Month: June 2022

Applications are open for the second annual ANCA Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy is set for August 1st to 5th, 2022

Enrollment Open for August 1st–5th Haroutioun & Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy 

WASHINGTON—Armenian American high schoolers and rising university first-year students are invited to apply for the second annual Armenian National Committee of America Haroutioun & Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy, a week-long program introducing future leaders to advocacy and career opportunities in the nation’s capital.

The week-long program will take place from August 1 to 5, 2022. Applications are available online and must be submitted by June 30th.

“The ANCA is thrilled to welcome the best and brightest Armenian American high schoolers to Washington, D.C. for an intensive one-week session to learn pro-Artsakh/Armenia federal advocacy best practices, explore future career opportunities, and make friends for life,” said ANCA Programs Director Alex Manoukian. “The Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy’s innovative program will open up exciting new academic and professional horizons for these students.”

Summer Academy participants, ages 17 to 19, are chosen based on a rigorous application process focusing on academic excellence and proven pro-Artsakh/Armenia efforts through groups, including the Armenian Youth Federation, Armenian churches and organizations, schools, student groups, and individual initiatives. 

Members of the inaugural 2021 ANCA Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy The determined participants of the 2021 ANCA Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy on Capitol Hill

ANCA Summer Academy participants will stay at the ANCA Aramian House, a landmark property in downtown Washington, D.C. which serves as the home and permanent headquarters of the ANCA’s signature youth programs. The Aramian House is named in honor of the late community leader and philanthropist Martha Aramian of Providence, Rhode Island.

During the inaugural session of the program in 2021, Summer Academy participants explored Armenia and Artsakh’s diplomatic challenges and opportunities in discussions with former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans and Artsakh Representative to the U.S. Robert Avetisyan. Big Whig Media founders Ken and Keith Nahigian discussed the broader Washington, D.C. political media scene and effective communication strategies during a tour of their state-of-the-art multi-media studio located just blocks from the White House. Battling Armenian Genocide denial in academic and community settings took center stage during a discussion with Dr. Khatchig Mouradian, the Armenia and Georgia Area Specialist at the Library of Congress.

During the 2021 program, the ANCA’s Washington, D.C. team focused on teaching best practices in Armenian American grassroots advocacy, with interactive sessions on the organization’s 360-degree agenda to defend Artsakh safety and security, promote stronger U.S.-Armenia ties, secure justice for the Armenian Genocide and support at-risk diasporan Armenian communities in the Middle East and around the world.  Summer academy participants were also introduced to a wide range of career opportunities on Capitol Hill, international development, advocacy, and consulting by accomplished Armenian Americans in each of the areas.

“It was an honor to participate in the ANCA Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy,” said 2021 Summer Academy alumna Vana Dakarian, from Elgin, IL. “In just five short days, we spoke with professionals, learned about advocating for the Armenian Cause, and explored careers in politics, policy, and media. I encourage all Armenian youth to participate in this one-of-a-kind opportunity, to learn, explore the nation’s capital, and form great friendships,” she added.

Garni Khanzadian, who was an incoming freshman at University of California, Riverside, concurred.  “After the Artsakh War in 2020, many Armenian youth were left feeling helpless, and this program opened my eyes to all the things we can do to help our brothers and sisters. The guests who spoke to us during this trip came from all different backgrounds, and we got a chance to listen to so many stories about them helping to spread the Armenian Cause. Thanks to the Haroutioun & Elizabeth Kasparian Summer Academy, I met lifelong friends from all over the country, and made memories that will last forever.”

The ANCA Summer Academy is named in honor of Haroutioun and Elizabeth Kasparian in recognition of their lifetime of selfless service and sacrifice for the Armenian community and cause, through a generous grant by their daughter and son-in-law, Arsho and Adour Aghjayan, and grandson, Nareg. It is the latest in the series of youth empowerment and career development programs including the Leo Sarkisian Internship Program, Hovig Apo Saghdejian Capital Gateway Program, Maral Melkonian Avetisyan Fellowship, and the ANCA Rising Leaders Program – which features the Lucine Kouchakdjian Capitol Hill Day.

To learn more about the ANCA’s youth and career services programs, visit the website.

BY KATY SIMONIAN

“You are stars and the world is watching you. By your presence you send a message to every village, every city, every nation. A message of hope. A message of victory.” Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s words echo through eternity and continue to create a ripple effect for families in America and across the world. As the founder of the Special Olympics, she shared her vision of inclusion with the world, opening hearts and minds to the powerful gifts of a community that had long been kept in the shadow.

Homenetmen Western US Region is a shining of example of an organization that has embraced the vision of the Special Olympics in the creation of Hrashq, a program for athletes with special needs, that empowers all participants to reach their full potential. With a unique coaching system, tailored for the needs of every child, Hrashq inspires all people by building skills and confidence in young athletes, providing them with socialization and inclusion opportunities, while combating the stigma often associated with certain disabilities.

For members, Hrashq, which means “Miracle,” is an opportunity to create a valuable resource of support for parents and children alike, as they meet the challenges of life with a grace and dignity that is inherent in the spirit of Homenetmen’s motto, “Elevate Yourself and Others with You.”

The story of Hrashq, began back in 2018, when founding member Dr. Nanor Kabakian joined a group of parents who sought to create an outlet for their children to participate in athletic activities and be part of an Armenian organization. Prior to this juncture, she served as the facilitator of the Armenian Parents Support Group of the Lanterman Regional Center, which unites parents who share the difficult journey of raising a child with special needs, offering presentations and invaluable resources to enable them to better advocate for their rights.

Homenetmen Hrashq participants at a previous year’s Navasartian Games

One fateful day three months prior to the Navasartian Games, she approached Homenetmen’s leaders with the prospect of having a booth at the Games. Their conversation led to a transformative idea – having athletes with special needs participate in the 43^rd Navasartian Games on the occasion of the Homenetmen Centennial.  Without hesitation, Homenetmen’s Western Regional Executive Board gave the concept the green light, forming a committee whose mission it was to plan Hrashq’s first participation in the Navasartian Games by providing the athletes with all the accommodations needed to make their historic debut a success. Their mission was fulfilled, as the first group of Hrashq athletes participated in competitions and the Parade of Champions, a highlight of the annual Navasartian Closing Ceremonies.

“Our goal is to inspire our Armenian community to appreciate Hrashq, as we can learn so much from the perseverance of our young athletes and their families. Their dedication stands in alignment with Homenetmen’s guiding principles. The work we do helps all people and contributes to our shared belief in public service,” says Dr. Kabakian, who is a proud parent of a Hrashq athlete.

The program quickly jumped from 20 athletes to 50 and has benefited from the leadership of an Adaptive Physical Education Teacher, Dave Beard, who has created specific lesson plans for each individual student, a feat that sets Hrashq apart from other programs in its commitment to excellence. Athletes receive one-on-one support from volunteers, including parents, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, Homenetmen members, and AYF Sardarabad Pyunic Basketball Committee members. Hrashq also welcomes student volunteers from Armenian schools in the greater Los Angeles area, many of whom aspire to pursue careers in speech and physical therapy, as well as advocacy for children with physical and intellectual disabilities.

“In five short years and in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Hrashq has continued to thrive under the gracious leadership of parents and Homenetmen members who are committed to ensuring the program’s success,” says Hagop Tufenkjian, Chairman of Homenetmen’s Regional Executive Committee. “We are proud of our Hrashq athletes and are grateful for their presence in the Homenetmen family,” he added.

One of the most influential figures to support Hrashq’s noble mission is State Senator Anthony J. Portantino, who secured a grant of $100,000 to support Homenetmen’s many programs including Hrashq.

As a champion of the Armenian community, Senator Portantino’s commitment was inspired by his own experiences. “Years ago, I took a friend’s son who had special needs to Disneyland and had the best time. While my daughter was running from ride to ride, my friend’s son stopped to appreciate the magic of every moment. It was a tremendously emotional experience that I can never forget and makes me smile when I think of it,” he says. “I get the same positive feelings from Hrashq and it’s so exciting to see it grow and touch so many people. It has been a pleasure and blessing to support the children of Hrashq. I can think of no better organization to get behind because the children and families are truly miraculous,” he added.

Perhaps the impact of Hrashq is best expressed in the words of one of its athletes, Nanor’s son, Aren Zakarian. His acrostic poem speaks to the heart of Homenetmen’s mission to preserve our tradition of public service. Below is Aren’s poem:

Hrashq

Hope is what everyone needs

Respect is what everyone deserves

Armenian is what we are

Special is what we feel

Human is how we should be treated

Quest for the best is what we seek

Aren wrote his poem when he was only nine years old. He is now 12 and thriving, as are so many Hrashq athletes who benefit from the program and most significantly, being part of an Armenian community that celebrates their achievements.

Hrashq athletes are not defined by their physical and intellectual disabilities. They are applauded for the unique light they bring to the world. Only the brightest stars can enlighten hearts and minds, as they replace fear with hope. They are more than champions. They are heroes who show us what is possible and inspire us with their bravery, strength and determination. Their smiles are a sign of true victory, as their presence in Hrashq has united so many families with a renewed faith in a community that has embraced them.

Hrashq and its extraordinary members will be celebrated at the 45^th Navasartian Victory Ball on Sunday, June 26 at The Beverly Hilton, and will participate in the 2022 Navasartian Games and Closing Ceremonies which commence on Fourth of July weekend, July 1-3 at Los Angeles City College.

Hrashq’s mission of inclusion is gaining new ground, as athletes with special needs will compete with their neurotypical peers, breaking barriers and building bridges across our community at this year’s Navasartian Track and Field competition. It should be noted that many of the program’s volunteers are the same age as the athletes they work with, a poignant distinction that offers all children the opportunity to elevate one another through building friendships and gaining a more profound understanding of the human spirit.

With the recent announcement that Hrashq athletes will be represented in the Pan-Homenetmen competition taking place in Armenia this July, it is clear the future is bright and indeed victorious for all of our athletes.

Homenetmen’s ultimate victory is making sure that all Hrashq athletes walk through life with a deep sense of confidence that comes from knowing they are seen, heard, valued, admired and most of all, loved.

For more information about Hrashq and Homenetmen’s many programs, please visit the Navasartian Games website or call (323) 344-4300.

Katy Simonian is a member of the 45^th Navasartian Victory Ball Committee.

The Society for Armenian Studies recently announced the recipients of its Spring 2022 Graduate Research and Conference Grants.

The three recipients are Atineh Movsesian, for her research exploring the role of women as patrons at the Gandzasar monastery; Ani Ohanian for her research on the collaboration between Bolsheviks and Kemalists in the South Caucasus region between 1917 and 1923; and Arev Papazian for her research examining the conflictual relationship between environmentalism and the labor and livelihoods of communities around Lake Sevan.

Each recipient received a $1,000 grant awarded by the Society. 

Movsesian’s research focuses on the immediate social context of the Gandzasar monastery, an important religious and cultural center in the Republic of Artsakh, by examining its construction and the impact made by women. She explores the role of Khorishah, patron and mother of Prince Hasan-Jalal Dawla, by studying her “literary depiction in the foundation inscription of the church” and “her depiction within the sculptural program on the church drum.”

In considering female patronage of the thirteenth century, Movsesian’s research follows and builds upon that of Antony Eastmond and Zaroui Pogossian, who have explored the role of noblewomen in shaping the visual culture of the medieval Caucasus. She is a current second-year graduate student in the department of History of Art and Architecture at Tufts University.

“This generous support will enable me to travel and present my research at the ‘Beyond Exceptionalism II’ conference at the John Rylands Library in Manchester, United Kingdom,” said Movsesian in regard to the grant’s impact on her research. “In these uncertain times, it is important to advocate for the endangered Armenian monuments. Therefore, I am thankful to the Society for Armenian Studies for granting me the opportunity to speak at this conference, which will also culminate in an edited volume,” she added.

Ani Ohanian’s research looks to address the collaboration between Bolsheviks and Kemalists in the South Caucasus region between 1917 and 1923. “Bolshevik ambivalence towards the Armenian people and Bolshevik ideology itself as inherently violent, led not only to cooperation with Turkish revolutionaries, but also to support of atrocities against Armenians,” she explained.

Ohanian examines the separation of Artsakh from Armenian territory came due to Turkish pressure after the Bolshevik conquest of the South Caucasus. Additionally, her research looks towards proving how these relations and collaboration led to such decisions, created the grounds for future conflict and its relation to the recent developments in Artsakh.

Ohanian is a doctoral candidate in the department of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University. The grant will allow her to travel to Istanbul, Turkey and carry out her research project at the Social History Research Foundation of Turkey, where she will access Turkish Communist Party archives. “Despite my extensive time abroad, I have never had the opportunity to travel to Turkey and I thank SAS for assisting me, not only to access documents crucial for my dissertation project, but also to connect with Armenian history in a more profound way,” said Ohanian.

Arev Papazian carries out her ethnographic research on the conflictual relationship between environmentalism and the labor and livelihoods of communities, who contribute to and are negatively impacted by environmental change.

She utilizes participant observation, informal conversations, interviews, archival research in media and legal documents, and discourse analysis to understand the relationship between Armenia’s Lake Sevan and local communities by looking into “the dialectical relationship between the ecological change of the lake, the labor and livelihood of the fishing communities, the impact of environmentalism and capitalist relations, and the cultural production of environmentalism.”

Papazian is a doctoral candidate in the department of Sociology and Social Anthropology at the Central European University. “The fellowship will be a great support to me and an important motivation to move forward with my research and contribute to the efforts of expanding the field of Armenian studies by incorporating into it pressing themes in contemporary Armenia, such as environmentalism and labor,” said Papazian.

SAS President Bedross Der Matossian congratulated all three awardees: “We are proud to fund such excellent graduate students. The nature and the depth of their work demonstrates the multi-disciplinary aspect of Armenian Studies as a field of inquiry. I would like to encourage all those who are interested in the activities of SAS to help us financially so we can support such promising young scholars to achieve their goal.”

The Society of Armenian Studies is an international body, composed of scholars and students, whose aims are to promote the study of Armenian culture and society, including history, language, literature, and social, political, and economic questions; to facilitate the exchange of scholarly information pertaining to Armenian studies around the world; and to sponsor panels and conferences on Armenian studies.

The SAS Graduate Research and Conference Grants were made possible through the generous institutional support of the Armenian Studies Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; the Meghrouni Family Presidential Chair in Armenian Studies, University of California, Irvine; the Hovannisian Chair of Modern Armenian History, University of California, Los Angeles; the Arthur H. Dadian and Ara Oztemel Chair of Armenian Art & Architecture, Tufts University; the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR); the Armenian Communities Department, Gulbenkian Foundation; the Armenian Studies Program, California State University, Fresno; the Institute of Armenian Studies, University of Southern California; AGBU Nubar Library, Paris, the The Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, and the UCLA Promise Armenian Institute.

For those interested in contributing to support the SAS Graduate Research and Conference Grant fund, please contact Prof. Bedross Der Matossian at [email protected].