California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Non-Profit and Armenian Students Organization U.S. Postage 5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PAID Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Permit No. 262 Change Service Requested FRESNO, CA HYE SHARZHOOM Armenian Action th FA|

During the summer of 2016, Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian, director of the Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State, had the opportunity to travel to Lebanon–one of the most important Armenian diasporan centers–for the first Dr. Khatchig Mouradian Photo: ASP Archive time. Der Mugrdechian was 2016 Semester. Dr. Mouradian invited by the Tekeyan Cultural Tadeh Issakhanian is teaching a three-unit course Association to give a talk in Photo: Hourig Attarian Staff Writer entitled “The Beirut, where he spoke on June 7 and its Aftermath,” in addition to about the Armenian community Left to right: Erik Abrahamyan, Aramayis Orkusyan, Michael The Armenian Studies giving three public lectures under of Fresno: its establishment, Rettig, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Elena Sarmazian, Program is both honored and the general heading of “Genocide organization, and important Tadeh Issakhanian, and Molly Gostanian. excited to welcome Dr. Khatchig and Resilience.” landmarks. While in Lebanon, and cultural institutions and met the Armenian Studies Program Mouradian as the 13th Kazan Dr. Mouradian’s course is Professor Der Mugrdechian also with community leaders. Fall Lecture Series titled “The Visiting Professor of Armenian focused on the organization and visited many of the important Der Mugrdechian discussed Armenian Diaspora: Lebanon.” Studies at Fresno State for the Fall See Mouradian Page 5 Armenian educational, religious, his trip in the first lecture of See Lebanon Page 6 2 Hye Sharzhoom October 2016 Armenian Studies Program California State University, Fresno Book/Video/CD Archival Gifts Armenian Studies Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La Porta, and the Armenian Studies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, Spring 2017 Schedule of Courses and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor Hagop James Antranigian, for a copy of the book From Hell General Education-Breadth, Humanities, Area C2 to Heaven: Memoirs of the Armenian Genocide and the • Arm 1B-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B. Der Mugrdechian Armenian Volunteer Corps, (2015), 252pp., in English. This (Class #32215) is the story of Armenag Bedigian-Antranigian, who suffered General Education-Breadth, Arts, Area C1 from the effects of the Armenian Genocide for almost two • ArmS 20-Arts of Armenia 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian years in the Keghi region of Erzerum. (Class #33425) Dr. Antranik Dakessian, Haigazian University, Beirut, Lebanon, for his book Լիբանանի Հայօճախը. Գիրք General Education-Breadth, Area D3 Ա., Համարկումին խաչուղիները (1920-2005), (Beirut: • ArmS 10-Intro Arm Studies 3 9:00A-09:50A MWF H. Ohanessian Haigazian University Press, 2015), 173pp., in Armenian. (Class #33533) This is a fascinating history of the Armenian community in General Education-Integration, Area IC Lebanon from the period of the Armenian Genocide until • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 2:00P-3:15P TuTh H. Ohanessian today. (Class #33571) Greg Devejian, Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a small • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 2:00P-3:15P MW S. La Porta collection of Armenian themed books. (Class #33561) Foundation, , Turkey, for the following • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 3:30P-4:45P TuTh H. Ohanessian The Sounds of Silence: Turkey’s Armenian books: the series (Class #33010) Speak, Volume 1 (2012) (176pp., in English); Volume II- Upper Division Armenian Studies Course Diyarbakir’s Armenians Speak (2013) (231pp., in English); Volume III-Ankara’s Armenians Speak (2015) (165pp., • ArmS 108B-Arm History II 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian in English); Volume IV-Izmit’s Armenians Speak (2016) (Class #32214) (143pp., in English) all prepared by Ferda Balancar. Also For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669. for the book 2012 Declaration: The Seized Properties Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. of Armenian Foundations in Istanbul (2012) (478pp., in Check on requirements for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the current catalog. Turkish and English), a comprehensive and important work, which documents the seizure of Armenian properties http://www.fresnostate.edu/catalog/subjects/armenian-studies/armenia-mn.html (foundations) by the Turkish government from 1915 forward. Each foundation property is mapped and its history thoroughly discussed. Adrine Harutyunyan, Fresno, for a copy of the book Երեք HYE SHARZHOOM ընկեր (Three Comrades) by Erich Maria Remarque, translated from Russian into Armenian by the donor FA|

Photo: Aramayis Orkusyan pool, and board games with their ASO members at the first general meeting of the year. friends. “I enjoyed the activities and the Left to right: Arthur Khatchatrian, Tadeh Issakhanian, Diana Diana Gasparyan The semester began with socializing. They are important Gasparyan, Molly Gostanian, and Elena Sarmazian. Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Staff Writer members volunteering for the because they allow us to share Grandparents’ Day Banquet at our culture and heritage together Alina Arakelian Diana Gasparyan The Armenian Students Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic while having a good time,” said Staff Writer Secretary Organization welcomed a Church on Sunday, September 11. senior Raffi Apkarian. Junior new executive body at the Volunteers sold raffle tickets On September 21, ASO had Tadeh Issakhanian Major: Communicative start of the school year; Tadeh President Disorders-Language Pathology Issakhanian-President, Elena Graduate Student Sarmazian-Vice President, Diana Major: Executive Masters of What made you choose to be a Gasparyan-Secretary, Molly Business Administration part of ASO? Gostanian-Treasurer, and Arthur In high school, I wasn’t able to Khatchatrian-Public Relations. What will you bring to ASO this socialize with other Armenian They will bring new and year? students my age because there creative ideas, activities, and I hope to increase the number of were so few Armenians. I chose volunteer opportunities for the students who become involved. to be a part of the ASO because members. I want to combine several it provides fun opportunities to Since its inception in 1974, different ideas in order to socialize, volunteer, and work the club has been dedicated to increase involvement at Fresno with fellow Armenians. I also promoting awareness of the State as well as open a channel of really enjoy being able to give Armenian culture on campus. communication and involvement back to the Armenian community. “ASO is important because the between our ASO and other future leaders of our Armenian college Armenian groups across Molly Gostanian-Treasurer community will come from the state. Freshman this organization. The members Archive Photo: ASP What makes ASO unique? Major: Business learn how to become leaders and Students display the Armenian flag tattoos applied during We are unique in that most if not how to organize events,” said Armenia’s Independence Day celebration held on Septem- all of our members are pursuing What makes ASO unique? President Issakhanian. ber 21 in the Free Speech area of Fresno State. an Armenian Studies minor or are I decided to join ASO because I a booth in the Free Speech area enrolled in one or more Armenian am a freshman and wanted to get decorated with posters that Studies classes. ASO has been involved. I saw the ASO booth gave information and facts on around since the 1970’s, which on Club Day and I was excited Armenia’s 25th Anniversary of also sets us apart. to meet more Armenians and to Independence. make a difference in any way Members applied temporary Elena Sarmazian possible. tattoos of the Armenian flag, Vice-President which many students were Senior Arthur Khatchatrian excited to display. Major: Psychology Public Relations It was an effective way of Freshman getting people involved and What will you bring to ASO this Major: Computer Science raising awareness of Armenia’s year? independence. This year I plan on bringing a lot What made you choose to be a ASO will be holding many of fun socials to ASO in order to part of ASO? Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP more exciting events this get our members more involved I chose to join ASO because ASO members enjoyed socializing at “Game Night.” semester. with the community and build I’m 100% Armenian and I think friendships with each other. it’s important for Armenians ASO Spotlight-Incoming Freshmen Officers What makes ASO unique? to unite and come together. Fresno’s Armenian youth is When Armenians come together Tadeh Issakhanian students, especially freshmen, different because we are a small they form their own Armenia, taff riter S W involved with ASO. community with big hearts to and every Armenian in our When asked to share three initiate change for our culture and community should be part of our It has long been said by many things about herself Gostanian we are very proud and dedicated Fresno-Armenia. It’s especially wise men, in many different answered “I played three sports in to our efforts to do that. important for our generation to iterations, that the youth is our high school, I was in my school protect and preserve our culture future. musical, and I love the show and language. This is especially true when ‘Friends.’” talking about a youth organization While at Fresno State speak in that dialect.” Armenian like the Armenian Students Gostanian’s goals are to “further was his first language and Organization (ASO), which my education and find something Armenian food his first love. constantly relies on incoming Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian that I love doing.” His favorite foods in the world students to participate and take Molly Gostanian Arthur Khatchatrian comes are “Pasuts Dolma” and “Gata.” leadership roles. the Visalia area, is majoring in to Fresno State from the Center Khatchatrian’s goals include The organization’s future is Business and serves as the ASO for Advanced Research and promoting the positive side of looking brighter than ever with Secretary for the 2016-2017 Technology (CART) in Fresno, technology, while being an active the election of two freshmen, school year. and will continue his technology- Armenian community member Molly Gostanian and Arthur She is no stranger to taking based studies as a computer and volunteer. Khatchatrian, into the ASO leadership roles and helping science major. Both students have bright executive team. the Armenian community, both Khatchatrian serves as the Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian futures ahead and have shown the Both Gostanian and here in the Valley, as well as in ASO Public Relations Officer, Arthur Khatchatrian willingness and commitment to Khatchatrian take on positions Armenia where she recently spent with a goal of increasing the the executive board of the ACYO being leaders. normally held by upper classmen a summer building houses with club’s social media presence in Seniors at St. Paul Armenian The next four years will afford and graduate students. members of her family and other order to attract more students. Church. them the opportunity to grow as Gostanian, a freshman from volunteers. Gostanian’s goal for In addition to being an ASO Khatchatrian is proud to state students, as individuals, as well Golden West High School in the club this year is to get more executive member, he is also on “I am Gyumretsi and will usually as Armenian youth leaders. October 2016 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Prof. Der Mugrdechian Travels Overseas for Projects Dr. Mouradian Presents New called the “Nakashian Children’s Research on Armenian Genocide Support Center,” to house the Mer Hooys program. After three years of hard work, Mer Hooys opened its doors to disadvantaged girls in 2012. This year, Mer Hooys celebrated the graduation of its first group of six girls from the program. In Turkey, Professor Der Mugrdechian visited the Ottoman Turkish Archives with former Kazan Visiting Scholar Dr. Ümit Kurt. In addition, Professor Der Mugrdechian visited the headquarters of the Hrant Dink Foundation and the Agos newspaper. There, Der Mer Hooys end of the year celebration in Yerevan. Mugrdechian gained insight Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Aramayis Orkusyan on the status of the Armenian Left to right: Prof. Hagop Ohanessian, Aramayis Orkusyan, Staff Writer each other in a variety of fields. community of Turkey. Melanie Kojaartinian, Diana Gasparyan, Tatevik Hovhan- Furthermore, Professor Der Agos published an extensive nisyan, Tadeh Issakhanian, Dr. Khatchig Mouradian, Prof. Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian is collaborating interview with Der Mugrdechian Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Elena Sarmazian, Raffi Apkarian, Mugrdechian, director of the with the Matenadaran on a about his work at the Armenian Michael Rettig. Armenian Studies Program at conservation project aimed at Studies Program and about the Photo: Hourig Attarian Fresno State, is not only active restoring the Armenian Gospel Armenian community of Fresno. Diana Gasparyan diplomatic records to reconstruct in the Armenian community of of Tsughrut, executed in 974 AD Der Mugrdechian met with Staff Writer that history,” said Dr. Mouradian. Fresno, but also abroad. This and located in Tsughrut, Georgia. Delal Dink, director of the Dink One previously untapped past summer, Professor Der The Gospel was brought to Foundation, and daughter of the Dr. Khatchig Mouradian, primary source that Dr. Mugrdechian was invited to Tsughrut from Erzerum in 1829 late Hrant Dink and discussed Kazan Visiting Professor of Mouradian utilized in his research Beirut by the Tekeyan Cultural by refugees who fled the Russo- the various projects of the Armenian Studies at Fresno State, was the archives of the Armenian Association to give a talk to Turkish War. Foundation. The Foundation spoke on the topic of, “Genocide Apostolic Church in Aleppo. the Armenian community While in Armenia, Professor has been active in promoting and Humanitarian Resistance in He discussed how the Church of Lebanon. In addition to Der Mugrdechian also attended conferences addressing issues Ottoman Syria, 1915-1917,” as organized relief committees to visiting Lebanon, Professor Der the graduation ceremony of Mer facing the Armenian community the first of his three-part public help the arriving Armenians, who Mugrdechian also traveled to Hooys-Our Hope, a structured and they are documenting the lectures series on “Genocide and were in terrible condition. The Armenia and Turkey, where he is program that provides girls voices of Resilience.” The lecture, which minutes from those committee working on several collaborative from disadvantaged lifestyles through a series of publications. took place on Tuesday, September meetings contain valuable projects. in Armenia with a safe home, The Hrant Dink Foundation is 20, offered new insight into the information pertaining to the help In Armenia, Professor Der educational mentorship, currently working on establishing Armenian Genocide and attracted given to the deportees, such as Mugrdechian visited the Mesrop psychological and spiritual the first Armenian Studies Center many who were curious to learn purchases made, dates, and lists Mashtots Matenadaran, a research support, health education, life in Turkey. “We are working more about the resistance pursued of the deportees they assisted. center and repository of ancient skills, and job skills training. together discussing how they can by the Armenian deportees in These lists also include the region manuscripts located in Yerevan. Mer Hooys began as a non-profit structure an Armenian Studies Ottoman Syria during World War each person came from, giving “We are exploring different ways organization formed by a group of center in Turkey. This will be the I. Mouradian an idea of where most of assisting each other, including Armenians in California including first time that there is a higher Early in his study of the Armenians were deported from. the exchange of scholarly works, Professor Der Mugrdechian, who education institution that is Armenian Genocide, Dr. “It’s like having a camera in publications, and other material,” is one of the Vice Presidents of Armenian in Turkey,” said Der Mouradian realized the important Aleppo when the deportees were said Der Mugrdechian. The the organization. His Holiness Mugrdechian. The Armenian roles of concentration camps in arriving,” said Dr. Mouradian. Matenadaran and the Armenian Karekin II, Catholicos of All Studies Center will bring new the perpetration of the Genocide. The Armenian Genocide Studies Program recently Armenians, provided a newly researchers and new focus on The Syrian desert region of Der is more known for what the formally agreed to cooperate with renovated two-story building, Armenian Studies to Turkey. Zor, for example was considered oppressors were doing to the to be the “Armenian Auschwitz.” victims, but Dr. Mouradian Mouradian, From Page 1 Dr. Mouradian was especially introduced the idea of how the implementation of the Armenian intrigued by the fact that this was victims fought back in their own Genocide, the humanitarian the largest massacre site during ways against the oppressors. He and armed resistance to it, and the Genocide, yet there had discussed how hiding, running, the long shadow of the crime in been few scholarly studies of the and trying to escape were all Turkey and among Armenians. region. Because of this, he began forms of resistance, and how The course also focuses on to focus more on Syria, narrowing the Armenian people did not go comparative aspects of genocide his research to the period from down without a fight. that are not exclusive to the when deportees arrived in Syria “People always say the last Armenians, including resistance to the concluding massacres in thing that leaves a person is hope. to genocide and the agency of Der Zor in 1916. I would say that the last thing victims of genocide. Researching this topic to leave a person is the will to Dr. Mouradian wants students posed a few challenges and Dr. resist.” to develop a better understanding Mouradian explained how the Dr. Mouradian also stated that of power dynamics, how usual sources, such as missionary most people continue resisting resistance works, and how these accounts, consular accounts, even when they have lost all

dynamics play out in everyday Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian and diplomatic material were hope, which is a universal trend typically nonexistent in the in history. life. Dr. Khatchig Mouradian, seated center, with students from middle of a desert. Dr. Mouradian’s research When asked what makes this his Armenian Genocide class. course unique, Dr. Mouradian This was especially true in highlights this “will to resist,” said that this is the first class he is documenting what remains of and Sociology departments. the case of Der Zor, since the which changes the way historians has taught where the majority of Armenian churches, monuments, In 2016 he completed his Ottoman Turkish state had banned have traditionally viewed the students are of Armenian heritage. and cultural heritage. dissertation, entitled “Genocide any reporting from the area. In Armenian Genocide by giving the “I want the students to He has visited historic and Humanitarian Resistance addition, many documents in the victims more agency. understand their own connection Armenia twenty-four times since in Ottoman Syria, 1915-1917,” Ottoman archives have not been “I hope to help us think about with the past and the challenges 2010, and has interviewed Turks through the Strassler Family easily accessible. the Armenian Genocide, not as the Armenian communities face and Kurds who have rediscovered Center for Holocaust & Genocide “I used material from both the history of people being only to this day,” said Dr. Mouradian. their Armenian roots. He would Studies at Clark University. Armenian and Ottoman archives, oppressed, killed, and massacred, “It is important for them to see eventually like to write a book Dr. Mouradian became the first missionary accounts, and but as people who tried to resist.” their role and their place in this about this topic. Ph.D. recipient under Dr. Taner the Lebanese-Armenian daily Research Fellowship to study the continuum and how they choose Prior to his arrival in Fresno, Akçam, who is widely considered newspaper Aztag from 2000 to Armenian community in China, to define it in light of everything Dr. Mouradian was the Program one of the leading international 2007. He moved from Lebanon to which began to develop in the they know and learn through the Coordinator of the Armenian authorities on the Armenian Boston in 2007 and took on the late 19th century. Dr. Mouradian course.” Genocide Program at the Center Genocide. role of editor for the Armenian has lectured and participated in Dr. Mouradian is working for the Study of Genocide, Conflict Dr. Mouradian has been Weekly, until 2014. conferences all over the world, towards several goals, one of Resolution and Human Rights studying, writing, and lecturing In the same year, Dr. including Armenia, Lebanon, which is turning his dissertation at Rutgers University, where he on Armenian history since Mouradian received a Gulbenkian China, Syria, and Turkey. into a book. Another of his goals also taught courses in the History 2000. He was a junior editor of Foundation Armenian Studies 6 Hye Sharzhoom October 2016 Armenian Studies Library Houses Photograph Archive Eench Ga Chga the materials, assessing how Alina Arakelian • Staff Writer they serve the research interests of the Program and how they As an Armenian, what annual events reflect the history of the Fresno do you look forward to and why? Armenian community. The As an Armenian I look forward to materials are then included on the the anniversary of the Genocide online catalog of the Armenian because it is a time when Studies Program, found on the Armenians come together and we ASP website at fresnostate.edu/ are able to celebrate our triumphs armenianstudies. and mourn our losses. We all come Prior to working in Fresno, together to remember our history Zakian did similar work for and what our people and families the Gulbenkian Library of have gone through to get where the Armenian Patriarchate of we are today. The remembrance Jerusalem. of the Genocide has made the Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP She noted that in both of the Armenian culture more widely Dry-goods store, interior, Shapazian Collection, ASP Archives. communities she has worked Raffi Apkarian known in today’s society. Claire Kasaian archivist, has been cataloging in, the vast collections that each Senior, Chemistry Staff Writer the numerous donations. Zakian institution accumulated was in large part donated generously and a graduate student are Prpoor, which is the traditional by the community. According Over the years the Armenian working on digitizing the historic preparation of grape molasses to Zakian, “the collections tell Studies Program has received a photographs that the Program to celebrate the harvest. It is a a different kind of history than generous amount of donations, has received from the Armenian great event that brings Armenians you might find written in books. such as manuscripts, books, community. together in all aspects. The They speak to the predilections, newspaper clippings, and videos. These photographs will help celebration is a way to share our tastes, and interests of their These materials include Genocide preserve the rich history of the culture by singing traditional communities, accumulated over survivor memoirs, newsletters Armenian culture in Fresno songs and reciting poems. I love time.” from the Diaspora, and and will educate the current how everyone lets loose, eats, These materials tell the story theological and literary works. generation on the history of the drinks, and is purely happy to be of a culture that Zakian is helping Malina Zakian, the Armenian Fresno Armenian community. together. Studies Program librarian and Zakian has begun to evaluate protect and conserve. Arlen Pilavian Triple X Los Angeles Chapter Scholarship Junior, Plant Health-Crop Staff Report Production Management emphasis The Triple X Fraternity-Los Angeles Chapter has established As an Armenian I look forward to a scholarship at Fresno State in the states of California and appreciated by the Southern the Armenian Genocide memorial for 2016 announced Armenian Nevada. California community. events that we organize. They Studies Program Director Prof. Almost 75 years ago, a charter Throughout its history, really show our true colors, where Barlow Der Mugrdechian. was granted to a handful of young the individual chapters have Armenians have come from, and The Triple X-Los Angeles men in Southern California, established several fundraising how strong we still are in today’s Chapter has donated $2,000 to thereby establishing the Los activities to provide support to society. establish the scholarship, which Angeles Chapter of the Triple X meaningful programs serving Claire Kasaian will be awarded to deserving Fraternity of California. both their Armenian heritage and Freshman, Business-marketing Photos: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Armenian students studying at Because of the firm fraternal the local communities in which Fresno State. foundations that were set, the the members live. The Triple X Fraternity is activities of the Los Angeles The Armenian Studies Program approaching its centennial in Chapter were a notable success. appreciates the establishment Hye Sharzhoom 2018, and has prided itself as a The excellence of social of the new Scholarship that will Have you moved? fraternal organization open to activities, as well as charitable benefit Armenian students at men of Armenian descent located endeavors, were recognized and Fresno State. Update your address by Lebanon, From Page 1 contacting us at 559-278-2669.

Der Mugrdechian’s talk on Bikfaya, the summer residence of of books and newspapers in the Friday, September 9 not only the Catholicos. In Bikfaya, Prof. ,” said Der detailed his trip, but also Der Mugrdechian was privileged Mugrdechian. discussed the significance of the to be granted an audience with Today, there are many Armenian community of Lebanon the Catholicos, His Holiness challenges facing both the higher focusing on three basic aspects of Aram I, with whom he discussed and lower education systems in the community: the role of the the current state of the Armenian Lebanon. Prof. Der Mugrdechian church, the role of education, and community in Fresno and visited Haigazian University, the role of cultural organizations. learned of the challenges facing where he met with President Rev. Following the Armenian the Armenian community in Dr. Paul Haidostian and discussed Genocide, Lebanon became the Lebanon. His Holiness presented some of these challenges. Two center of the Armenian diasporan Der Mugrdechian with the gift of the big challenges facing community in the Middle East of one of the Catholicosate’s education today are that there are reaching a peak population of recent significant publications, too many spaces and not enough approximately 225,000–250,000 The Catholicosate of Cilicia— students, and that tuition is

Armenians in 1975, on the eve of Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian History, Mission, Treasures expensive relative to the income the Lebanese Civil War. The Armenian Genocide Museum at The Birds’ Nest Orphanage (Antelias, 2015). of the people in Lebanon. “All of the traditional in Lebanon, opened in 2015. The Museum was established in the Equally important to “Against all odds, however, institutions, which today we see home of missionary Maria Jacobsen. maintaining an Armenian identity Armenian education is still being even in our community here in it is in the world, is the same. the Armenian Catholic Church in diasporan communities is pursued in Lebanon. Considering Fresno, already established their It is a promoter of Armenian worldwide and also houses one the education system. “One of the turmoil, the civil war, all headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon identity, a place for community of the largest collections of the most important aspects of the economic disturbances, and by 1975,” stated Prof. Der interaction, and a center of social Armenian manuscripts in the rebuilding communities was political instability, we might Mugrdechian. Lebanon became life,” said Der Mugrdechian. The world. There, Der Mugrdechian building schools,” said Prof. think otherwise. However, the headquarters of the three importance of churches is perhaps had the opportunity to meet Der Mugrdechian. “After the maintenance of Armenian schools traditional Armenian political more visible in Lebanon than in with Very Rev. Father Antranig Genocide, Armenians placed is a really important priority for parties, the Catholicosate of any other diasporan community Granian, editor of the Haigazian a priority on education. They Armenians in Lebanon,” said Cilicia, the Armenian Catholic as Lebanon is home to 14 Armenological Review and one of built schools and Lebanon is the Prof. Der Mugrdechian. Church, and the Armenian Apostolic Armenian churches, the important scholars in the field best example of that because so Professor Der Mugrdechian’s Evangelical Church. 10 Armenian Catholic churches, of Armenian Studies, and with many schools were built there,” talk highlighted the continued In Lebanon, much like in and 8 Armenian Evangelical Monsignor Gabriel Muradian, continued Der Mugrdechian. At its vitality of the Armenian Fresno, churches have been churches. head of the monastery. peak, Lebanon had 56 Armenian community in Lebanon, despite central in the effort to maintain Professor Der Mugrdechian Additionally, Der Mugrdechian schools with approximately the adversities faced. Much like a strong Armenian community. visited the Armenian Catholic traveled to Antelias, headquarters 21,000 students. “Beirut became in Fresno, the Armenians of “The role of the church in the Monastery in Bzommar, which of the Armenian Catholicosate of the intellectual hub of the Lebanon strive to maintain their Armenian community, wherever has become the headquarters of the Great House of Cilicia, and diaspora, with the publication identity and communal life. October 2016 Hye Sharzhoom 7 Thank You Annual Fund Donors Der Mugrdechian Interviewed on (received as of October 10, 2016) “The Central Valley Ledger” Benefactors Edward Alexander Isgouhi Kassakhian Arnold & Dianne Gazarian Dr. Joseph Alexanian Michael Kazarian Patrons Lucille Apcar Roxie Kricorian John C. & Alice Ipjian Richard Barberian Alan Koobatian Grace Kazarian Dr. & Mrs. Ronald Basmajian Jackie Kurkjian Friends Arcie Bedrosian Al & Diana Lippert Varouj & Lena Altebarmakian George & Gail Bedrosian Dr. & Mrs. L. Manoogian N. Leon Dermenjian Mark Bohigian Mr. & Mrs. Robert Manselian Betty Ann Hagopian Dr. Marlene R. Breu Dr. Ron Marchese Lisa & Peter Miroyan Harry & Arlene Bujulian Robyn Marootian Thomas & Malia Mooradian Todd Cereghino Ralph Matewosian Vicki Marderosian Coughlin Charles Merzian Sponsors Dr. Earlene Craver Eliot Nahigian Howard Emirhanian Kathleen Demerdjian Malcolm & Sandra Narlian in memory of Dorothy Hratch Derkalousdian Irma Noroian Emirhanian Zaven & Berjouie Devejian Kay & Rosemary Paboojian Leo A. Keoshian, M. D. Peter & Raffi Dorian Edward & Blanche Parton Mid Valley Packaging and Gloria Enochian Gladys Peters Supply Co. Harry & Marian Eritzian Dr. Dianne Philibosian Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian and host Sevag John & Lorrie Gahvejian David Gabrielian Robert H. Philibosian Tateosian. Photo: ASP Archive Martin & Christine Krikorian Dr. Alexander Grigorian Leo & Marlene Pilibosian John & Elizabeth Shields Staff Report Pope visited Armenia, but the Antoinette Hagopian Chuck & Debbie Poochigian Greg & Jeanne Simonian professor was able to elaborate Richard Hekemian Cindy & John Rettig Vatche Soghomonian & Fresh off of his trip to on the significance and reason for Rev. Patt Altoonian Herdklotz Edwin Sadoian Dr. Jane Kardashian Armenia, Lebanon, and Turkey, the visit,” said Tateosian. “Our Paul & Margaret Hokokian Mr. & Mrs. Edward Saliba Edward L. Sornigian Armenian Studies Program audience has always enjoyed John & Karen Hovannisian Arpi Sarafian Yergat Packing Co., Director Professor Barlow Der Prof. Der Mugrdechian’s insight Byron M. Ishkanian Suren Seropian Kirk & Kathy Yergat Mugrdechian was invited to on topics.” Roxie Haydostian Jizmejian Greg Shamlian appear on July 7 on “The Central It wasn’t the first time Professor Supporters Mary Kachadoorian Denny Stavros, Ph.D. Valley Ledger,” a Fresno and Der Mugrdechian appeared on the Beverly Achki and Charlene Dian & Larry Karabian Dr. Harold Takooshian Clovis area public affairs program program. He has appeared three Achki Repko, Mr. & Mrs. Hratch Karakachian David Tateosian airing on KFSR 90.7 FM, times previously and covered in memory of Canary Poladian Rev. Vartan & Danna Kasparian Karnig & Mary Torosian CMAC-Comcast 93, and AT&T various topics including: the Ar- 99. The program is recorded with menian Genocide, Christianity ASP, From Page 1 a volunteer crew from Fresno and the Armenians, as well as the State’s Mass Communication and Armenian-American community Studies Program is celebrating Journalism Department and the of Fresno. its 40th anniversary, culminating local Community Media Access “I enjoy having the opportunity with a Banquet on Sunday, March Collaborative in Fresno and to present a look at the Armenian 19, 2017. Clovis. communities of the Diaspora, The ASP was officially The host and producer of the especially those of Lebanon and established in 1977 when Dr. long-standing program, Sevag Turkey. My trip to Beirut was Dickran Kouymjian was recruited Tateosian, is no stranger to the an opportunity to learn about as director. “The foundations Armenian Studies Program. this important Armenian center of the Program were set by Dr. Tateosian is a Fresno State and about what is happening Kouymjian,” said current Director graduate and received his minor in the community,” said Der Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian. in Armenian Studies in 2004. Mugrdechian. Reflecting on his own impact Professor Der Mugrdechian Past guests on the program on the Program, Dr. Kouymjian discussed the reason for his trip also have included Dr. Dickran said “I have been proud of and spoke about his experiences Kouymjian and Dr. Sergio La my role in making Fresno’s Left to right: Former Fresno State President Dr. John Welty in the Middle East. He also talked Porta of the Armenian Studies Armenian Studies Program the with His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians. about the Pope’s visit to Armenia. Program. most active in the U.S., perhaps His Holiness received the President’s Medal of Distinction “Many people heard that the even the entire diaspora in terms on a June 2005 visit to Fresno State. Many distinguished of students graduating with an • The Armenian Series at history, culture, and language guests have visited the Armenian Studies Program over the emphasis, that is a minor, in The Press at Fresno State has through various modes. The last forty years. the discipline.” Throughout the Photo: Randy Vaughn-Dotta, ASP Archive successfully published 6 titles Program makes a significant years, the Armenian Studies Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh; Council for the Society of including the latest work, Fifty contribution to academia, to the Program has set high goals and John Evans, former Ambassador Armenian Studies (SAS). Prof. Years of Armenian Literature Armenian community, and to reached them, achieving great to the Republic of Armenia; Garo Der Mugrdechian serves as the in France, and earlier works the lives of every student who success in all of its projects and Paylan, Member of the Turkish President of SAS, while Dr. such as Armenian Poetry of Our pursues Armenian studies. undertakings. Parliament; and many other La Porta serves as the Editor Time, David of Sassoun: Critical With all the progress that has Some of the Program’s most scholars and political leaders. of the Journal of the Society of Studies on the Armenian Epic, been made within these 40 years, notable achievements are: • Hye Sharzhoom, established Armenian Studies. and Vahan Tekeyan: Selected it will be interesting to see what • The Program has 131 alumni in 1979, is the oldest regularly • The Armenian Studies Poem. new projects and initiatives the who have completed their minors published Armenian student Program hosts conferences, With passionate and Program will pursue next. “Today, in Armenian Studies and more newspaper anywhere in the world. lectures, and symposia. Over the accomplished scholars together with my colleagues Dr. than 12,000 students who have Staffed by students, with Prof. past forty years, the Program spearheading the department and La Porta, and Prof. Ohanessian, taken one or more course offered Der Mugrdechian as advisor, has hosted an average ten events immense support from the Fresno I feel that we are continuing to by the Program. “Through strong Hye Sharzhoom has a worldwide per semester, which are open community, it is no wonder that make great strides,” said Prof. community support, we now readership of more than 5,000 to students and the public. the Program includes so many Der Mugrdechian. As for the offer highly popular courses people. “We have established a link unique components and features. first director, Dr. Kouymjian in General Education, and our • The Program has organized between the community and the “Our Program is one of the most takes pride in observing the student body—regardless of their numerous exhibits, such as university, thereby enriching the prestigious and active Programs successes of ASP from Paris. “It ethnic background—learns about the International Exhibition of community through our outreach in the world, and this success is encouraging to just sit back the heritage, culture, and history Armenian Architecture, an exhibit and lecture series,” said Prof. is based on two fundamental and observe how the program of Armenians,” said Dr. Saúl on the 500th Anniversary of Der Mugrdechian. Thousands of factors: we have renowned gets better and better,” said Dr. Jiménez-Sandoval. Armenian Printing, a Centennial community members and students professors who have dedicated Kouymjian. • Many significant Armenian exhibit on the Armenian have attended and benefitted from their lives to the success and The Armenian Studies community figures have visited the Genocide, and more. the events. vibrancy of the Program, and Program will celebrate its 40th campus and given presentations. • Every year an internationally • The Armenian Studies we have an amazing community Anniversary at their Annual Among those are His Holiness recognized scholar in Armenian Program manages more than that values the memory of history Banquet on Sunday, March 19, Karekin II, Catholicos of All Studies is invited to teach for one twenty scholarship funds, and the vision this provides to 2017. Armenians; His Holiness Aram semester at Fresno State, through established by Armenian donors, the individual,” said Dr. Saúl You can visit their website I, Catholicos of the Holy See the Henry S. Khanzadian Kazan which are available to Fresno Jiménez-Sandoval. at http://fresnostate.edu/ of Cilicia; John Kirakossian, Visiting Professorship. This year State students. An estimated It is clear that since its artshum/armenianstudies/ and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the the Program hosts its 13th Kazan $70,000 is awarded annually in inception, the Armenian Studies connect through Facebook Armenian SSR; Peter Balakian, Visiting Professor. scholarships and grants to more Program has continued to expand https://www.facebook.com/ Pulitzer Prize-Winning author; • Two of the ASP faculty than 50 students studying in the its roles and responsibilities to ArmenianStudiesFresnoState/ Bako Sahakyan, President of the are members of the Executive Program. share knowledge about Armenian and Twitter at @armstudiesfs. 8 Hye Sharzhoom October 2016 On April 24, Paylan referenced the Armenians in Parliament Armenian Studies Program who had been killed in 1915. His fellow MPs, who considered November Events him to be the first Armenian in Parliament, were astonished that there had been Armenians in The Fresno premiere screening such positions a century earlier. of Paylan touched on the reason for this ignorance in his recollection “If Only Everyone” of his high school history class. His instructor told the class that Armenians were traitors and had Friday, November 4, 2016 to leave the country because of it. However, Paylan does not blame 5:30PM the Turkish people. “They are not

Photo: Hourig Attarian guilty. The system educated them Garo Paylan, center, visited the Armenian Genocide Monu- with this lie for three generations. in conjunction with CineCulture ment at Fresno State after his presentation. Turkey was established on this lie, Peters Educational Center Auditorium which is leading to new crimes.” (West end of the Save Mart Center) Paylan, From Page 1 Paylan touched on these people that something bad had Free admission. Free parking. arriving at Fresno State as a guest happened in this land, without more recent crimes in discussing of the Armenian Studies Program needing to call it genocide, and Erdogan’s oppressive campaign to share his unique perspective because of that crime, all of us against the Kurds. According “Armenian Educational Life on current events in Turkey. are suffering. Then they took him to Paylan, Erdogan is taking in Lebanon: The program was organized as a from us as well.” advantage of the attempted dialogue between Prof. Barlow Dink’s assassination in 2007 coup to persecute those who Haigazian University” Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La deepened Paylan’s frustration, oppose him. Paylan stated that Porta, Paylan, and the audience. and he became more entrenched Erdogan replaced a number of Dr. Paul Haidostian democratically elected mayors Paylan began his presentation in his Armenian identity. It was President, Haigazian University by describing his childhood as an in this pain that he noticed Turks in the eastern provinces with Armenian growing up in Turkey and Kurds were also angered governors. and the road that led him to become by Dink’s death and desired According to Paylan, an advocate for democratic justice. “When I noticed that I Erdogan’s harsh treatment of Monday, November 14, 2016 • 7:30PM principles. Paylan remembered was suffering because of Dink, the Kurds only exacerbates the that his first awareness of the I realized that a lot of people problem and results in more University Business Center, Room 191 Genocide came when he asked were suffering alongside me. I Kurds taking up arms for their Free admission. Free parking with parking code. his grandmother if she ever had wanted to take care of all of the rights. “It is a vicious cycle of siblings. He would ask her several minorities who suffered. So I Turks persecuting Kurds and “The Tale of Two Midwives: times, but she would always grow went into politics and we started Kurds going to the mountains to silent. Finally, an uncle hinted to a party that believes in equality.” fight. Parliament is the place to The Notebooks Paylan that “something bad had Paylan helped to form the solve the problems. I have buried of Siphora and Nuritza happened.” Paylan realized this Peoples’ Democratic Party with too many people.” Shnorhokian of Aintab, “something bad” still affected liberals of all backgrounds. It In response to a question the present when he was called was this solidarity among Kurds, about what the Diaspora could 1890-1930” giaour, or infidel, in the streets. Turks, and Armenians who do to support his efforts, Paylan “I realized there was something believed in democratic ideals reminded the audience that he Dr. Khatchig Mouradian bad about my identity, and I grew that tempered his anger and lead is also part of the Diaspora. Kazan Visiting Professor angry about what happened to my him to activism. Paylan’s party “I am from Malatia. You are ancestors.” Streets with names actively advocates for the rights my relatives, so we are living Wednesday, November 30, 2016 • 7:30PM such as “Talaat” and “Enver of minorities and is the only in the diaspora as well. Our University Business Center, Room 191 Pasha” were constant reminders party in Turkey that has formally responsibility is the same; we Free admission. Free parking with parking code. about what happened to his acknowledged the Armenian have to do this together.” people, and further fueled his Genocide. Paylan’s visit to the U.S. has courageously fighting for the face to this struggle and rallied frustration. Paylan stressed that the only been instrumental in bridging rights of Armenians, Kurds, and Armenians around the world in Paylan described the fear that way for Turkey to recognize the the divide between Armenians every other oppressed people support of his dream for a free Armenians in Turkey felt when Armenian Genocide is if the in Turkey and the Diaspora. He in Turkey. His visit gave a and democratic Turkey. it came to discussing their past. nation becomes a true democracy. noted that Diasporan Armenians “We had to be silent. Whenever It is through Parliament that are often ashamed of those who Thank You Donors we raised our voices about this Paylan hopes to bring about remained in Turkey for not being Mr. & Mrs. Russell Adams Fresno terrible wound in our hearts, change. He drew parallels vocal enough about their heritage. Sam & Annette Apelian Studio City something bad would happen.” between his goals and those of “Sometimes we had to be silent. Richard Asadoorian Bend, OR His meeting with Hrant Dink Armenians in Parliament before It’s so hard to be an Armenian in in memory of mother Araxie Ashjian would alter the course of his life. the Genocide; “they only asked for that fascist land where we suffer.” David Sarkis Barsamian Pasadena “Dink had the courage to tell the their rights; for local democracy.” Paylan and the HDP are Tarjian Bedoian Sanger in memory of Harriet Bedoian Dr. Marlene Breu Kalamazoo, MI HYE SHARZHOOM Karl DeKlotz Fresno Mary Hokokian Fresno NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Paul Jamushian Arlington, VA Paulette Janian-Melkonian Fresno Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. in memory Genocide survivor Haigouhie Kojababian Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with aka Alice Janian donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of Mary Kachadoorian Clovis increased mailing costs. Rev. Vartan & Danna Kasparian Visalia in memory of Rose Megerian Haigaz Kinoian Fresno Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation Alice Koligian Fresno of: $ Ron Krikorian Fowler Gladys Peters Fresno Name: Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno John & Cindy Rettig Clovis Gladys, George, and Rose Samuelian Fresno Address: City: State: Zip: in memory of Nevart Antaramian Garbis & Seta Sariyan Albuquerque, NM Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Charles & Mary Tateosian Walnut Creek Armenian Studies Program Mrs. Alice Vartanian, Philip, California State University, Fresno Steven, Gail, Brian, Justin, and Holly Vartanian Fresno Christine Vartanian Datian and John C. Datian Las Vegas 5245 N. Backer Ave PB4 in loving memory of our beloved and devoted husband, father, and Fresno CA 93740-8001 grandfather, Mr. Arthur Vartanian