Author’s Note: This article would not have been possible without the support of my wife Sanan. Her vision provided direction for the piece, and I am grateful for her guidance.

The idea came to me one night when I was headed eastbound on the Queensborough Bridge. In an act of true coincidence, Nas came on my playlist as I passed over Queensborough. “Represent, represent…” he recited. I remember thinking, “Represent? Armenia? New York?” In the 20 minutes it took me to get to Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School and drive past our tri-color flag, the idea had already grown roots and was starting to blossom. I immediately called my wife, Sanan, to explain the vision and how Armenian-made baseball hats would be a great way for our diaspora to represent its hyphenated identities. 

As a diasporan-born Armenian, I find it critical to stay true to my heritage by preserving her art and history while finding respectful ways of collaborating with my American culture. In a world that is ever evolving, we as diasporans need to evolve with it without losing our ancestral values. As such, most of my artwork tends to highlight the pop-culture from both identities that helped shape me. The same goes for the “Marash League Baseball” hats that have been the ultimate collaboration and bridge between my Armenian and American cultures.

Before I explain the production process of these hats after my epiphanic ride through Queens, I should start with where my interest in Marash needlework stemmed from. Neither my mother nor father are from the Western Armenian city of Marash, and so my knowledge of the traditional artwork doesn’t come from home. Like most of us, I’ve seen this style of embroidery when visiting the homes of elder family friends who had either pillows or tablecloths laced with such intricate designs. I can say, with humility and ignorance, that in my younger years I associated such things with the older generation—irrelevant to my make-up. It’s safe to say I was wrong. 

It really wasn’t until I met my wife, Sanan, that I started to build an appreciation for the art of Marash needlework. On one of our earlier dates in New York City, she brought a rather vintage black clutch with her that was laced with gold yarns in beautiful patterns. That night she told me that the clutch belonged to her grandmother Aghavni Snabian from Beirut, Lebanon, and the intricate stitching found throughout the velvet façades of the clutch were indeed the traditional needlework of Marash. I was moved by her knowledge and appreciation of this nostalgic artwork, something I had never paid too much attention to. 

The author and his wife Sanan showcasing the New York City and San Francisco “Marash League Baseball” hats

I noticed that at any outing and event we attended where Sanan proudly held her vintage clutch, fellow admirers of the art would approach and ask in amazement whether it was indeed the work of Marash needlework. It dawned on me that Sanan’s meaningfully curated style of complementing ancestral tradition with modern fashion was the inspiration I needed in order to keep this Armenian artwork alive. But how?

Four years ago, my family and I started a private label manufacturing company called Lorens NYC, where we focus on producing quality and luxury apparel in Armenia. As a family, we have been in the garment industry for over six generations, except now we were focusing our attention away from the usual production sources of the world to solely manufacturing in Armenia. Currently, we are in various stages of sampling, manufacturing and shipping luxury apparel for brands such as Mackage, Khaite, Alexander Wang, KITH and Derek Lam. Aside from producing for such posh and luxe labels, we also represent several factories in Armenia that manufacture quality tee shirts, socks and hats. With that said, I knew that manufacturing the hats in Armenia was doable, but identifying a source to add the traditional needlework to the hats was going to be the real challenge. 

One day while scrolling through Instagram, I came across a story posted by my friend Patil Toutounjian, travel vlogger and founder of Tatik Streetwear. She was promoting her friend’s business, Arika Armenian Embroidery, which showcased several styles of traditional Armenian embroidery, all sewn onto objects such as wallets, Christmas ornaments, bags and much more. Nothing like your traditional pillowcase and tablecloth, this was a new take on the old tradition, something that I related to and needed to pursue. After speaking with Patil about this idea, she happily introduced me to Ayda Santourian Degirmenjian, founder and expert embroiderer of traditional Armenian needlework. 

In speaking with Ayda, I came to learn that although she was from Aleppo, Syria and had moved to Armenia in 2012, her ancestral roots were in fact from Marash, Western Armenia. Ever since she was 10 years old, she had carefully watched her grandmother as she created beautifully intricate designs on pillows and other such items throughout the home. Arika is her grandmother’s name, and it only made sense to use as the company name when she founded it in 2012. Aside from the traditional style of Marash, Ayda is also able to embroider the traditional styles of Svaz, Van, Ainteb and Urfa. She is currently studying the traditional works of Cilicia as well as of Artsakh. She currently employs nine other embroiderers who bring their shared experiences and knowledge of these ancient needlework traditions. 

Aram Spendjian with Ayda Santourian Degirmenjian, owner of Arika Armenian Embroidery

Together we worked for several months to develop the city logos to fit in the mold of the traditional patterns of Marash needlework. Through drawing then hand sewing each of the logos, we were ready to move on to adding them to the hats. As mentioned above, I worked with a factory in Armenia to produce each of the hats in a variety of colors specific to the diasporan cities I wanted to represent: New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Los Angeles. From there, we moved the hats to the Arika Armenian Embroidery store located on the 4th floor of the Tashir Trade Center in Yerevan. 

Each “Marash League Baseball” hat was handmade by craftswomen relying on centuries-old traditions. The hats were made lovingly with the nuances and feelings of each seamstress. True to my vision and desire, the production process employed more than 15 people in Armenia, from the hat manufacturer to the traditional embroiderers. 

How does one keep Armenian culture alive while living as a diasporan? This is the age-old question that many of us either ask ourselves or are asked. In a world that is constantly evolving, we as Armenian must evolve with it while holding true to our culture, customs and traditions. With the “Marash League Baseball” hats, I think we can do just that, by stepping up to the plate and representing not just where we live, but where we as Armenians come from.

A fitting tribute

Last Sunday, my wife and I went to Camp Haiastan to witness the dedication of the renovated Cabin Circle in memory of Regina Najarian and the Under the Trees area in memory of Mark Alashaian and Vaghinag Koroghlian. How great it was to see the amount of people there for such a special day. The next morning, I sat quietly reflecting, still in awe of how many people made the trip to Franklin, Massachusetts. It was like the “good old days,” 1,000 people strong.

Was it because the weather was so beautiful?

Was it because everyone wanted to see green grass growing in the cabin circle for the first time in 70 years?

Was it because everyone could finally fit Under the Trees at one time with its new expansive design?

Was it because parents wanted to spend a few more minutes with the campers they were dropping off for Session 2?

Was it the desire to leave New York and New Jersey for greener pastures, if only for a few hours?

Was it because Sunday was the first picnic at Camp Haiastan in three years?

The kebab was worth the wait.

Was it because we knew the Providence ARF and friends worked so hard to make this picnic memorable, and we knew the food would be great?

Was it because Sunday would be the only picnic at Camp Haiastan this summer?

Was it because Hagop Donoyan was cooking the shish kebab?

Was it the sound of Armenian music coming from the bandstand?

Was it because people heard that Peter Alemian and Bob Gigarjian were going to be there?

Was it to hear the laughter of our next generation enjoying time with each other?

Was it because we knew we would see countless friends all in one place?

Was it a desire to revisit a piece of our past that we all cherish?

Was it because Camp Haiastan is the greatest place on earth?

Protest in Stepanakert against the blockade of Artsakh (Siranush Sargsyan, Twitter)

We live in a bizarre world. There are scores of countries populated by citizens who proudly proclaim the moral high ground on human rights and common decency, yet few of the governments of these nations actually use those values as guiding lights. We certainly have an abundance of public rhetoric to keep the record straight, but in the hallowed halls where policy is defined we are subjected to those haunting words—“self interests.” In the vernacular, this refers  to what allows one to maintain political power, economic impact or any other element of influence. In this game, the big guys use the smaller ones to advance their interests through “proxy” activities. 

The war in the Ukraine is an excellent example. At face value, the war is fought for democracy and freedom in the Ukraine, but if Ukraine was not a border nation for the re-invigorated East/West Cold War, then it would be ignored by the West. Ukraine serves as a convenient vehicle for weakening Russia, protecting the grain supply and crushing Russia’s fossil fuel exports. Self-interest drives behaviors that are inconsistent with the stated values of great nations. If your conflict happens to intersect with the self-interests of powerful nations, then you may pay a terrible price in human life, but eventually benefit. Who do you think will rebuild devastated Ukraine? In the age of modern warfare, when you can conduct military activity and minimize military human losses, we have discovered a new and even more efficient method in the Ukraine. Just give them billions of dollars in weaponry to kill Russian soldiers, whose army will then be required to kill more Ukrainian soldiers – all this without any American or European military casualties. I wonder if in this tragic proxy war of attrition, it has ever occurred to the “leaders” to sit down and find a compromise. Then the destruction of property and life would be minimized, and the larger goal of weakening Russia would be served.  Besides, there are hungry contractors waiting for the reconstruction. 

All nations caught in a proxy war are victims to the loss of human life. The public is fed the moral lines of freedom and democracy, while we support pseudo democratic leaders. We were lied to about Vietnam. Anyone from that generation remembers the “domino theory.” Foreign wars without an exit strategy are a disaster. There was plenty of information to say Vietnam was not winnable. Ask the French. At some point the military is replaced by politicians. We were lied to in Iraq. Remember the “weapons of mass destruction.” Still looking. We were managing a civil war that a dictator had kept the lid on. Same in Afghanistan. We went in to get the 9/11 terrorists and stayed 20 years to manage another civil war. The one lesson we have learned in this country is that we must never blame the soldiers. They serve with honor and are placed in harm’s way. 

This brings us to Artsakh. The cause of Artsakh is actually more pure in moral veracity compared to Ukraine, Bosnia or other areas of powerful intervention. The difference lies in the reality of self interest. How else can you explain the greatest democracy in the world, the U.S., enabling a vile dictatorship in Azerbaijan by refusing to enforce legislation specifically designed to prevent the U.S. military aid being used for offensive and destructive purposes? Azerbaijan has used that aid along with billions from NATO (code for U.S.) to Turkey to kill Armenians. The Republic of Artsakh has displayed remarkable growth in their democratic structures over the last thirty years, even while burdened by an unrecognized status and hostile neighbors. Meanwhile with abundant U.S. aid, Azerbaijan has sunk to the depths of a corrupt dictatorship. Turkey holds elections to legitimize the decommissioning of democracy by pseudo-Sultan Erdogan. All of this for the love of oil and gas and an alternative to Russian influence. The Europeans talk a good one, sending observers from numerous nations to witness the starvation plan of Azerbaijan towards Artsakh, yet aside from almost daily condemnation (easy to issue statements of moral correctness) there is little commitment. Predictably, calls to open the Berdzor (Lachin) Corridor are numerous and empathetic (USAID is the latest…it is ironic that we need provisions yet receive statements). Armenians receive sympathy while the Azeris do what they wish. Sympathy is for those who experience a death. What would commitment look like? I would suggest three areas: sell Armenia advanced military weaponry so it can defend itself; impose economic sanctions on the criminal regime of Azerbaijan that has spit in the face of international civility by ignoring the International Court of Justice ruling; observers are welcome, but armed peacekeepers are necessary. How do we motivate real support? It may require us to be a bit less cooperative. In our world where might does make at least reality, Artsakh is left, as incredible as it may seem, begging to prevent genocide. As “advanced” as our international peace infrastructure has become (at least regarding the hundreds of billions of dollars spent), we have been unable to prevent the worst crime on this planet with genocides committed in Cambodia, Darfur, Rwanda and Bosnia. These are only examples where we can agree on the definition. What about the hundreds of thousands slaughtered in Yemen or Syria? It is easy to call them conflicts or ethnic struggles. By any barometer, we have failed miserably. We stopped the killing in Bosnia because of “self-interest,” particularly on behalf of the Europeans. Who cares about Cambodia, Darfur, Rwanda or Artsakh? This is what we have to work with. I doubt we can change the equation, but we can change our approach.

We all seek justice, but just how is justice accomplished in this world of duplicity and deceit? Let’s take the case of Artsakh. All the Armenians of Artsakh want is to live in peace on the land they have lived on for centuries. The fact that Artsakh is not considered a part of the sovereign territory of Armenia is a reflection of injustices committed by external powers, including Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. Why is it that the Armenians are the only ones following the rules? Azerbaijan has committed more atrocities than this column has space for, reneged on every agreement it has ever made, violated international laws and murdered at will. This behavior has been rewarded with no sanctions and a consensus of “territorial integrity” prevailing over “self-determination.” Why? Because they have taken advantage of every opportunity regardless of its legality and moral correctness. Has this weakened Azerbaijan’s position? Hardly. The Azeris understand that mediators have a high tolerance for their criminal behavior, even while they make a mockery of diplomacy. 

Armenia can learn from this and adjust its approach. It takes both parties for an agreement. In the meantime, Armenia is forced to participate in this three-level parallel process that has replaced the Minsk group with separate and competing meetings in Washington, Brussels and Moscow. It is similar to adult children having multiple holiday dinners because the parents don’t talk. Armenia makes no trouble for anyone, despite the partially self-imposed awkward circumstances. How insulting to attend a meeting after Aliyev shoots at civilians, attempts to starve Armenians and declares Armenia is “western Azerbaijan.” Despite the protocol of diplomacy which must accept vile rhetoric, this passes the humiliation litmus test.

Frankly, I am tired of hearing that Armenia can do nothing because it would result in a devastating war. We have already experienced that result. In addition to the loss, it has brought on a debilitating victim mentality where we feel incapable of dignity through resistance. We also forget that the presence of the Americans and Europeans (the latter on the ground with about 200 observers) is a deterrent. Even the dictator Aliyev doesn’t want any European casualties in an invasion. The Armenians have more leverage in this process than they perceive. The Americans and Europeans (perhaps not the Russians) are not about to impose a treaty. Armenia must be a conscious party. It has the opportunity to resist and respond to Aliyev’s outrageous behavior. A patient under the care of the International Committee of the Red Cross has been imprisoned by the Azeris. Prisoners are illegally kept in captivity. The blockade and border attacks on civilians continue. Armenia must respond to these intimidating tactics. It may be through a border confrontation or refusal to negotiate until these barbaric acts cease. Utilize leverage or create leverage where it doesn’t exist.

Justice belongs to those who seize opportunities. If you follow the rules imposed by others but broken by the adversarial party, those opportunities are minimized. You are taken for granted and assumed to be a defeated nation. This is less about physical capability, but more about attitude and vision. This week, a caravan of 19 trucks was delivered  by the Armenian side, while thousands of Artsakhtsis protested on the other end. This may be the beginning of a public resistance to the genocidal blockade…or it could fizzle out without the support of the government, diaspora and our friends. Seize the moment. The Armenians must introduce at the next meetings in Moscow, Washington and Brussels adjustments required to create a productive environment. They should directly link Azeri criminal intimidation with Armenia’s participation. The United States and Europeans are very invested in a treaty that outflanks Russian diplomacy and increases Western influence in the South Caucasus. We play by rules imposed by others and respond with victim-like statements. Perhaps it is time to reread the history of the Karabakh committee and freedom spirit from 1988-94. These meetings produce little except the proverbial press statements that always include words like “progress,” “substantial” and “optimistic,” when we know that the Turks feel they can use barbaric means to stimulate the process. It is time for Armenia to use its required participation in negotiations to create leverage as the grassroots activities blossom. We should have nothing to fear.   

Recently, the ARF Bureau’s Office of Youth Affairs announced the launch of the research program “Armenian Students for Artsakh.” This program was initiated in “light of the critical period that Artsakh is currently experiencing and the pressing need to utilize the academic and professional skills of Armenian students and scholars for the greater Armenian cause, particularly in relation to Artsakh.” The main goal of the project is to bring together Armenian students in the fields of political science, economics, sociology, law, culture and investigative journalism, who will contribute their research to institutions involved in Armenian causes.

The 2020 Artsakh war showed that the period of weapons of the 20th century is over. To fight against the opponent or the enemy, it is necessary to study its current political and economic situation, promote analytical thinking among our students, develop the economy of our homeland, improve the border regions and strengthen our army, while encouraging the creation of a specialized generation.

In 2021, a similar program, “Towards Syunik,” was implemented to spotlight the challenges facing the Syunik region. Back then, some thought that by compromising on the Artsakh conflict, Armenia’s territorial integrity would have been secured. This narrative turned out to be wrong, as the ARF warned that without Artsakh, Armenians will never be secure in their homeland. “Towards Syunik” illustrated that Armenian students are not only interested in issues of importance to our homeland, but are also capable of highlighting problems with analytical and investigative approaches and developing solutions.

Through “Armenian Students for Artsakh,” Armenian students from around the world have the opportunity to critically assess the situation in Artsakh. They also have a unique opportunity to work with well-known, specialized consultants, to carry out important professional studies and to counter the challenges facing the homeland.

The materials included in the program can be divided into the following groups, with their accompanying mentors. 

The Armenian issue in general, and the Artsakh issue in particular, and its international perception and manifestations: 

• The destructive impact of the blockade of Artsakh on the rights and mental state of the children of Artsakh
  Gegham Stepanyan, Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Artsakh
• Blockade of the Berdzor Corridor as a war crime, from the International Law perspective
  Siranush Sahakian, Head of the Armenian Center for International and Comparative Law
• Azerbaijan’s Caviar Diplomacy in Europe
  Heghineh Evinian, Director of European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy
• The Aliyev family and Azerbaijan’s foreign investments and manifestations of corruption
  Harut Sassounian, Editor-in-chief of the California Courier newspaper
• The importance of the implementation of sanctions against Azerbaijan
  Aram Hamparian, Executive director of the ANCA office in Washington
• The importance of involving international humanitarian organizations in Artsakh
  Vicken Ashkarian, Collaborator at International Organization for Humanitarian Aid
• Artsakh issue on the agenda of international organizations
  Mario Nalbandian, Member of the Central Council of the ARF Hai Tahd, Socialist International Vice President

These seven studies can be useful for the lobbying activities of the “Hai Tahd” and the executive bodies of the Republic of Armenia to Western governments, with the aim to counter Azerbaijani propaganda and exert pressure on Baku. These studies may also unearth new resolutions in favor of Artsakh and Armenia in the parliaments of foreign countries. Moreover, such studies can be the basis for the adoption of economic sanctions against the dictatorial regime of Aliyev.

Economic and diplomatic relations of Azerbaijan:

• Azerbaijan’s Energy Policy with Russia and the West
  Yeghia Tashjian, Associate Fellow at the Issam Fares Institute – American University of Beirut
• Relations between Azerbaijan and Israel
  Shahan Kandaharian, Editor-in-chief of Beirut Aztag Daily
• National minorities of Azerbaijan
  Edgar Elbakyan, Co-founder of the Armenian Project
• Azerbaijan’s relations with regional powers
  Abraham Gasparyan, founding director of Genesis Armenia Center

These four studies are related to Azerbaijan’s internal politics and its geopolitical and geoeconomic position within the region. After the 2020 war, the main challenge facing Azerbaijan has been to conduct a balanced policy with Russia, Turkey and the West, while using oil and gas as a pressure card in order to gain concessions from the West and Russia regarding Artsakh. Also, analyzing Israel’s role is closely related to Iran’s role in the region.

Artsakh, the stronghold of Armenian resilience 

• The nation-army system ideology in Armenia and Artsakh
  Former Deputy Supreme Commander, Lieutenant General Tiran Khachatryan
• Azerbaijan’s political and academic attempts to distort history
  Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Sports of the Republic of Artsakh Lernik Hovhannisyan
• The potential of unconventional water resources in Artsakh
  Hovsep Der Kevorkian, ARF Bureau member and water resources specialist
• The urgent necessity to preserve the spiritual and non-material heritage of Artsakh
  Father Garegin Hambardzumyan, Director of Artsakh’s spiritual and cultural heritage preservation office in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
• Possibilities of increasing the resilience of the Artsakh’s economy
  Suren Parsyan, ARF Bureau Economic Research Office director
• Armenian humanitarian assistance to Artsakh Armenians after the 44-day war
  Lilit Martirosyan, Chairwoman of ARS Artsakh

These six studies are devoted to cultural, social, economic and political issues in Artsakh, Azerbaijan’s historical falsification and its genocidal policy. For both Armenia and Artsakh, the above-mentioned topics can be levers to protect Artsakh’s Armenians and preserve the Armenian identity of Artsakh against Baku’s genocidal ambitions.

About the competition

The submitted papers will be evaluated based on five criteria: modernity, feasibility significance, research work capacity, objective basis of the work and compliance with technical requirements. The goal is not necessarily to publish academic articles, nor to be satisfied only with analysis, but rather studies should present proposals that have the nature of a “policy paper/problem-solution” in which the student provides at least one policy proposal addressing the challenges mentioned. Such studies can open the door to discussions in the academic and political circles of Armenia. For example, rather than analyzing the blockade of Artsakh and its consequences or causes, students can suggest practical means of lifting the blockade, keeping in mind the current political and economic resources of Armenia and the Diaspora. In other words, being realistic is imperative. As critical thinkers, we have to go beyond mere slogan rhetoric or cheap populism. 

Completed projects will be examined by a judicial panel of consultants. All students who participate in the competition will receive symbolic gifts. The authors of the best studies selected by the jury will receive scholarships: first prize – $1,000 USD, second prize – $750 USD and third prize – $500 USD.

At the conclusion of the competition, an online conference will be convened where the best studies will be presented to the public. All the works will be published in the press. The results of the competition will be announced on November 1 of this year.

Every study will contribute to the Armenian cause, and today it is imperative that the political elite of Armenia listen to the concerns of our students and take into consideration their proposals.

The winning home team: Detroit AYF “Kopernik Tandourjian” Junior Chapter (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

The 57th annual AYF-YOARF Midwest Junior Olympics, held on July 14-15, were hosted by the Detroit AYF “Kopernik Tandourjian” Chapter. The games brought together Junior members from across the midwest regional chapters of Detroit, Racine, Chicago and Granite City to engage in a weekend of competition and socializing with their fellow AYF members. 

The weekend began with a picnic on Friday at Marshbank Park in West Bloomfield, Michigan, a nice setting near Cass Lake. Athletes and alumni were treated to food and music and a great evening of meeting new people and catching up with familiar folks. 

The Olympics began Saturday morning at the Hawk Community Center in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Although it was a rainy day of events, the passion and spirit of the Juniors prevailed, and they had great performances in their competitions throughout the day.

The solid Chicago AYF “Ararat” Junior Chapter Team (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

As the host chapter, the Detroit “Kopernik Tandourjian” team had a great showing of athletes competing in the Junior Olympics. However, this did not mean that Chicago, Racine and Granite City would go down easily. Athletes, who also included two members-at-large, competed in a variety of track and field events, including races, shot put, long jump and the baseball throw. 

Unfortunately, due to the poor weather, the opening ceremony was delayed until the evening’s dance to ensure all of the events were completed in good time. Nevertheless, the kiddie race was still held, and many future AYFers had the opportunity to experience competing at the Midwest Junior Olympics.

The Racine AYF “Armen Garo” Junior Chapter Team (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

Racine and Granite City put up a great effort throughout the day; however, it was clear that the winner of Midwest Junior Olympics would come down to Chicago and Detroit. Chicago’s younger and older boys made a strong statement, garnering many of the points in their respective events, while Detroit’s older and younger girls stepped up in a big way to earn significant points in their events. Due to the rain, the medal ceremony was moved to the evening dance, leaving plenty of excitement for who would be receiving a medal on the podium.

After a great day of competing, it was time for the Midwest Junior Olympics dance at the Sarkis Lillian Arakelian Hall in Dearborn, Michigan. Musical entertainment was provided by Detroit’s very own Nigosian Band, which was a perfect cap on an eventful day of competition. Later at night the medals were awarded, and the high scorers received their trophies and recognition for their strong performances during the games. 

Tina Peltekian Sportsmanship Award recipient Aline Killian (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

Just prior to the final results being announced, the Chicago and Detroit chapters gave out their two special awards. First was the Tina Peltekian Sportsmanship Award, which was awarded to a Junior who showed great sportsmanship and involvement during both Olympic practices and the games themselves. Presented in honor of Tina Peltekian, a member of the Chicago “Ararat” Chapter who passed away from cancer, the award was announced by coach Mike Jerikian and awarded to Aline Killian. 

The next special award was the Uncle Herman Sportsmanship Award, which was presented by the Detroit chapter. Named in honor of ARF advisor Herman Torigian, who spent over 40 years being a mentor for Juniors in the Detroit chapter, the award was announced by coach Laura Nigoghosian and awarded to Sevana Derderian.

At long last, it was the moment everyone was waiting for: the final results. In fourth place was Granite City, led by siblings Nick and Sarah Varadian who put up a solid 23 points. In third place was Racine, who had outstanding performances throughout the events with 49 points. Although Chicago put together a high-point total, their 112 points were not enough to take first place from host chapter Detroit. Detroit’s Juniors delivered an excellent performance during the events, bolstering 159 points as they defended their home in a fantastic manner.

The high-scorers of the Midwest AYF Junior Olympics (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

As is tradition for Midwest Junior Olympics, each chapter performed its chapter dance, and the crowd was generous with donations for all the competing teams.

As the weekend came to a close, some of the Juniors offered their thoughts about their experiences at Midwest Junior Olympics:

“This Junior Olympics was my first time competing, and I thought it was the greatest experience. The weather was a challenge, but it made the whole team come together. We all supported each other to do our best!” Aline Killian of the Chicago “Ararat” Chapter

Granite City “Antranig” Chapter athletes Sarah and Nick Varadian (Photo: Raffi Sarrafian)

“I had so much fun participating and cheering everyone on at the games and dancing all night long.” Ani Sarafian of the Detroit “Kopernik Tandourjian” Chapter

“This past weekend at Junior Olympics in Detroit, my brother Nick and I had a fun weekend making memories at the picnic on Friday, the track and field events, and the dance on Saturday night. I met a lot of new friends and hung out with old friends. I was fortunate enough to bring home some medals from all of my races, and I won the high score in my age category. I am sad that I am too old to participate in Juniors next year, but I will never forget all the memories I made from Junior Olympics, and now I get to participate in Senior Olympics. Even though my brother Nick and I were the only ones from Granite City, I think we represented Granite City well.” Sarah Varadian of the Granite City “Antranig” Chapter 

“I loved Junior Olympics because I got to see my friends from out of town. It is very fun to participate in different events and compete with other people.” Mourad Bagdasarian of the Detroit “Kopernik Tandorujian” Chapter

PROVIDENCE, R.I.—Since May, the Armenian Historical Association of R.I. (AHARI) has featured an exhibit entitled “The 1915 Armenian Genocide: Orphans and the Near East Relief Fund. The World’s Response.” Gallery Z director Berge Zobian, who curated the multimedia exhibit, told the Weekly that the featured works focus on “the world‘s reaction to the atrocities via world press coverage during that era.” 

Included in the exhibit are images from global coverage of the Armenian Genocide, posters from Near East Relief (NER, now Near East Foundation) and a video of restored parts of the film Ravished Armenia, a documentary memoir based on the life of Genocide survivor Aurora Mardiganian. Walking through the exhibit is a step back in time when there were widespread reports of the atrocities being committed and a coordinated effort to raise funds and offer humanitarian aid to the suffering Armenians. 

Much of the exhibit focuses on the orphans and refugees of the Genocide and the actions NER took to assist them. NER was founded in 1915 as a non-governmental humanitarian organization. As such, during and after the Armenian Genocide, NER tangibly expressed the collective generosity of the American people with a movement that “literally saved the Armenian nation from total annihilation.” (anca.org) The AHARI exhibit pays tribute to NER and all those who selflessly gave of their time and resources to assist a nation decimated by genocide.

Perusing the reports and images, a visitor might be struck by the stark contrast between the media reports and humanitarian efforts of more than 100 years ago and the lack of the same as the Armenians of Artsakh continue to suffer an eight-month blockade at the hands of the government of Azerbaijan. 

Also on display at the historical association is the continuously-running “Rhode Island Armenians: Discovering the Past and Looking to the Future.” Curated by Hayk Demoyan, Ph.D., of Yerevan, AHARI describes the exhibit as spanning “the history of RI Armenians from the earliest immigrations to the current community illustrating its migration, adaptation, survival and success through artistically created panels noting different aspects of the community, its history and legacy.”

For the first time, AHARI and both of its exhibits will be featured during this month’s Gallery Night Providence tour, which will be held on Thursday, August 17 from 4:30-8:30 p.m. A trolley guided tour will depart the Graduate Hotel in downtown Providence at 5:00 p.m. and will stop at AS220 Project Space, Bank RI Turks Head Gallery, Galerie le Domaine at Domain Properties and the Armenian Historical Association of R.I. 

“We are thrilled that Gallery Night Providence is visiting our spaces for the very first time,” said AHARI chair Martha Jamgochian. “We invite everyone to come and learn more about the Armenian community of Rhode Island, both as descendants of the Genocide and vibrant and contributing residents of our state.”

AHARI is located at 245 Waterman St., Suite 204 in Providence and will be open for the entirety of the tour hours. Parking and admission are free, and the facility is fully accessible.