armenia, not only in person were supported by an unabating flow greater family story.” Arshile Gorky and his famous painting of but through introducing them of monetary donations from many peo- Adrienne G. Alexanian, Yervant’s daughter, him as a child with his mother through his paintings. ple in their home country, including spent years preparing her father’s manuscript see ARTISTS, page 14 see SWISS, page 14 for publication. She is an educator and a 2010 recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. 14 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING AIWA Celebrates Ellis Island Medal Recipient Joan Agajanian Quinn with Gala

LOS ANGELES — It was a sellout, sold out, smashing success award winning musician Guitarist, played and sang tender coun- and still have people talking about the banquet honoring Joan try songs on his guitar that touchingly moved the audience. Agajanian Quinn, recipient of the 2017 Ellis Island Medal of The operatic arias were sung by Artur, famously known, as Mr. Honor. Hosted by the Los Angeles Affiliate of the Armenian X, in a homage to our honoree and her love of the opera. Artur International Women’s Association (AIWA) on January 27, concluded his singing with an Armenian aria, cheerfully joined 2018 at the famous Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills, over 250 by members of the audience. guests filled the Rooftop Ballroom to honor Joan Agajanian Presentations were then made in recognition of Joan Quinn in recognition of her enduring and continuing contribu- Agajanian Quinn’s prominent service to the Armenian tions to both the Armenian and American communities. International Women’s Association, as well as a journalist, cura- The Ellis Island Honors Society sponsors the Ellis Island tor, arts advocate, and her leadership in the support of many Medal of Honor, established in 1986, and is presented annually global activities to benefit diverse communities. The first pre- to American citizens who have distinguished themselves within sentation was made by Ani L. Kharajian, International AIWA, their own ethnic groups, while exemplifying the values of the President, who journeyed from AIWA headquarters in Boston, American way of life. Massachusetts, to express her congratulations “for this well- Nicole Nishanian, president of AIWA-LA, welcomed the deserved accolade to a selfless contributor and a true nation guests and thanked them for participating in this well-deserved builder and to participate in honoring her for the difference she tribute. Nishanian expressed her deep appreciation for Joan’s has made in Armenian women’s lives.” continued service on the Executive Board of AIWA-LA and, par- Presentations and acknowledgements by government offi- ticularly, for her dedicated service as their NGO representative Joan Agajanian Quinn and Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian cials were recognized by Senator Anthony Portantino and his for the United Nations. aide Taline Manigoglu. They presented proclamations and Before the official program began, guests were surprised by Certificates of Appreciation from the California Legislature, the twin daughters of Joan, Amanda Quinn Olivar and Jennifer guished philanthropic career. In addition to the art exhibits she including Senator Kevin De Leon and Assemblyman Adrin Quinn Gowey, and her two granddaughters, Paloma and curated at the church. Nazarian, Sheila Kuehl, Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Paul Georgia, singing You are My Sunshine, My Only Sunshine, Fehring referred to Joan’s reputation as a visionary who, for Krekorian, Los Angeles City Council member, and Lily Bosse, reflecting their joy and happiness in honoring their mother and more than 50 years has inspired more than 200 artists to print Mayor, Beverly Hills City Council. In his remarks, Senator grandmother. Guests joined in singing this rousing song. or sculpt her image. She introduced the following Portantino commended Joan for her leadership, and her pas- The program was skillfully lead by Andrea Fehring, Mistress artists/celebrities, including Edith Bauman, Billy Al Bengston, sionate commitment to the arts and her consistent support of of Ceremonies, first calling upon Rev. Dr. Scott Colglazier, First Cheryl Bookout, Michael Chearney, Laddie John Dill, Stephen the creative talents of others. Congregational Church of Los Angeles, for the Invocation. In Douglas, Chris Hartunian, George Herms, Joyce Kierjczyk, Lisa The program concluded with remarks by honoree Joan his remarks, Rev. Colglazier, movingly recalled his years of Kitchen, Carla Khachatourian, Carol Tikijian, Paul Ruscha, Agajanian Quinn, who stated “Thank you to AIWA, Chair Lily friendship with Joan and her family and his pride in her distin- Sharon Weiner, Gary Wood and star architect Frank Gehry. Balian and her able committee, who made this afternoon pos- Fehring then invited Dame Zandra Rhodes, sible, and to my family and to my friends from near and far. I internationally known innovative fashion dedicate this afternoon to my husband Jack who was always designer and artist from the United Kingdom the wind beneath my wings and continues to be my guiding and close personal friend of Joan’s. In honor of angel. My mother Faye Agajanian used to bake a seven-layer Joan and to celebrate this occasion, she created cake, a delicious cake, you, each of you in this room make up a special limited edition of prints for each the layers of that cake, all of you have been instrumental in guest; the prints are titled, signed, dated and helping me in my efforts to give back to a community that I numbered. Dame Rhodes regaled the audience love.” with tales of their long friendship, travels and The benediction was given by Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, adventures together. former Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Remarks were also made by Larry Balakian, Church of North America, who spoke of his longtime relation- focusing on Joan’s steadfast commitment to the ship with Joan and her husband Jack Quinn and noted his California Arts Council and the art loans that unwavering support and pride in all her endeavors. As a couple, the Quinns were always willing to share; and they strongly believed in supporting the need to acknowledge Antranik Kasbarian of the Women’s Support victims of domestic violence in Armenia through the Women’s Center (WSC) in Yerevan, Armenia, who spoke Support Center in Armenia. He spoke lovingly of Joan’s achieve- of Joan’s involvement with the Tufenkian ments and outstanding contributions which serve as an inspi- Foundation and US Ambassador Marie ration to all. He stated “I knew Jack, a noble man who was mar- Yovanovitch in establishing the WSC as a safe ried to this wonderful woman, they worked together for the bet- Group picture of Executive Committee of LA Armenian International Women’s haven for abused women and her dedication terment of society.” Association, (Joan is in the center) presenting flowers to Mistress of Ceremonies and long-term support of this project. For further information regarding the Los Angeles Affiliate of Andrea Fehring and Lily Balian, Chair of the event. The entertainment extended from country the Armenian International Women’s Association please con- music to operatic arias. Dennis Agajanian, tact www.aiwaLA.org.

Rev. Dr. Abel Manoukian Publishes New Book on Swiss Paying Tribute to Artists’ Pain Humanitarianism During Genocide SWISS, from page 13 those who were less wealthy. This surge in peo- ple’s willingness to help was made possible and sustained by a massive solidarity movement in Swiss society. Two examples, among many, should be men- tioned — Sister Beatrice Rohner (1876–1947), from Basel, who suffered a mental breakdown following all the horror she experienced as a teacher and director of an orphanage, and Jakob Künzler (1871–1949), from Walzenhausen, a cabinet-maker by profession, who — driven by profound faith — worked tire- A village scene lessly, first as a medical orderly, then subse- quently as an ingenious general practitioner ARTISTS, from page 13 and highly inventive organizer, from 1899-1922 “I want to help bring together the Armenian, Russian in Turkey and thereafter in Lebanon. Having and American genres. Many don’t know each other’s art,” been acquainted with Künzler, while Swiss vice- he said. consul in Jaffa, Carl Lutz found him to be a Allakhverdov was born in Baku to a family originally great inspiration for his own heroic efforts sav- from Shushi, Karabakh. Eventually, he moved to Moscow. ing Jews in Budapest in 1944. For Allakhverdov, style takes a back seat to his goals of The author of this book endows his Swiss bringing together art and artists. Still, he does prefer real- “witnesses for humanity” with a lively voice, ism, but uses other genres too. without any loss of scholarliness, as is demon- “I have an internal calling and movement that make me strated by copious footnotes and references. His work,” he said. extremely wide-ranging research integrates pre- His works are currently on sale through his website. To viously unseen material from Swiss archives for see more of his paitings or to contact him, visit the first time and forms the basis of this com- A portrait by Andrey Allakhverdov www.allakhverdov.com prehensive work, which constitutes a significant enrichment of the subject. S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING A Look at Armenian-American Recipe History from the Beginning

MISSION HILLS, Calif. — The Ararat-Eskijian and a brief play. The conference will continue Corner Museum (AEM), the National Association for on Saturday, March 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), p.m., with four scheduled sessions. Project SAVE Armenian Photograph Archives, The conference will take place at the George by Christine Vartanian Datian the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute Deukmejian Community Center on the (AGMI) in Yerevan, Armenia, and the California grounds of the Ararat Home of Los Angeles, State University Northridge Cold Cucumber Beet Soup with Mint Armenian Studies Program, announce an upcoming conference INGREDIENTS dedicated to the 400th anniversary 3 cups cucumbers, peeled, seeded, cut into chunks of the arrival of “Martin the 1 cup cooked fresh beets, chopped Armenian,” to America. This confer- 1/2 medium onion, chopped ence will focus on the legacy of the 4 cups plain low-fat white yogurt or sour cream Armenian-American community and 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth its significant accomplishments from 2 cloves garlic, minced very humble beginnings. 3 tablespoons chopped walnuts This landmark anniversary has 2 tablespoons olive oil inspired numerous scholars and 2 tablespoons lemon juice or wine vinegar cultural figures from diverse back- 1/2 teaspoon sea or kosher salt (to taste) grounds to share their studies and Black pepper, Aleppo pepper, celery salt (to taste) perspectives on the rich Armenian- Chopped mint, dill, or chives as garnish American heritage. In conjunction Thin sliced cucumber or eggs as garnish with the conference, a special exhi- bition prepared for the occasion PREPARATION: With a food processor or electric blender, swirl the cucumbers, beets, onions, will be on display featuring and garlic for 60 seconds, do not puree. Add broth, yogurt or sour cream, and wal- Armenian-American heirlooms and nuts, and swirl 20-30 seconds longer until smooth. Add more broth at this point if historical artifacts from the Ararat- soup is too thick. Eskijian Museum and the private collection 15105 Mission Hills Road, Mission Hills, Calif., Transfer to a glass bowl, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, Aleppo of Dr. Hayk Demoyan, director of the AGMI. 91345. pepper, and celery salt, cover, and chill for 4 hours or overnight. The conference begins Friday, March 16, 6 to The conference is open to the public with Garnish chilled soup with thin sliced cucumber, eggs, or sour cream; top with 10 p.m., with a reception, the opening of the free admission. mint, dill, or chives, and serve. May be made 2 or 3 days in advance of serving; special exhibition, and the launching of For additional information, program and store in a covered container in the refrigerator. Demoyans’s new publication, Armenian Legacy time of the events, or live streaming, visit Serves 4. in America: A 400-Year Heritage, along with a Ararat-eskijian-museum.com or e-mail eski- musical program, a short documentary film on [email protected]. *Christine's recipes have been published in the Fresno Bee newspaper, Sunset Armenian-American achievements in politics, magazine, Cooking Light magazine, and at http://www.thearmeniankitchen.com/ Hai Guin Prepares for Fashion Show on May 19

BELMONT, Mass. — The Hai Guin donations; Pamela Gechijian, publicity; Joyce Scholarship Association, under the direction of Jones, modeling agency; Joyce Guleserian, Ida Gladys Partamian, president, is preparing for Kolligian, and Mary Kupjian, centerpieces; the May 19 annual luncheon and fashion show. Sandra Aghababian, program booklet; and This year’s fashions will be presented by Soft Karen Martin and Linda Abkarian, raffles. Surroundings of Chestnut Hill, specializing in Proceeds from this event fund scholarships designer clothing for women, petites and tall. for students who are Massachusetts residents, Busy women of all ages are Soft are of Armenian descent and attend a college or St. James Armenian Church Surroundings’ customers, especially those who university in the US. Candidates must have need to be reminded to put themselves at the top completed one year at the school for which the of their “To Do List.” Soft Surroundings is dedi- scholarship is requested. Scholarships awarded cated to making their customers look and feel are based on merit and need. their best. They design the majority of their qual- Applications are available upon request by ity fashion in St. Louis. Their goal is to ensure writing to: Hai Guin Scholarship Association, that their customers maintain their unique sense 23 Bradley Road, Arlington, MA 02474, Attn: of style without sacrificing comfort. Scholarship Chairman. All application require- Margaret Atamian and Carol Yeghiayan, lun- ments are due by October 25, 2018. cheon and fashion show event co-chairs, are The Hai Guin Scholarship Association annu- working with their committee which includes: al luncheon and fashion show will be held at 8:00PM Lisa Dorian, Becky Hintlian, and Marilyn Montvale Plaza, Stoneham, at 11:30 a.m. Call Takvorian, ticket reservations; Karen Martin, members of the committee for tickets. LIVE JAZZ MUSIC THE JOHN BABOIAN QUARTET WITH VOCALIST STEVE MARVIN LIVE ARMENIAN MUSIC +256'Â2(895(6_0(==( '(66(5767$7,216_&$6+%$5BOB SATURDAY,RAPHALIAN, LEON JANIKIAN, APRIL JOE SARKISIAN, 14, AND2018 KEN KALAJIAN

GREAT1920sÀ ATTIRE ENCOURAGED!GATSBY $100 ADVANCED RESERVATIONS ONLY! TICKETS AVAILABLE IN THE CHURCH OFFICE OR AT WWW.STJAMESWATERTOWN.ORG FOR MORE INFO CONTACT:GALA 617.923.8860 OR [email protected]

Seated left to right are: Carol Yeghiayan and Margaret Atamian, luncheon and fashion show event co-chairs; Gladys Partamian, president; Standing left to right are: Pamela Gechijian, Joyce Guleserian, Mary Kupjian, Linda Abkarian, and Marilyn Takvorian. Missing from photo are: Lisa Dorian, Becky Hintlian, Karen Martin, Joyce Jones, Ida Kolligian, and Sandra Aghababian. 16 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

fundraising event is sponsored by the Friends of the WSC. Merguerian and Nubar Afeyan. Sunday, 3 p.m. MASSACHUSETTSCALIFORNIA Donations to the WSC will be made via the Tufenkian Admission free and open to the public. Book sale and Foundation and are tax-deductible. Learn more at reception to follow. Organized by Armenian Cultural MARCH 16- 17 — Conference, “Celebration of 400 www.womensupportcenter.org. Foundation, co-sponsored by the Amaras Art Alliance, Years of Armenian-American Heritage, 1618-2018,” MARCH 18 — Book Presentation by Adrienne G. and National Association for Armenian Studies and at the Ararat-Eskijian Museum, Mission Hills. Co-spon- Alexanian, Forced into Genocide, Memoirs of an Research, 441 Mystic Street (Route 3), Arlington. Tel. sored by the Ararat-Eskijian Museum (AEM), the National Armenian Soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Army, (781)-646-3090 [email protected] Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), Sunday, 12:30 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural MAY 11 — Welcome His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Project SAVE Armenian Photograph Archives, the Hall, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, to Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI) in 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. This book is a riveting mem- Celebrate with Rev. Father Mampre A. Kouzouian on the Yerevan, Armenia, and the California State University oir of Yervant Edward Alexanian, an eye-witness to the 60th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood. Northridge Armenian Studies Program. massacre and dislocation of his family and countrymen in Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 Ottoman Turkey during WW I, while he served as a con- Brattle Street, Cambridge. Hrashapar Service in the MASSACHUSETTSFLORIDA script in the Turkish Army. Reception and Book Signing to Sanctuary followed by a Celebration in the Charles and follow Presentation. All are welcome! Log onto Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall. Details forthcoming. JANUARY 20-27, 2019 — Armenian Heritage Cruise http://www.htaac.org/calendar/event/527/ for further JUNE 6 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage Park on XXII Western Carribean Cruise aboard Royal information. The Greenway, Boston, Wednesday, 5-6:30 p.m. Meet & Carribean’s Allure of the Seas. Traveling to MARCH 22 — 7:30 p.m.: Siobhan Nash-Marshall, “The Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea Imports Nassau/Cozumel/Roatan/Costa Maya. Cabin rates start- Sins of the Fathers: Turkish Denialism and the and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the Labyrinth. For first-time ing from $949 per person based on double occupancy, Armenian Genocide,” Thursday, at the NAASR walkers introduction to walking a labyrinth at 5:30 p.m. including port charges and ACAA registration fee. Center, 395 Concord Ave., Belmont. The program is open RSVP appreciated. [email protected] Govermment taxes of $137.45 are additional. Armenian to the public. Contact: [email protected] or 617-489-1610. JUNE 28 — Under a Strawberry Moon, Armenian entertainment, cultural presentations, festival day, tavlou Heritage Park on The Greenway, Boston, Thursday, and belote tournaments and much more. Call Travel MARCH 23 — Sayat Nova Dance Company of Boston 8:30– 9:30 p.m. Meet & Greet! Moonlit Labyrinth Walk. Group International 561-447-0750 or 866-447-0750 ext. (SNDC) is honored to share the stage with world Enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries, hosted by Vicki 108. Contact person Jaine. renowned and beloved singer from Armenia Lee’s and Ice Teas, hosted by MEM Tea Imports. RSVP Sirusho, appearing live for the first time in Boston, at the appreciated. [email protected] ILLINOIS prestigious Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass. Ave., JULY 18 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage Park Boston. Start time: 8 pm. Tickets may be purchased on The Greenway, Boston. Wednesday, 5- 6:30 p.m. APRIL 15 — Book presentation by Adrienne Alexanian online at www.berklee.edu/events/Sirusho or by calling Meet & Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea (editor) on her father’s memoir Forced into 617-747-2261. To avoid online fees, you may also pur- Imports and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the Labyrinth. For Genocide: Memoirs of an Armenian Soldier in the chase your tickets in person at the Berklee Box Office, 10 first-time walkers introduction to walking a labyrinth at Ottoman Turkish Army, Sunday, 3 p.m. sharp. The Illinois am – 6pm. For more info or questions, email sirusho- 5:30 p.m. RSVP appreciated. Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods [email protected] . You may also follow us on Facebook [email protected] Drive Skokie, Il. 60077—-RSVP (847) 967-4800. There are at www.facebook.com/events/162986714315959/ AUGUST 15 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage no other books in literature on this aspect of the Reserve your tickets for this memorable cultural evening Park on The Greenway, Boston, Wednesday, 5-6:30 Genocide. The book also contains rare documents and of Armenian song and dance. p.m. Meet & Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM pictures which will be shown during a power point pre- APRIL 8 — Annual Reconfiguration of the Abstract Tea Imports and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the sentation. Book signing during reception. Sculpture, Armenian Heritage Park on The Greenway, Labyrinth. For first-time walkers introduction to walking a Boston, Sunday, 7 am Rain Date: Sunday, April 15 labyrinth at 5:30 p.m. RSVP appreciated. MASSACHUSETTS APRIL 11 — A recap on the status of the documentary [email protected] project “Neighbors in Memory,” accompanied by a SEPTEMBER 16 — Sunday Afternoon at the Park for MARCH 8-11 — The Global Cinema Film Festival of panel of community members shedding light on the state Families & Friends. Armenian Heritage Park on The Boston (GCFF) announces its 2018 Official Selections. of Armenian-Turkish relations as they live and witness it. Greenway. 2-4 p.m. Enjoy Boston Hye Guys Ensemble The 3rd annual global event will be held at the Studio Wednesday, 7 p.m., Capitol Theatre, 204 Mass. Ave., with Ron Sahatjian, clarinet; Joe Kouyoumjian, oud; Art Cinema, 376 Trapelo Road, Belmont, MA. Festival kicks Arlington. Screenings, discussions and refreshments. For Chingris, percussion. RSVP appreciated. off on March 8, at 6 p.m. with Red Carpet Event and film more information: [email protected] [email protected] screenings until 10 p.m. Film screenings will continue APRIL 14 — Saturday, St. James Great Gatsby Gala! A from Friday, March 9, through Sunday, March 11, 2018 Roarin’ 20s Celebration! Live Jazz & Armenian Music, MICHIGAN from 12 to 11 p.m. March 11 panel discussion with Passed Hors D’oeuvres, Mezza and Dessert Stations and Tamara Stepanyan, Aram Arkun and others after the film more. St. James Armenian Church – 465 Mt. Auburn MARCH 22 — Talk by Adrienne Alexanian on her “Those From the Shore,” starting at 3.30 p.m. For info Street, Watertown, 8 p.m., Tickets $100. Purchase online father’s memoir, Forced into Genocide: Memoir of an visit @ www.worldwidecinemaframes.com. globalcine- at www.stjameswatertown.org or Armenian Soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Army. [email protected] contact [email protected]. Thursday, 7 p.m., Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman MARCH 11 — “Jazz and Art for YerazArt” Sunday, 6 APRIL 20-21 — Commemorating the 103rd anniversary Family Campus, 28123 Orchard Lake Road Farmington p.m., at anoush’ella saj kitchen, 35 W. Newton St., of the Armenian Genocide, first at the State House, Hills, MI 48334. The book presents a unique account of Boston. Reception and open bar, featuring Oriental Trio on Friday, April 20, 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., Boston. A free the Armenian genocide and was translated from the (Mina Cho on piano, Vasilis Kostas on Laouto and George reception will follow. Then on Saturday, April 21, a Armenian and edited by Adrienne Alexanian. RSVP by Lernis on world percussion and drum-set) and art sale to Commemoration at the Park, 3 to 5 p.m. Further details March 20. 248-553-2400x112 or rsvp@holocaustcen- benefit YerazArt programs. Parking available at adjacent will follow. For more information, visit ter.org. Free with admission or membership. Book sign- BU Dental School Parking (720 Harrison Avenue, Boston [email protected]. ing during reception. MA 02118). Tickets: $125 per person. To purchase, visit: MAY 5 — Saturday, Kentucky Derby Watch Party, Fun www.yerazart.org and festivities to support Armenia Tree Project, At the ele- NEW JERSEY MARCH 12 — Trinity Men’s Union Dinner and Meeting, gant/historic Gore Place in Waltham. Details to follow. 6 p.m., Social Hour, 7 p.m., Dinner, Charles and Nevart MAY 5 — Save the date! Annual Meeting, Armenian MARCH 13 — 7:45 p.m.: Ohannes Kılıçdagı, “The Talanian Cultural Hall, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of International Women’s Association (AIWA). Details Armenian Community in Istanbul and Crisis facing Greater Boston, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. Guest to follow. Contact: [email protected] or 617- the Patriarchate,” at St. Leon Armenian Church/Charles Speaker: Field Yates, ESPN Reporter, who will speak 926-0171. & Grace Pinajian Youth Center, 12-61 Saddle River Road, about everything and anything NFL. All are welcome. May 5 — Celebrate Public Art during Artweek on Fair Lawn. Co-sponsored by AGBU Ararat, Constantinople Donation for Baked Shrimp Scampi Dinner is $15 per per- Saturday at the Park, Armenian Heritage Park on Armenian Relief Society (C.A.R.S.), Esayan-Getronagan son. RSVP requested by March 10 to The Greenway, Boston, 1 p.m., World Labyrinth Day: Alumni Inc., NAASR / Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation [email protected] or call David Dorian, Walk As One in peace & harmony with people in cities Series on Contemporary Armenian Issues, St. Leon 617.501.4300. For further information, log onto and towns worldwide including the labyrinth in Gyumri. Armenian Church, and Tibrevank Alumni Inc. http://www.htaac.org/calendar/event/548/ At 12:45 p.m., introduction to Walking a Labyrinth, 1:30 MARCH 13 — Armenian Business Networking (ABN) pm - Reception to View the 2018 Configuration of the NEW YORK Winter Business Networking event, Tuesday, 6:30 Abstract Sculpture. Remarks: Sarah Baker, editor-in-chief, p.m., the Sheraton Commander in Cambridge. Stephen Art New England magazine. Introduced by Lucas Cowan, MARCH 18 — 6 p.m.: Armenian film screenings in Demirjian guest speaker from The Achieve Institute Public Art Curator, Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy. Socially Relevant Film Festival, “Armenians of the shares methods on creating greater personal and work Tea & Desserts, hosted by MEM Tea Imports & Eastern World” (Director: Carmen Labaki) and Hot Country, Cold life success. This event is free of charge. RSVP: armeni- Lamejun Bakers. RSVP appreciated. Winter (Director: David Safarian). At Cinéma Village 22 E [email protected] [email protected] 12th St, NY, NY. Co-sponsored by AGBU Performing Arts, MARCH 16 — Program to combat domestic violence in MAY 6 — “Celebrating 400 Hundred Years of Armenian NAASR, St. Leon Armenian Church, and SOAR. Click here Armenia, Papken Suni Agoump, 76 Bigelow Ave., American Heritage: 1618-2018” Exhibition and the for more information and to purchase tickets. Watertown, 7 to 9 p.m. Maro Matosian, executive direc- launching of Armenian Legacy in America: A 400- tor of the Women’s Support Center, Armenia. Advance Year Heritage by Dr. Hayk Demoyan in an illustrated CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE RSVP required Email [email protected]. This talk. Other speakers include Robert Mirak, Barbara J. S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 ARTS & LIVING

Armenian Museum Of America Appoints Jennifer Liston Munson As Executive Director WATERTOWN, Mass. — The Board of Trustees at the Armenian Museum of America announced on February 28 the appointment of Jennifer Liston Munson as the Armenian Museum’s next executive director. Liston Munson’s association with the organization first began in 2011 when she was introduced to the museum by portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh’s widow, Estrellita Karsh. It was at that time that Liston Munson, one of the professionals from the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA), Boston, along with her colleague Keith Crippen, transformed the first floor of the

Jennifer Liston Munson

Museum in preparation for the Karsh: Celebrating Humanity and Highlights from the Collection exhibitions. Following this transformational project, the Executive Committee at the Museum contracted Liston Munson for a number of other projects. Her work has always been of the highest caliber and has brought a new level of excellence and awareness to the Armenian Museum. She designed the Simourian Family Galleries which feature the exhibition Objects That Transcend, a dis- play of newly-acquired metalwork, and the Adele and Haig Der Manuelian Contemporary Galleries, where she curated and designed Scars of Silence, an installa- tion of video and photography by Nubar Alexanian that explores the subconscious suppression of loss by three generations of Armenian-Americans. In 2017 she worked with graphic designer Andrew Wollner to create the rebranding and identity program for the museum, which draws from an NEW YORK RHODE ISLAND expressive symbol of eternity carved on a 12th-century Armenian monastery to form a MARCH 28, 6:00 p.m.: Taner Akçam, “Killing Orders: Talat MARCH 16 — Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Church Cultural distinctive logo that, combined with the Pasha’s Telegrams and the Armenian Genocide,” at Committee presents: New and exclusive screening, tagline art, culture and eternity, sets the Columbia University. Co-sponsored by the Columbia Armenian Armenian Film Festival. The Nation’s Past and Present “Our tone for the reinvention of the museum. Center and NAASR. (Venue TBA.) Further details to follow. Yerevan – Capital of Armenia” (Matenadaran, Museums, “During Jennifer’s association with the APRIL 21 - MAY 13 — Off-Broadway production by Pan Asian Kaskad, “Ani Plaza” hotel, modern architecture, Vernisazh,… ) Armenian Museum, she developed a great Repertory Theatre of Joyce Van Dyke’s play, “Daybreak:” Presented in English, Friday, 7 p.m. In Egavian Cultural Center love and passion for Armenian art, history the lyrical story of two Armenian women friends, survivors from 70 Jefferson Street, Providence, RI 02908 and culture. One of her many goals will be to 1915, who are transported with their families into the 21st cen- develop programs and exhibitions to expand tury future. Starring Lorraine Serabian as Victoria. Performances WASHINGTON, DC visibility of the museum to a wider audience at the Beckett Theatre, 410 W. 42nd St., New York, Tuesdays within both the Armenian and non- through Sundays; weekend matinees; discount tickets for MARCH 10 — Saturday, 6:30 p.m. Benefit theatrical presen- Armenian communities,” the museum’s seniors, students and groups. For tickets and information: tation for the teachers of Knights of Vartan School in Board of Trustees said in a statement. “The Telecharge: www.telecharge.com or call (212) 239-6200. Or Armenia. Taleen Babayan’s “Where Is Your Groom? II” At Board feels extremely fortunate to have contact the theatre: [email protected], (212) 868-4030. Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus, someone with her extensive experience and Ernst Community Cultural center, 8333 Little River Turnpike, creativity leading the museum at this pivotal PENNSYLVANIA Annandale. Tickets $30. By credit card go time in the organization’s history.” to paypal.me/DaughtersofVartanUS or call Takuhi at (301) 219- Liston Munson received her MFA from the APRIL 28 — Join the Armenian Assembly of America for its 4041. School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Philadelphia Celebration at the National Constitution and Tufts University, and a BFA from Center on Saturday, starting at 6 p.m. The Armenian Assembly Massachusetts College of Art and Design will be honoring longtime members and Life Trustees Peter and Calendar items are free. Entries should not be longer than 5 and Loughborough College of Art and Irene Vosbikian. The evening’s entertainment will feature lines. Listings should include contact information. Items will be Design in England. Prior to her work as a Kevork Artinian Entertainment and his Band. To learn more, visit edited to fit the space, if need be. A photo may be sent with the senior member of the Exhibitions and www.aimhye.com. RSVP by Monday, April 16. listing no later than Mondays at noon. Design Department at the MFA, she was a 2001 Traveling Scholar at the MFA. Jennifer maintains a professional art practice. Her work is held in many corporate and private collections. 18 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror No Crime but Punishment

paper in the West. He is also a novelist who ironically had writ- Spectator ten a work where his hero is jailed like Kafka’s protagonist, with- By Edmond Y. Azadian out understanding his crime. After his conviction, he wrote an essay from Silivri prison, where he states, “I am going to Hades. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is his own worst I walk into darkness like a god who wrote his own destiny. My enemy. He was smart enough to pretend before the rest of the protagonist and I disappear into the darkness together.” (See EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 world that his mission was to move his country from the Middle the column, originally published in the New York Times, on the Ages to the modern democratic era. Even Western leaders next page.) An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication began to refer to Turkey as a role model for the Islamic world, Altan and his brother are not alone. There are already 100 combining democratic values with Islamic institutions and other journalists in jail, 50,000 citizens are detained and 250,000, Islamic nations were urged to emulate it. including judges and police officers, fired from their jobs. That piece of make-believe allowed Erdogan a lot of latitude Turkey is descending into a somber future. Intellectuals like the EDITOR to further build up his armed forces through NATO and to devel- Altans were out to put a human face on Turkey. When Altan had Alin K. Gregorian op Turkey’s economy at a dramatic pace. visited the US six years ago, he not only recognized the But it did not take too long for him to reveal his true face by Armenian Genocide, but he said he also believed that Turkey ASSISTANT EDITOR undoing Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s secular reforms, bringing had changed for the better. “You must change your perception Aram Arkun back the veil to women and the Koran to the new madreses pop- of Turkey. Maybe you can help Turkey change.” ART DIRECTOR ping up everywhere. The late Hrant Dink had also brought that same message to Marc Mgrditchian The Europeanized segment of Turkish society was caught off the outside world. Despite Hrant’s tragic end, Ahmet Altan still guard, becoming alienated in its own country. Writers like Nobel believed that Turkey was on a positive path. His message tried

SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Edmond Y. Azadian

CONTRIBUTORS: Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun Arzoumanian, Philippe Raffi Kalfayan, Diana Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian

CORRESPONDENTS: Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Boston - Nancy Kalajian New York/New Jersey - Taleen Babayan Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach

Contributing Photographers: Jirair Hovsepian

The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published weekly, except two weeks in July and the first week of the year, by: Baikar Association, Inc. 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Telephone: 617-924-4420 FAX: 617-924-2887 www.mirrorspectator.com E-Mail: [email protected] For advertising: [email protected] Prize-winner Orhan Pamuk and internationally celebrated nov- to humanize Turkey’s image. He was sincere when he stated dur- elist Elif Shafak found themselves out of place. Erdogan and his ing one of his public speeches: “Turks have hearts and con- AKP party did not mind that alienation as long as they could sciences, believe me. We need to proceed to overcome the garner the 51 percent vote from the Anatolian peasants to push bloody line of 1915.” back Turkey to the Middle Ages. The irony is that Turkey’s “conscience” did not spare him, let Intoxicated by his newly-acquired power, Erdogan began to along his target audience of Armenians. SUBSCRIPTION RATES : entertain his Ottoman dreams, domestically repressing the pop- When the attempted coup was botched, Erdogan was ecstat- ulation and internationally bullying allies. However, he painted ic. He said this was a “God-sent gift to us.” Indeed, that pretext himself into a corner, where he could only solicit the help of sim- gave him the opportunity to settle scores with all his enemies U.S.A. $80 a year ilar authoritarian powers, those in Russia, China and Iran. and sink the country into a dungeon. His arch enemy, Fethullah Turkey’s tilt towards a pariah status helped Armenia in the Gulen, is blamed for all the ills of Turkey and one of the prob- Canada $125 a year Western world but not necessarily among old friends, namely lems which he has with the US administration, namely that Other Countries $190 a year Russia and Iran. Germany, the Netherland and Chile passed res- Washington has refused to extradite Gulen to Turkey where he olutions recognizing the Armenian Genocide; at one point, even is to stand trial. Erdogan wants to believe that the US judiciary Egypt and Israel toyed with the idea. These were all gifts to can operate arbitrarily, just as it does in Turkey, so that the US Armenia courtesy of Mr. Erdogan. will pack up Gulen and deliver him to Ankara. © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator At this stage, Turkey is at a turning point, alienated from the The fallout between the former allies, Erdogan and Gulen, is Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA West and tenuously held by the East, but still believing in its a blessing in disguise. Because the latter has a much-more suave and additional mailing offices. power to pull itself out of the quagmire. and discreet method of promoting Islam. Islam is permeated in ISSN 0004-234X Shafak, who was taken to court because of her recognition of the US through hundreds of charter schools run by Gulen’s the Armenian Genocide along with Pamuk, portrays modern Hizmet Society at the expense of US taxpayers. The same kind Turkey in the following terms: “It is an unhappy country that of operation extends to many countries. At least, their antago- POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The hates its public intellectuals. Turkey, my motherland, is one such nism cancels out each other’s efforts to proselytize a brand of Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472 place. Increasingly today, intellectuals are demonized in pro-gov- Islam which seems more moderate but it may degenerate into ernment media, trolled on social media, accused of being violence. Anywhere and anytime politics and religion mix, the Other than the editorial, views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily ‘traitors’ or ‘collaborating with western powers,’ put on trial, result can be combustible. reflect the policies of the publisher. imprisoned or exiled.” Erdogan has proven to be the necessary evil to perform the One such Kafkaesque trial sentenced prominent novelist and dirty work of the west in the Middle East. But while performing editor Ahmet Altan and his brother, Mehmet Altan, an eco- that task, he has also betrayed his selfish agenda which is to nomics professor and political commentator, to life imprison- cater to the Islamic ambitions of his administration. ment without the possibility of parole on February 28. Their Holding prisoner 80 million citizens and juggling with the Copying for other than personal use or internal reference is prohibited without guilt was their appearance on a television program hosted by world powers of the East and West will eventually prove too express permission of the copyright Nazli Ilicak a day before the coup attempt in July 2016. They, as much to handle for this modern Sultan. owner. Address requests for reprints or well as Ilicak, are accused of having emitted “subliminal mes- Ahmet Altan laments his destiny after the verdict is pro- back issues to: sages” announcing the coup. There is no other explanation to nounced by writing: “We will never be pardoned and we will die this harsh verdict other than a chilling witch hunt. in a prison cell.” Baikar Association, Inc. Ahmet Altan is a left-leaning intellectual who was a founding Erdogan’s untenable policy will certainly precipitate the 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- editor of Taraf, which was regarded as a highly credible news- demise of his rule and disprove Altan’s prophesy. 1509 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY

Protocols on October 10, 2009, President Sargsyan embarked pressure them into making a decision that was contrary to on a worldwide tour of major Armenian communities in Paris, the Armenian people’s interests. As a small state, it is under- New York, Los Angeles, Beirut, and Rostov-on-Don (Russia) standable that Armenia could not act like its larger and more ostensibly to listen to their concerns regarding the Protocols. powerful Turkish neighbor, which repeatedly flaunts the However, it was clear from his remarks at these meetings that wishes of the international community. Nevertheless, My Turn he had made up his mind to go ahead with the Protocols, and Armenia’s leaders could at least make an effort to keep for- the intent of the tour was to persuade Diaspora Armenians to eign intervention to a minimum. By Harut Sassounian give up their objections. During his visits overseas, President Another lesson Armenia’s leaders should learn from the Sargsyan was greeted with angry protests and confrontations Protocols’ debacle is that before they embark on initiatives making his propaganda tour a failure. that affect Armenian interests worldwide, they should hold The Terminated Armenia-Turkey During his stop in Los Angeles on October 4, 2009, he met serious consultations to make sure that the majority of Protocols Should Be a Lesson for with leaders of 60 Armenian organizations with the over- Armenians in Armenia and the Diaspora are on board with whelming majority criticizing the pending Protocols, while their decisions. Naturally, internal matters affecting those liv- Armenia’s Leaders thousands of Armenians demonstrated outside the hotel ing within Armenia’s borders are their prerogative, however, where the meeting was taking place. issues that affect all Armenians, such as the Armenian Finally, the President of Armenian officially declared null In my remarks at that meeting, I cautioned the president Genocide, Armenian territorial demands from Turkey, and the and void the infamous Armenia-Turkey Protocols during a that Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan’s President, by objecting to the final settlement of the Artsakh conflict, are major concerns to meeting of the National Security Council last week. President Protocols, would block their eventual ratification by Turkey. all Armenians. Long before signing any documents on these Sargsyan had made several announcements since 2009, warn- Ironically, such an outcome would mean that Azerbaijan’s subjects, Armenia’s leadership should ensure that most ing that he would remove the Protocols from the Parliament’s President, not Armenian’s President, would be inadvertently Armenians agree with them. Otherwise, we shall see the rep- agenda unless Turkey ratified them shortly. Sargsyan’s most defending Armenia’s interests. etition of ugly confrontations in Armenia and the Diaspora recent such warning was made last September, during his It was clear to many Armenians, both inside and outside of with Armenian authorities. remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, stating that Armenia, that Turkey had no intention of opening its mutual I raise these concerns in response to President Sargsyan’s he would declare the Protocols null and void before the border. The Protocols were a Turkish ploy to pressure two statements last week: spring of 2018. Armenia to make territorial concessions to Azerbaijan on “When we started the negotiation process, we naturally The Protocols were signed by Armenia’s Foreign Minister Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). predicted two outcomes — positive or negative.” Edward Nalbandian and Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet In fact, the signing ceremony in 2009 was delayed by sev- “If we get proposals tomorrow, or the next day, we will be Davutoglu on October 10, 2009, in Zurich, Switzerland. Also eral hours when it became known that Turkey’s Foreign ready to discuss them.” present at the signing ceremony were the Foreign Ministers Minister, in his remarks, would link the unrelated subject of Sargsyan’s statements indicate that Armenia’s leaders have of Russia, France, Switzerland, US Secretary of State, and the Karabagh conflict to the Protocols. Only the last-minute not recognized their mistaken approach to Armenian-Turkish high-ranking officials of the European Union. intervention by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton tem- issues. It is not true that Armenia did not lose anything. The lengthy text of the Protocols called for the opening of porarily resolved the dispute and the two sides proceeded to Turkey manipulated the Protocols to ensure that no foreign the borders between Armenia and Turkey, and establishment sign the Protocols. country meddled in the Armenian Genocide issue. In fact, US of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The However, in the years following the signing ceremony, the President Obama also exploited the Protocols to refrain from Protocols also included many other unrelated matters, such Turkish leaders made repeated statements that they had no using the term Armenian Genocide in his April 24 statement as recognizing the existing Armenian-Turkish border and the intention to ratify the Protocols unless Armenia made con- of 2009 and in the subsequent seven years. establishment of a historic commission to examine problems cessions on Artsakh. Indeed, Azerbaijan had vigorously Furthermore, President Sargsyan’s statements indicate that between the two countries — meaning the Armenian protested the signing of the Protocols and warned Turkey not Armenia is apt to make the same mistake again. For years, he Genocide. to proceed with ratification. Azerbaijan intended to pressure had been declaring that Armenia is ready to ratify the Protocols As a result, there was a worldwide outcry against adoption Armenia to make territorial concessions on Artsakh by keep- the same day that Turkey ratifies them. Fortunately, Turkey of the Protocols with protests both in Armenia and many ing Armenia’s borders with Turkey closed. never ratified the Protocols, preventing Armenia from taking Diasporan communities. Shortly before the signing of the Armenia’s leaders had allowed major foreign powers to an action contrary to its own national interests. ‘I Will Never See the World Again.’

Editors’ note: On Feb. 16, a Turkish court sentenced Ahmet Altan, a novelist and former newspaper editor; his broth- As I dream, three men with ties loosened out of boredom er, Mehmet Altan, an economics professor and political commentator; Nazli Ilicak, a prominent journalist; and three deliberate my destiny. Perhaps they have already made their media employees to life imprisonment without parole for involvement in the July 15, 2016, coup attempt in Turkey. decision. I suddenly remember a passage from my novel “Like The Altan brothers had appeared on a television program hosted by Ms. Ilicak a day before the coup attempt. Turkish a Sword Wound,” which is set in the last days of the Ottoman prosecutors claimed that they gave “subliminal messages” announcing the coup on the program. Empire. One of my characters is arrested and he is in a room Turkey says that a network led by Fethullah Gulen, an Islamist cleric based in the United States, orchestrated the waiting for the verdict. coup, which included an attempt on President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s life, the bombing of the Parliament and the I wrote of him: “The gap between the moment that a person’s deaths of more than 270 people. In the purge by the Turkish government that followed, more than 150,000 people destiny changed and the moment the person realized this have been fired from their jobs, detained or arrested. seemed to him to be the most tragic and frightening aspect of Mr. Altan wrote this essay about his imprisonment and sentencing, and about fiction and reality, in his prison cell in life. The future became clear, but the person continued to wait the city of Silivri, on the outskirts of Istanbul. It was published originally in the New York Times on February 28. This for another future with other expectations and dreams without essay was translated by Yasemin Congar from the Turkish. realizing that the future had already been determined. The igno- Altan had spoken to the Armenian community in Watertown in 2012 about the need to recognize the Armenian rance during that wait was horrible and to him was humanity’s Genocide [https://mirrorspectator.com/2012/02/02/altan-captivates-large-audience-with-message-of-hope-at-alma/].) greatest weakness.” I remember those sentences and shiver. I am living what I wrote in a novel. Years ago as I was wandering in that looks up at the ceiling. The lines of pleasure moving across his unmarked, enigmatic and hazy territory where literature touch- By Ahmet Altan face suggest he is daydreaming. When he doesn’t seem to be es life, I had met my own destiny and failed to recognize it. I am daydreaming he leans his head on his hand and sleeps. The now under arrest like my protagonist. I am waiting for the deci- judge on the left busies himself with the computer in front of sion that will determine my future as he had. My life imitates SILIVRI, Turkey — They sit on a bench that is two meters him, continuously reading something. my novel. high. They wear black robes with red collars. In a few hours Around noon they tell us they will withdraw for deliberations. What else that I wrote will come true? I feel I am being they will decide my destiny. I look at them. They have loosened We are surrounded by gendarmes. They are wearing RoboCop dragged into a vortex where my fiction and my life are entan- their ties out of boredom. gear with black plastrons and kneepads. A gendarme takes each gled, where what is real and what is written imitate each other. Every weekday, get thought-provoking commentary from Op- of us by the arm and walks us between two rows of guards and What kind of destiny had I chosen for my protagonist? What Ed columnists, the Times editorial board and contributing writ- down narrow stairs. was his fate? ers from around the world. They put us in a tiled holding cell with iron bars. We are five Suddenly, I hear gendarmes’ boots. “Come on,” says a voice, The chief judge, sitting in the middle, splays his right arm men. The sixth defendant, a woman, is taken elsewhere because “the decision has been made.” At once, I remember: My pro- across the bench like a piece of wet laundry and fiddles with his of her gender. tagonist was convicted — that was the destiny I chose for him. fingers. He has a long, narrow face. His eyes are hidden under The Supreme Court had examined the evidence against us I know I, too, will be convicted. Because that is what I wrote. swollen half-closed eyelids. Every now and then he looks at his and ruled that “no one could be arrested based on such evi- The gendarmes take us upstairs. We enter the courtroom and cellphone to read his messages. dence.” This has made the journalists on trial with us opti- sit down. The judges come in and don the black robes they had When one of my co-defendants says he is about to undergo mistic. I am not. left on their chairs. heart bypass surgery, the chief judge pulls the microphone We pace the holding cell nervously from one end to the The chief judge, the one with eyes hidden beneath swollen toward him and speaks in a mechanical voice. “The hospital told other. The minutes go by, now faster, now slower, depending eyelids, reads the decision: “Life without parole.” us there were no circumstances preventing your stay in prison,” on the tempo of our conversations. When the minutes slow We will spend the rest of our lives alone in a cell that is three he says. down, we feel wounds opening inside us. We hide this from meters long and three meters wide. We will be taken out to see As defense lawyers talk about the most crucial matters, his one another. The minutes passed in a holding cell as you wait the sunlight for one hour a day. We will never be pardoned and mechanical voice orders: “You have two minutes. Wrap it up.” I to hear whether you will be sentenced to life in prison are tor- we will die in a prison cell. remember what Elias Canetti said about such people: “Being ture. That is the decision. I hold out my hands. They handcuff me. safe, at peace and in splendor, and then to hear a person’s pleas I encounter with some embarrassment flickers of hope and I will never see the world again. I will never see a sky unframed while determined to turn a deaf ear … could anything be more dreams beneath my pessimism. A man freezing inside cannot by the walls of a courtyard. vile than that?” abandon hope and its warm glow. I daydream in the cell: I leave I am going to Hades. I walk into the darkness like a god who While the defendants and their lawyers speak, the chubby, the prison, a deep breath, the first embrace, words of joy, the wrote his own destiny. My protagonist and I disappear into the skew-eyed judge to the chief’s right leans back in his chair and smell of happiness and a wide sky above. darkness together. 20 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 0 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR New Yorker Boyajian Makes His Case for Congress

BOYDJIAN, from page 1 and teach and rectify the injustices of the past. Economic development is an important part the economy to be good stewards of the envi- Church Youth Organization of America], and He said, “We need to elect a Congress commit- of his platform. He said, “I think it is much ronment. Therefore, he said, “I vehemently eating Armenian food two or three times a ted to advocate for Native Americans and tribal more complex than any one facet would sug- oppose efforts to weaken the EPA.” He also is week (my mother is an amazing Armenian communities, to improve the lives of people in gest, and there never can be a silver bullet solu- against weakening the Consumer Protection cook). We grew the grape leaves right on the those communities.” tion for economic development.” However, he Bureau, as, he said, protection of consumers is fence at our house, and she makes yalanchi and His firm also worked on the opioid epidemic. supports conservation development regionally, necessary. sarma all the time from the leaves. It was a big Boyajian said, “We need a comprehensive and in general, said, “We need a huge reinvest- He said, “Health care is a right as far as I am part of my life growing up, both in the upstate approach. We need funds for treatment, educa- ment in infrastructure, with a bipartisan infras- concerned. There should be a lower entry age community and visiting my mother’s family in tion prevention, and criminal justice reform. tructure bill.” He said he would like to sit on for Medicare at 55, and ultimately a move

Rhode Island.” He understands a little (PHOTO: DON BOYAJIAN CAMPAIGN) the committee on infrastructure if toward universal coverage.” Armenian, and says that though he has not elected to Congress. His nuanced Though Boyajian is a lifelong gunowner and been to Armenia, and has not taken time to understanding of trade and our sportsman, he declared, “Enough is enough. It travel in general, it is “high on my list of things strategic relationship with Canada is sickening to see Congress’ inability to enact to do.” will be useful, he added. any number of commonsense reforms that Armenian connections continued to play an Boyajian backs “a tax framework almost any responsible gunowner would agree important role in Boyajian’s life. He graduated that is committed to providing true upon.” from Colgate University in 2007 with a degree middle class tax relief,” unlike the There may be as many as nine candidates in in environmental biology and geography, and recent tax bill, cutting back on the the Democratic primary right now, but, as then served as a legislative aide in the US local and state tax deductions, which Boyajian explained, the number is in flux, and Congress, focusing on agriculture, natural “will send people running to the hills may go down to two or three after petitioning resources, and energy policy. He also he met a outside of New York State.” It is, he is completed. Among Boyajian’s opponents at lot of friends and colleagues during this period said, “a handout to the millionaires present in this primary is former MSNBC through the Armenian Assembly and the and billionaires” and a “tax scam anchor Dylan Ratigan, a commentator for the Armenian National Committee of America. He which will cripple us in debt.” He online show “The Young Turks” (whose remembers seeing the Armenian Genocide res- wants to create good paying middle founder Cenk Uygur publicly denied the olution fall short while he was a staffer in The Boyajian family circa 1908 in (Western) Armenia: class jobs instead. Armenian Genocide as late as 1999, but shifted Congress, and feels that “there are so many Don’s grandfather, Joe, is the young boy in the front In addition, he said that as some- his position in 2016). Uygur praised Ratigan, untold stories of genocide and racial injustice.” one that worked extensively on the declaring to the Hollywood Reporter Acknowledging and confronting these issues, Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/m whether historical or current, he said, “is the Anywhere you go in my district, you will meet Consumer Protection Act of 2010, he was dis- snbc-anchor-dylan-ratigan-running-congress- only way to prevent such things happening in people affected by this health crisis.” heartened to see it weakened, and emphasized, 1086884) on February 21 that Ratigan will be the future.” Aside from the Armenian Genocide Boyajian explained why he wants to serve in “We need financial regulation that is protective a “great” candidate. If Boyajian wins the prima- issue, he would work in Congress for foreign aid Congress as follows: “I always have been pri- of consumers, protective of the people on main ry, he will face incumbent Rep. Elise Stefanik, a parity with rest of the region and protecting marily a policy driven person…I saw a lot of street. We cannot let Wall Street gamble with Republican. our churches in the Middle East. trends in my home community that I did not our savings and retirement funds — we need a Sheriff Peter Koutoujian of Middlesex Boyajian went from working in Congress to like, a lot of young people leaving, a lot of stores firewall between them.” County is one of Boyajian’s supporters in Cornell Law School, and after graduating in closing…I said I have to do something about Boyajian favors comprehensive campaign Massachusetts. He stated: “Don Boyajian is a 2012, clerked in the office of the United States this.” He said his experience at the federal, finance reform. He said, “I took a pledge early true public servant, having spent his career District Court for the Northern District of New municipal and state level will be very helpful, in our campaign not to accept any donations fighting against corporate polluters on behalf York, where the District Attorney was Judge along with his bipartisan approach. He stressed, from corporate interests or PACs. I am proud to of small towns across upstate New York. I am Richard S. Hartunian (2010-2017), the first US “We need to elect policy makers not politicians. say that our average donation is under $200. proud to support a young Armenian who has Attorney of Armenian descent according to the This is a public service job.” We need a constitutional amendment to over- decided to put his values first and run for pub- Armenian Bar Association. Boyajian also “Having the right message, the best team, turn Citizens United.” He is at present, he said, lic office. As I have always said, whether a can- clerked in the New York Office of the Attorney and being somebody able to get results,” leading the field financially with a grassroots didate’s name is followed by a ‘R’ or a ‘D,’ the General (Environmental Protection Bureau) Boyajian said, he is confident of his chances in fundraising effort — despite, or perhaps because most important letters are ‘ian.’” and the Securities and Exchange Commission. both the primary and the general election. He of, this pledge. There will be a Boston area fundraiser on After becoming a lawyer, Boyajian soon declared, “We have gotten support all over the Boyajian said that unfortunately the legisla- March 21 at Phinix Grill (628 Trapelo Road, joined the law firm founded by his father, country from a diverse array of groups who tive process has devalued science recently, so it Belmont) for Boyajian with Sheriff Peter Dreyer Boyajian. Here he pursued cases with care about having a strong democracy, fighting is crucial to have members of Congress with sci- Koutoujian, Harry Haytayan, Raffi Festekjian, political and environmental implications. for the middle class, and commitment to civil ence backgrounds. He said that the Steve Mesrobian, Judy Saryan and Victor The firm represented the Mohawks in a case justice,” adding that there are many people in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Zarougian at 5:30 p.m. involving PCB contamination of the St. public service throughout New York State and Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, were all cre- For more information, contact Sam Parker Lawrence River. Boyajian said that in general throughout the country who provide him with ated in the 1970s to help save our communities, ([email protected]) or visit the US should “be honest about our history,” good mentorship and good advice. especially in the Northeast, and it is good for www.don2018.com.

For Your Internal News of Armenia Log on to www.AZG.am In English, Armenian, Russian and Turkish