Month: February 2020

LOS ANGELES—The Philos Project, Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region, Assyrian American Association of Southern California, American Hellenic Council, and Councilmember Paul Krekorian hosted renowned Israeli professor Benny Morris to present his groundbreaking book “The Thirty-Year Genocide: Turkey’s Destruction of its Christian Minorities.”

Professor Morris’ research is the first of its kind to frame the genocide of the Ottoman Empire’s indigenous Christian minorities as a continual process from 1894 to 1924. Where scholarship on the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek genocide has tended to examine the act of genocide in isolation, Morris’ research has synthesized the narratives of Christian persecution in the Ottoman Empire – from the Hamidian Massacres to Ataturk’s establishment of the Republic of Turkey – to demonstrate how genocide had been institutionalized over the span of three decades.

A former professor at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Goldman Visiting Israeli Professor in Georgetown’s Department of Government, Professor Morris has led a distinguished career in academia, where he has been recognized for his work on the Arab-Israeli and Israeli-Palestinian conflicts.

The discussion with Professor Morris, which was hosted in the Tom Bradley room of Los Angeles City Hall, was moderated by Robert Nicholson, Founder and Executive Director of the Philos Project. Nicholson founded Philos in 2014 to promote positive engagement in the Middle East amongst Christian leaders to advance freedom and justice on the ground.

The event brought together members of Southern California’s Armenian, Greek, Assyrian, and Jewish communities on the heels of the historic recognition of the Armenian, Greek, and Assyrian genocides by the U.S. House and Senate last year.

“With the momentous victory of genocide recognition by Congress as a matter of official U.S. policy, this timely event sought to unite our communities together in both the solemn remembrance of this dark chapter in history and a commitment to ensuring this great crime will never be repeated,” said Armen Sahakyan, Executive Director of the ANCA Western Region. “In examining the systemic factors that informed the Ottoman-era genocides, and examining genocide not as an isolated incident, but a continuous and institutionalized process, we are able to better equip ourselves in identifying and combatting contemporary cases of genocide.”

“Author Benny Morris’s presentation was a powerful, meticulous, and enlightening discussion of the hidden genocide of Turkey’s Christian minorities between 1894 and 1924. Never before has an author presented this as a “Christian Genocide” of Armenians, Greeks, and Assyrian communities. Historically accurate and factually presented, the book and Benny Morris’s presentation chronicles the organized destruction of all three communities from Ottoman Sultans to modern Turkey,” said AHC President, Dr. James F. Dimitrou. “Furthermore, this historic event highlights our new coalition with the determination to work together to counter continued Turkish propaganda that denies the destruction of all three Christian Communities. Together we finally will proclaim the truth! Together we will challenge the dangerous Turkish positions. Together we will work through a new coalition of truth and justice,” he concluded.

“Events like last Monday’s insightful talk by Benny Morris serve as the most recent example of cross-community efforts with our Armenian and Greek brothers and sisters,” said Peter Warda, President of the Assyrian American Association of Southern California. “We cannot stress how invaluable it is to have a collective voice in solidarity with communities affected by genocide and persecution, thereby speaking truth to power through education, awareness, and advocacy initiatives.”

“A few people ask me why we hosted an event about something that happened a hundred years ago,” said Philos Founder and President Robert Nicholson. “I give two reasons. First, any future American engagement in the Near East must begin by understanding what happened in the past. Second, the spirit that gave rise to the Turkish genocide still haunts the region and must be confronted by a coalition of peoples and faiths who believe that Jews, Christians, and Muslims belong there,” he added.

“It is entirely fitting that two Israeli Jews, Benny Morris and Dror Ze’evi, produced such groundbreaking scholarship on a Christian catastrophe. Through their research – and their mere existence as fellow Near Eastern minorities – they prove that goodwill between different religious communities is not only possible but already present,” concluded Nicholson.

In attendance included Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Amb. Nina Hachigian, representatives from the offices of California State Senator Anthony Portantino and Assemblymember Laura Friedman, the inaugural Chair of Modern Armenian Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles Professor Richard Hovannissian, and others.

The event – emceed by Juliana Taimoorazy – was formally opened by the representatives of each of the partner organizations, including the President of the American Hellenic Council Dr. James F Dimitriou, the newly-minted President of the Assyrian American Association of Southern California Peter Warda, and the ANCA Western Region Executive Director Armen Sahakyan.

The Philos Project is a dynamic leadership community dedicated to promoting positive Christian engagement in the Middle East. This community is centered on a growing network of city-based chapters located in North America and around the world. Philos equips a new generation of Western Christians to support friends in the region who share our vision for pluralism. They offer educational resources, immersive travel programs, and networking and advocacy opportunities that help Christian leaders understand and engage with important Middle East issues and support innovative projects that help advance liberty and justice on the ground.

The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region is the largest and most influential nonpartisan Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANCA-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues in pursuit of the Armenian Cause.

The American Hellenic Council is a non-partisan political advocacy organization. Our goal is to promote democracy, human rights, peace, and stability in Southern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean, with an emphasis on Greece and Cyprus, by informing the American public and the government about on-going issues and conflicts in the area.

Founded in 1964, The Assyrian American Association of Southern California is a nonpartisan organization whose broad mission is to serve and advance the Assyrian-American community by concentrating on a wide spectrum of areas such as cultural and linguistic identity, public/governmental outreach and advocacy, education, arts/literature, youth services, and many others.

FRESNO—“Roving Revolutionaries: Armenians and the Connected Revolutions in the Russian, Iranian, and Ottoman Worlds” will be the topic of discussion during Dr. Houri Berberian’s presentation at California State University, Fresno. The talk will be held on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the University Business Center, Alice Peters Auditorium, on the Fresno State campus, located at 5241 N Maple Ave, Fresno, CA 93740. Dr. Berberian is Professor of History, Meghrouni Family Presidential Chair in Armenian Studies, and Director of the Program in Armenian Studies at the University of California, Irvine.

The presentation is part of the Spring 2020 Lecture Series of the Armenian Studies Program and is supported by the Leon S. Peters Foundation.

Three of the formative revolutions that shook the early 20th century world occurred almost simultaneously in regions bordering each other. Though the Russian, Iranian, and Young Turk Revolutions all exploded between 1904 and 1911, they have never been studied through their linkages until now. “Roving Revolutionaries” probes the interconnected aspects of these three revolutions through the involvement of the Armenian revolutionaries – minorities in all of these empires – whose movements and participation within and across frontiers tell us a great deal about the global transformations that were taking shape. Exploring the geographical and ideological boundary crossings that occurred, this archivally grounded analysis of the circulation of revolutionaries, ideas, and print tells the story of peoples and ideologies in upheaval and collaborating with each other, and in so doing it illuminates our understanding of revolutions and movements.

Dr. Houri Berberian is the author of a number of articles and two books, “Armenians and the Iranian Constitutional Revolution of 1905-1911: The Love for Freedom Has No Fatherland” and, most recently, “Roving Revolutionaries: Armenians and Connected Revolutions in the Russian, Iranian, and Ottoman Worlds” (UC Press, 2019).

The lecture is free and open to the public. Free parking is available in Fresno State Lots P6 and P5, near the University Business Center, Fresno State. Parking permits are required, and a free parking code can be obtained from the Armenian Studies Program. Copies of “Roving Revolutionaries” will be available for purchase at the presentation.

For more information about the lecture please contact the Armenian Studies Program at 559.278.2669, visit Fresno State’s Armenian Studies Program website or visit their Facebook page at @ArmenianStudiesFresnoState.

BY HARRY DERDERIAN
From the Armenian Weekly

Mitch Kehetian. For so many, and for so many years, the name has meaning: whether you were in, or are in journalism circles in Greater Detroit, a member of the Detroit Armenian community, or read any of the Armenian papers. More people knew Mitch than he actually knew face to face.

For decades, his writings spoke volumes; his convictions were clear. A number of readers, over many years, knew Mitch and his sense of the truth and what was right not only for his Greater Detroit newspaper community, but for the Armenian cause. Mitch’s work was broadly respected. His crystal clear thinking reflected a keen mind and transparency; his opinion was sought.

A sense of responsibility, accountability, and of American and Armenian patriotism underlined the profession and thinking of this Wayne State University graduate.

Mitch was and will be remembered as a renowned journalist and editor and a spirited American patriot. His commentary in Detroit area newspapers carried meaning and respect; his many years of articles in Armenian press reflected his proud sense of being an Armenian patriot.

His last column for the Armenian Weekly—after many decades of contributions—was printed in July 2019. The subject was the historical Detroit Armenian neighborhood from years back: Delray. What else!

In the community, Mitch was a leader in the formation of the Nor Keghi Association, a gathering of spirited community members from that ancestral region who raise funds to benefit the schoolchildren of Nor Keghi. He also assisted on many April 24 committees in preparing materials for the media. To many, Mitch’s William Saroyan “look alike” was uncanny.

Mitch’s book “Giants of the Earth”—a journal about family and history in the Keghi region and historic Armenia—was an extension of his soul, a yearning to fully and physically embrace his roots, his “search” for his father’s sister while walking the land of his father and family.

When discussing the genocide or speaking of Armenia’s independence, Mitch’s voice would reflect conviction. The twinkle in his blue eyes would reflect passion.

Quiet and unassuming in nature, Mitch’s powerful heart and energy were devoted to his “four angels”: wife Rose, daughters Grace, Janet, and Karen; cherished grandchildren Melanie, Stephen, John, and Michael; his deceased brother Nash’s daughter Sharon and family (Broglin) who became very meaningful to Mitch, and to the Armenian Cause.

Mitch started his newspaper career as a copy boy in 1953—moving quickly to reporter—with the Detroit Times and was with the paper until its demise in 1960.

Kehetian joined the ranks of retirement on November 18, 2005 from the Macomb Daily, a suburban Detroit daily newspaper where he served as editorial page editor. Previously he held posts of city editor, managing editor, and editor-in-chief with the paper.

Previously, Mitch held reporting and editorial posts with the Columbus, Ohio Citizen-Journal, Daily Eagle (Western Wayne County – Michigan), and East Side Newspapers-Community News in Detroit.

From his 2005 retirement to the end of 2019, he wrote op-ed pieces for the Macomb Daily. This is not bestowed on many who retire from journalism. Mitch had become an institution, a pillar of credibility. “I love Macomb County,” he would say with that “Mitch twinkle” in his eyes.

Truth in reporting and the public’s right to know what could affect them were paramount to this true professional. “Government and the press are accountable to the people,” he would say with his trademark conviction.

Mitch had presence in any room he walked into. He had professionalism and class.

Mitch’s respect and influence in Macomb County were sought by countless political leaders over the years: U.S. Rep. Jim O’Hara, Senator Carl Levin, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, U.S. Rep. Candice Martin and a string of governors from both parties. He was even appointed as a Trustee of Central Michigan University by Gov. James Blanchard.

Does anyone remember the White House press conference when Mitch asked President Reagan about the Genocide? Reagan’s response was a “yes,” confirming his proclamation on Armenian and Cambodian genocides. Add to that lunches at the White House, no matter who the President was.

In no uncertain terms, and for decades, Mitch would bring up congressional Genocide recognition to all those in the Michigan congressional delegation. His voice was heard. A most credible Michigan journalist spoke for past family members and his people.

Every April 24 when working and after retiring, Mitch would write an editorial about the Armenian Genocide.

If Mitch had a favorite among those in politics, it would be the Boniors. Ed Bonior was a local community activist, community leader and once mayor of East Detroit. His son US Rep. David Bonior was House of Representatives Democratic Majority Whip and a substantial leadership voice for the Armenian Cause for more than 20 years. He led the movement that one year saw the U.S. House pass the Genocide resolution. Mitch covered both for the Macomb paper. Mitch’s father and Ed Bonior were also lifelong friends, the foundation for a meaningful lifetime family relationship.

Although he had the opportunity to join the ranks of reporters in either of the larger Detroit Free Press or Detroit News publications, he preferred the small town papers. “I like small towns and small town personalities,” he would say. “It is more people-oriented. Reporting is about people, very recognizable and personal in small towns.”

In 2006, in recognition of 52 years as an outstanding newspaper reporter, editor, and leader in journalism, Mitch was awarded Wayne State University’s coveted Lifetime Achievement Award at the April 6 campus observance of Journalism Day. Being recognized in one’s profession—peer recognition—is the ultimate honor.

At the awards ceremony, Professor Ben Burns, director of the journalism program at Wayne State, praised Mitch’s career as a journalist, as one who practiced the tenets of truth in reporting and dedicated a lifespan in protecting the public’s right to know and serving the journalism community. “This award could very well be known as the Mitch Kehetian Award,” Burns concluded. In honoring Mitch, Burns addressed the newsman’s stellar service and leadership as president of the Detroit Chapter’s Society of Professional Journalists and Detroit Press Club.

Mitch said that the 52 years of his career placed him at the sidelines of community history (politics, business, social), and the award from Wayne State’s Department of Communication was an honor he treasured.

Mitch was named General Alexander Macomb Citizen of the Year by the March of Dimes in recognition of his support for the non-profit organization.

Funeral services for Mitch were held February 27 at St. Sarkis Church in Dearborn with Rev. Hrant Kevorkian officiating. In reflecting on his recent times with Mitch, Der Hayr noted, “During my weekly visits to Mitch in the past month, even at the time that he was weak, during our conversations, he kept passing along thoughts of Armenian American nationalistic spirit.” He continued, “I asked him what he thought and if he had something to say, and his response was: teach your children to be proud Armenian-Americans, take them to Armenia, let them know our history and heritage.”

“He asked me to make sure I pass his message to the AYF kids,” Der Hayr added. Sound advice from a former AYF chairman!

Mitch Kehetian: A profile of prestige and patriotism.

People like Mitch do not come along every day. We are thankful to have known him.

Harry Derderian is a native of Indian Orchard, Mass and resident of Farmington Hills, Mich. He is a member of the Marketing faculty at Eastern Michigan University as well as adjunct professor of marketing at University of Michigan-Dearborn and adjunct Professor of Business at Schoolcraft Community College.

GLENDALE—An energetic and excited crowd of young professionals convened in support of their mentor, colleague, fellow community activist and dear friend Elen Asatryan’s candidacy for Los Angeles County’s Democratic Central Committee. The event was held on Monday, February 24 at Eden on Brand’s chic rooftop bar.

The event was hosted by three of Asatryan’s former interns and mentees: Talar Khrlobian, Tatev Oganyan, and Tamar Thomassian. The three women are all accomplished professionals and leaders in their respective communities and all three credit Asatryan for providing unparalleled mentorship and coaching throughout their respective political advocacy, legal, and marketing careers. While more than a decade has passed since the three first met Elen, they have worked with her throughout the years on various causes and initiatives and are now, more than ever, inspired by Elen’s unwavering commitment to engaging civic participation in the community through her campaign.

Tatev Oganyan welcomed and thanked the guests for their continued support throughout Asatryan’s campaign, which kicked off on December 26, 2019. Oganyan, Khrlobian, and Thomassian each took to the microphone and voiced their admiration of Elen’s dedication to forging a truly inclusive Democratic Party that best reflects and advocates for its diverse constituency.

“Elen has this incredible talent to ignite a fire in all of us. Just looking around the room at all these people who have come together shows you how far her reach truly is. There is no limit to where Elen is going and I encourage you all to be part of her journey,” stated former ANCA-Glendale 2008 intern and now campaign manager/attorney Tatev Oganyan.

“I was really shy back in the day, and Elen took me out of my comfort zone. She is one of those people that pushes you. She will expand her resources to everybody. She will be fearless, she will care about our community, and she will take us to the next level and where we need to be,” expressed former ANCA-Glendale 2007 intern and now law student/real estate specialist Tamar Thomassian.

“I am a testament to Elen empowering young women to become stronger women. I was 15 when I walked into her office with my mom for my interview and I remember through that process her empowering me to go to my interviews alone and eventually having the confidence to face every milestone, in my career and my personal life, with the confidence to know that I could walk into a room without needing anything but myself and being okay with that,” shared former ANCA-Glendale 2008 intern and now business unit director Talar Khrlobian.

Asatryan was then invited to speak to the crowd who had all been mingling and sharing their personal connections with Elen, her work, and advocacy.

“I can’t help but feel a little emotional as I look around the room,” remarked Asatryan. “Many of you came through my office doors as interns and I have had the privilege of watching you all embark on successful careers and in turn become trailblazers in your communities. Your support means so much and I truly feel humbled that you are all helping my efforts to serve on a committee that I regard as crucially important for the future of our Democratic Party.”

Asatryan has been attending numerous hosted gatherings, both at the homes of supporters as well as in local coffee shops across the neighborhoods she frequents. Asatryan is committed to bolstering dialogue among not just herself and the attendees but among the attendees who might only be meeting one another for the first time.

The event served as the campaign’s final hosted gathering, though its buzz is still circulating on social media. Asatryan’s campaign staff and volunteers are actively canvassing and phone-banking during the stretch of active voting, which concludes on Tuesday, March 3 at 8:00 p.m. To help get the vote out, sign up or stop by the campaign headquarters at 440 W. Colorado St., Suite 211 in Glendale from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.

The election for the Democratic County Central Committee will take place on March 3. Early voting started on February 22 at 1,000 vote centers across L.A. County. Registered Democrats residing in State Assembly District 43 will see Asatryan’s name on their ballot.

For voters who have selected the option to vote by mail, ballots started arriving in mailboxes as of February 4. Elen Asatryan’s name may be found on page 3, 4, or 5 of the ballot.

For those not yet registered to vote, same-day voter registration is available in person at any vote center between February 22 to March 3. To register to vote, update voter information and political party preference, request a vote by mail ballot, or find your nearest vote center visit the website.

The DCCC is the official governing body of the Democratic Party in Los Angeles County. It is also the largest local Democratic Party entity in the United States, representing nearly 2.7 million Democrats in the 88 cities and the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County – a population larger than 42 individual states.

The 43rd State Assembly District encompasses the cities of Burbank, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta-Montrose, and parts of Los Angeles including Hollywood Hills, East Hollywood, Little Armenia, Franklin Hills, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and Atwater Village (90027, 90029, 90068 and most of 90039).

To learn more about, get involved in, and contribute to Asatryan’s campaign, visit the campaign’s website. For up to the minute updates, follow the campaign’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @ElectElen.

Svante Cornell is the director of the American Foreign Policy Council’s Central Asia-Caucasus Institute and co-founder of the Institute for Security and Development Policy. Cornell is the author, with Brenda Shaffer, of the report “Occupied Elsewhere: Selective Policies on Occupations, Protracted Conflicts, and Territorial Disputes,” published by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.