Dr. Razmig Panossian is greeted by attendees

The Kessab Educational Association of Los Angeles hosted a special gathering on March 6 to welcome one of its beloved sons, Dr. Razmig Panossian, who met with fellow Kessabtsis during his visit to Los Angeles. Community members gathered for an evening of conversation focused on Armenian language, identity and the future of Diaspora communities.

Dr. Panossian, who works with the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in Portugal, spoke about the foundation’s work supporting Armenian cultural and educational initiatives across the Diaspora. He emphasized that language remains one of the most important pillars of Armenian identity and encouraged families to keep Armenian present in everyday life by speaking it regularly at home.

He noted that while Eastern and Western Armenian serve as the principal forms used throughout, regional dialects such as Kessaberen carry deep historical and cultural value. Preserving these dialects, he explained, helps maintain the unique character and traditions of communities like Kessab. He also encouraged parents not to worry about correcting children between dialects, but rather to prioritize speaking Armenian and creating an environment where the language continues naturally.

Dr. Panossian also highlighted educational initiatives that support Armenian language learning, including the Zarmanazan Western Armenian summer program, an immersive program that brings together youth, educators and participants from Armenian communities around the world. Through creative activities, collaborative learning and teacher training, the program creates a dynamic environment where Western Armenian is actively used while strengthening connections among participants and helping develop the next generation of Armenian language educators.

He concluded by noting that strong Armenian communities are built through education, cultural engagement and the continued effort to preserve language and heritage across generations.

The evening provided an opportunity for Kessabtsis to reconnect with their roots and reaffirm their shared commitment to sustaining Armenian culture within the Diaspora.

The Kessab Educational Association of Los Angeles promotes education, cultural preservation and community engagement among Kessabtsis and the broader Armenian Diaspora through programs and initiatives that strengthen Armenian identity and heritage.

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