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04/07/2006
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1) ANCA Telethon to Showcase Largest Armenian Grassroots Network
2) ARF Bureau Representative Meets with US Ambassador
3) Euro Parliament to Send Investigation Team to Examine Azerbaijan's
Desecration of Julfa Cemetery
4) ANC-PAC Supporters Raise Funds For Lt. Governor Candidate Jackie
Kanchelian-Speier
5) Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference Begins in Antelias
6) Unrest in Turkey Grows as Women Suicide Bombers Hit Turkish Mosque
7) Free Screening of 'The Armenian Genocide' at The Egyptian Theater
8) Glendale Unified School District Students Plan Genocide Assembly
9) The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia Recognizes The Armenian
Genocide
10) Deirmenjian's Diverse Background Lands Him Seat on LA Human Relations
Commission
11) NY Armenian-Americans Host Reception for Representative John Sweeney
12) Sponsor A Family Program to Help Needy in Armenia
13) ATP Launches Environmental Education Curriculum
14) Woulda Been Nice: By Garen Yegparian
1) ANCA Telethon to Showcase Largest Armenian Grassroots Network
(WASHINGTON, DC)--Hundreds of thousands of Armenian Americans are expected to
gather around their television sets on May 21 to watch a historic telethon
showcasing the work and accomplishments of the Armenian National Committee of
America (ANCA) around the country. The Telethon, with the theme "Securing Our
Roots... Building for the Future," will be broadcast nationwide and is a sign of
the growing strength and momentum of the ANCA.
The Telethon marks the start of a landmark campaign to help the ANCA further
strengthen itself as an invaluable Armenian American civic institution,
building on its proven track record by developing a powerful financial
foundation for the future. The Telethon will benefit the ANCA Endowment, which
supports Armenian American grassroots civic participation. The ANCA Endowment
ensures that our community has the tools to effectively educate the American
public and government, on the federal, state, and local levels, about the
challenges and opportunities facing Armenia, Karabagh, and the diaspora.
Individuals donating to the ANCA Telethon will be supporting an array of
successful programs managed by the organization's talented staff, including
the
ANCA Capital Gateway Program.
The ANCA Capital Gateway Program is designed to give qualified college
students and graduates an opportunity to explore various internship and
full-time job opportunities in the nation's capital. Through the years, the
ANCA has developed an extensive network of relationships in and around Capitol
Hill and identified a wide range of opportunities in the Washington, DC area.
The ANCA Capital Gateway Program is designed to utilize these resources and
contacts to help candidates identify and secure a permanent position or
internship that fits their interests and needs. To date, dozens of talented
Armenian Americans have found permanent jobs on Capitol Hill, in think tanks,
and leading corporations in Washington, DC thanks to the vision and practical
assistance provided by the Capital Gateway Program.
During the ANCA Telethon on May 21, many of the ANCA's accomplishments and
programs throughout the country will be highlighted, allowing the audience to
better acquaint themselves with the tremendous work being done and become a
part of the on-going successes. To make a pledge for the Telethon, please call
(866)402-ANCA.
2) ARF Bureau Representative Meets with US Ambassador
YEREVAN (Yerkir)--Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau
representative
Hrant Markarian met Friday with US Ambassador to Armenia John Evans at the US
Embassy in Yerevan.
Markarian and Evans discussed democracy and development in Armenia, relations
between the US and Armenia, and other regional issues.
Following the meeting, Markarian said, "I thought it important to directly
present some of our views to the US ambassador. I expressed our concerns over
provoking anti-Armenian sentiment in Iran by Azerbaijan as well as the
escalation of tension in the relations between the United States and Iran.
Armenia has good relations with both the US and Iran and Armenia prefers to
see
normal relations between those countries."
3) Euro Parliament to Send Investigation Team to Examine Azerbaijan's
Desecration of Julfa Cemetery
STRASBOURG--The President of the European Parliament (EP), Marie-Anne
Isler-Beguin, and the leaders of various parties, approved Thursday the body's
decision to send a delegation to Julfa, in the Nakhichevan region of
Azerbaijan.
The aim of the mission is to investigate Azerbaijan's destruction of the
Armenian cemetery in Julfa, a treasure of world architectural heritage that
was
destroyed and replaced by an Azeri military facility.
EP leaders entrusted this mission to the Commission on EU-Armenia
parliamentary cooperation rather than to an ad-hoc delegation, as initially
planned.
The mission is being sent in accordance with the Parliament's resolution "on
cultural heritage in Azerbaijan," which was adopted in February of 2006
(P6-TA(2006)0069). This measure "demands that Azerbaijan allow missions,
including experts working with ICOMOS, who are dedicated to surveying and
protecting archaeological heritage, in particular Armenian heritage, onto its
territory, and that it also allow a European Parliament delegation to visit
the
archaeological site at Julfa."
The delegation consists of ten Members of the European Parliament (MEP) who
are also members of the Commission of EU-Armenia parliamentary cooperation
group. They are set to travel to Julfa as part of their trip to Armenia from
April 17-21. Prior to traveling to Julfa, they will need to get the necessary
authorization from the Azeri authorities, the same authorities responsible for
the desecration of the cemetery.
The delegation will include the following MEPs: Marie-Anne Isler-Beguin,
President (France); Arpad Duka-Zolyomi, Vice-President (Slovakia); Alessandro
Battilocchio (Italy); Johannes Blokand (The Netherlands); Frederika Brepoels
(Belgium); Robert Evans (UK); Siiri Oviir (Estonia); Gabriele Stauer
(Germany);
Hannes Swoboda (Austria); Tadeusz Zwiefka (Poland).
4) ANC-PAC Supporters Raise Funds For Lt. Governor Candidate Jackie
Kanchelian-Speier
LOS ANGELES--Supporters of the Armenian National Committee Political Action
Committee (ANC-PAC), the largest grassroots Armenian American public affairs
organization, are enthusiastically raising funds in support of State Senator
Jackie Kanchelian-Speier's campaign for California Lieutenant Governor.
Speier,
who is the only Armenian American woman serving in California's State
Legislature, faces a tough Democratic Party primary battle on June 6, 2006.
She
is running for Lieutenant Governor against current California State Insurance
Commissioner John Garamendi and San Francisco Bay area State Senator Liz
Figueroa.
Members of the ANC family across the State of California have hosted four
events in support of
Jackie Speier's campaign to date. If she wins her June 6 primary and the
general election this November, Speier would hold the second most powerful
political office in the state. In Sacramento, longtime ANC leader Hovannes
Boghossian and his wife Silva hosted a successful event that drew over 50
members of the tight-knit Armenian community in the area. Supporters of the
San
Francisco ANC have hosted two events for Speier, at the homes of Garbis and
Mayda Bezdjian and Jerry and Mariam Manoukian. In Los Angeles, ANC supporter
Koko Topalian hosted an event for Speier at his home that drew a strong
showing
of support for Speier's campaign.
"Jackie Kanchelian-Speier would make a fantastic Lieutenant Governor," said
ANC-PAC representative Aida Dimejian. "She has had one of the most
distinguished legislative careers in the history of our State Legislature and
clearly deserves to be our State's next Lieutenant Governor," added Dimejian.
"I am proud that an Armenian American woman of Jackie Kanchelian-Speier's
caliber is running for the second highest office in a state that is home to
over 35 million people," commented ANC-PAC supporter Souzi
Zerounian-Khanzadian. "Because Jackie cannot knock on millions of doors to ask
people to vote for her, our community needs to raise the funds needed to help
her reach millions of voters by airing her TV and radio commercials," she
added.
The ANC-PAC (a non-partisan organization) seeks to elevate the level of
political participation of Armenian American voters. Working in coordination
with a network of supporters throughout the State of California, the ANC-PAC
actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad
range of issues.
5) Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference Begins in Antelias
The Catholicosate of Cilicia, under the auspices of His Holiness Aram I,
convened Thursday the Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference in Antelias,
Lebanon with the help of the Writers' Union of Armenia and the Association of
Lebanese Armenian Writers.
After opening prayers, Bebo Simonian welcomed participants on behalf of the
organizers and highlighted the role of the Catholicosate in preserving and
promoting Armenian culture. Levon Ananian, president of the Writer's Union of
Armenia, also welcomed guests and made opening remarks.
His Holiness Aram I spoke about the role and mission of Armenian writers
before the more than 300 writers present from Armenia, Karabagh, Lebanon, the
Middle East, Canada, the US, South America, Europe, and Australia.
Armenian President Robert Kocharian, Prime Minister Andranik Markarian, and
Parliament Speaker Artur Baghdasarian sent a message wishing the conference
and
its attendants success.
The convention will continue over the weekend.
6) Unrest in Turkey Grows as Women Suicide Bombers Hit Turkish Mosque
ISTANBUL (Reuters/Turkish Daily News)--Two women blew themselves up at a
mosque
in Turkey's Black Sea city Ordu on Friday, leaving one bomber dead and the
other injured, reported CNN Turk.
Police in Ordu were not immediately available for comment. In a separate
incident, a bomb exploded in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast.
After a week of street clashes between police and Kurdish protesters, a bomb
ripped through the Istanbul offices of Turkey's ruling Justice and Development
Party (AKP) on Wednesday, injuring two people.
That blast came five days after another bomb attack in Turkey's largest city
which killed one person and was blamed on Kurdish militants.
The Turkish government pledged to fight the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK),
but said this would be done without sacrificing the reforms carried out in
recent years as a part of Turkey's bid to join the European Union.
Meanwhile the 25-nation bloc urged Turkish authorities to investigate the
recent violence that has left 16 people dead over the last nine days.
The EU said Turkey must promote the rights of all its citizens as stipulated
in an agreement and added that the issue would be raised as part of regular EU
monitoring of Turkey's progress towards EU membership.
"Turkey's democratic standards will increase and strengthen; there is no
question of retreating from democratic steps taken," Foreign Minister Abdullah
Gul said. But he also promised a "more effective struggle against terrorism."
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, however, rejected criticism that an
excessive use of force was to blame for the loss of life during street
protests
last week.
"Our security forces have displayed an attitude of tolerance unseen in other
countries at the risk of being wounded or killed," he told reporters. "No one
can level such accusations against them, and we will not bother to respond to
them each and every time."
Land Forces Commander General Buyukanyt vowed that "traitors" would get the
right punishment while attending a funeral in Ankara's Haymana district for
one
of the soldiers killed in a PKK ambush in the southeast of the country.
In Mersin, 10,000 angry mourners gathered for a funeral ceremony of another
security forces member who perished in the same ambush and carried a
250-meter-long Turkish flag through the streets, chanting anti-PKK slogans.
7) Free Screening of 'The Armenian Genocide' at The Egyptian Theater
Although the Los Angeles PBS affiliate KCET-TV is refusing to air "The
Armenian
Genocide," Los Angeles residents will be able to see Andrew Goldberg's
documentary in three free screenings on Monday, April 17 at Hollywood's
Egyptian Theater.
The free screenings are one hour long, and will be at 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM, and
10:00 PM. No tickets are needed for the screenings, but arrive early as it is
on a first come first served basis.
Goldberg, who helped pay for the free screenings himself, said that if the
crowds are large enough, an additional screening may be added.
Large groups are welcome, however no children under 12 will be permitted. Due
to increased security, ID may be necessary to enter the theater.
DVD's and videos of the one-hour documentary focusing on the Ottoman Empire's
role in the Armenian genocide and ongoing denial in the modern republic of
Turkey will be available for purchase Monday night.
The Egyptian Theater is located at 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028.
For more information about the screenings or to volunteer, log on to
www.twocatstv.com or email [email protected].
8) Glendale Unified School District Students Plan Genocide Assembly
By Vince Lovato
GLENDALE (News-Press)--Anna Harutyunyan grew up in Armenia and she has seen
the poverty of rural villages there.
That's why the Glendale High School senior is so dedicated to her role as
president of her school's Armenian Club, and to a vision of remembering her
homeland's history.
Harutyunyan, 18, will represent Glendale when the leaders of the student
Armenian Clubs from Clark Magnet, Crescenta Valley, Glendale, and Hoover high
schools meet at the Glendale Unified School District administration
building at
223. N. Jackson St. to plan the Fifth Annual Armenian Genocide Remembrance
Assembly, scheduled for April 21 at the Glendale High School Auditorium.
As she looks forward to the assembly, Harutyunyan doesn't stray far from
memories of her native land.
"I visited some villages and I've seen the conditions," said Harutyunyan, 18,
who was born and lived in Armenia until she was 14. "They don't have enough
funds to pay for repairing classrooms or to buy equipment and books."
Such awareness was admired by school board member Greg Krikorian, who serves
as an unofficial liaison to the student assembly planners.
"The main focus is the vision and passion of our youth and how they see the
Genocide and commemorating it..." Krikorian said. "It's not just about
education and seeking truth and justice but reflecting and growing from what
happened and moving forward in the proper way. Parents are encouraged to
attend
and support our youth. This is a great opportunity to bring your family and
commemorate the Armenian genocide with a night filled with dances, poetry, and
music all performed by students."
Students have plans for the assembly that are already in the works.
Each school will make a presentation at the assembly, ranging from poetry
readings to video clips and folk songs. The clubs invited special guest
participants to perform, Krikorian said.
Ateena Pirverdian, an 18-year-old senior and Armenian Club president at
Crescenta Valley, said each school has 10 minutes to make a presentation about
Armenian heritage or the Genocide in which 1.5 million Armenians were
killed by
Ottoman Turks beginning in 1915. Crescenta Valley will show a 10-minute video
at the assembly.
"I think it's important to participate in the Armenian community," Pirverdian
said. "Being the leader of this club, I can give as much as I can so I can
help
[club members] actively participate. I have grown up in this community and I
want to give back." The students' focus on remembering Armenian heritage is an
ongoing concern.
Each of the campuses has about 100 members in their respective Armenian Clubs
who are active in philanthropic activities, Krikorian said.
One of the ongoing programs is to aid Glendale's sister city, Ghapan, by
raising money for furniture and remodeling three schools there, Harutyunyan
said.
"We're helping this sister city and I'm really glad to be helping them, so
that makes me even more motivated," said Harutyunyan, whose grandfather was
killed in the genocide. "It's a great opportunity for them and for us."
WHAT: Fifth Annual Armenian Genocide Remembrance Assembly
WHEN: Doors open 6:30 PM April 21, 2006
WHERE: Glendale High School Auditorium, 1440 Broadway.
ADMISSION: Free
9) The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia Recognizes The Armenian
Genocide
OTTAWA--The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia unanimously adopted a
Private Member's Motion (Motion 59) recognizing the Armenian genocide and
designating April 24 of every year as a day of remembrance for the 1.5 million
Armenians who fell victim to the first genocide of the 20th Century.
The debate on the Motion, which was sponsored by Member of the Legislative
Assembly (MLA) Adrian Dix (Vancouver-Kingsway), was voted on at the end of the
allotted one hour period, according to Private Member's Motion rules.
MLA's Adrian Dix (Vancouver-Kingsway), Rob Fleming (Victoria-Hillside), Randy
Hawes (Maple Ridge-Mission), Dave S. Hayer (Surrey-Tynehead), John Horgan
(Malahat-Juan De Fuca), Murine Karagianis (Esquimalt-Metchosin), Leonared Krog
(Naniamo), Kevin Krueger (Kamloops-North Thompson), John Nuraney
(Burnaby-Wellingdon), Micheal Sather (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows), and John Yap
(Richmond- tevenston) spoke in support of the Motion.
Since last August The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), The
Armenian National Committee of Canada - West (ANCCW), and The Armenian
National
Committee of Vancouver (ANCV), have worked closely with the MLA's Dix, Hawes,
Sather, and Hayer to build non-partisan support for Motion 59.
The ANCC, ANCCW, and ANCV delegates had numerous meetings with various MLA's
to brief them on the Motion's importance as a universal human rights issue.
In addition, the delegates presented a historical overview of the Genocide
and
supporting documents.
Executive Director of the ANCC Aris Babikian, on behalf of the
Canadian-Armenian community, thanked MLA's Adrian Dix and Randy Hawes for
their
leadership in the successful adoption of the Motion. Furthermore, Babikian
thanked members who spoke in favor of the Motion and the members who voted to
adopt it.
"This is a historic day for our community in Canada and in British Columbia.
The steadfast support and the unanimous vote of the MLA's demonstrates once
again that the Turkish Government's denial policy and rewriting of history
will
not succeed. We call upon the Turkish Government to be constructive, to
come to
terms with its dark history and to acknowledge its predecessors' guilt and
extend a hand of atonement and reconciliation to the Armenian people," said
Babikian.
The following is the text of Motion 59:
"Be it resolved that this House recognize the genocide of the Armenians as a
crime against humanity. Be it further resolved that this House urge the BC
[British Columbia] government to designate April 24th of every year hereafter
throughout BC as a day of remembrance for the 1.5 million Armenians who fell
victim to the first genocide of the 20th Century."
10) Deirmenjian's Diverse Background Lands Him Seat on LA Human Relations
Commission
LOS ANGELES (ANCA-WR)--Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti has
appointed Raffe Deirmenjian to serve on the city's Human Relations Commission
Advisory Committee, which strives to promote positive race and human relation
in the increasingly complex and multicultural county of Los Angeles.
Deirmenjian, a member of the California West Valley Armenian National
Committee, has worked diligently to have the Armenian genocide included in the
Los Angeles Unified School District's curriculum, and during a time of racial
conflict at local Grant High School, worked with students and
administrators to
successfully settle the conflict.
Armenian National Committee of America - Western Region (ANCA - WR) Chairman
Steve Dadaian, describes Deirmenjian as an ideal candidate for the job.
"Having
worked closely within ANC, Raffe has the necessary background in not only
managing human relations, but also grasping the ideals that help to overcome
prejudice, bias, and other divisive attitudes that can lead to inter-cultural
tension," says Dadaian.
The Commission works with law enforcement, schools, cities, community-based
organizations, youth, academics, policy makers, businesses, and other leaders,
to bring key players together to resolve immediate inter-cultural conflicts.
"It's rare to find a person with such a diverse background," stresses Dadaian
who points to Derimenjian's current position as a Second Vice President of
Wealth Management at Smith Barney, education in political science and business
marketing, and five years of hands-on experience on Wall Street, coupled with
practical public policy experience within the ANC. "He fits the ideal profile
to serve on this Commission whose mission is to lay the groundwork for a
long-term campaign to eradicate unfair practices, while working within the
system."
Also appointed to the Commission were Vicky Ortega, Karen Hallock, Al Garcia,
and Jose Roberto Hernandez.
11) NY Armenian-Americans Host Reception for Representative John Sweeney
NEW YORK--Armenian-Americans from throughout New York gathered at the home of
Chris and Lisa Parnagian on Monday, March 27 for a fundraising reception for
one of the Armenian Cause's strongest Congressional supporters, US
Representative John Sweeney (R-NY).
The highlight of the event was a moving speech by the Congressman about his
Armenian heritage and his devotion to Armenian issues. Reflecting on his own
family's experience, he noted that, "My grandfather Oscar, who survived the
Genocide, would be deeply moved if saw me here today speaking with you--my
people--about how we will work to see the Armenian genocide recognized. The
greatest democracy in the world has an obligation to speak the truth about the
enormous crime perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire against our ancestors. I'm
not
resting until it does."
Also offering remarks during the evening were Chris Parnagian and Robert
Setrakian, who co-chaired the event, Doug Geogerian representing the Armenian
National Committee of America - Eastern Region (ANCA-ER), ANCA Executive
Director Aram Hamparian, and Antranik Boudakian, from the Friends of the ANC.
Co-chair Chris Parnagian, on behalf of his family, welcomed the Congressman,
his wife Gayle, and daughter Kelly to their home, and shared his pride with
all
in attendance at the highly respected public service of a fellow
Armenian-American. Robert Setrakian, who joined with his wife Silvia in
co-chairing the program along with the Parnagians, noted that, "The
Congressman's record speaks of incredible integrity and of personal
dedication.
Our communities across the United States must support a fellow
Armenian-American, who has accomplished so much in government." He added, "I'm
sure grandfather Oscar would be incredibly proud today, and even prouder, if
you one day became Co-chairman of the Armenian Caucus."
The ANC of New York, The Friends of ANC, and the National Organization of
Republican Armenians (NORA) co-sponsored the reception.
"The community is so eager to support you, Congressman. You have done so much
towards strengthening US-Armenia relations already. Please know that we stand
ready to help you in anyway we can," said Friends of ANC representative
Antranig Boudakian.
ANCA Regional Director Doug Geogerian reminded guests that, "Congressman
Sweeney sits on the powerful Foreign Operations Subcommittee, which has
overseen the appropriation of over a billion and a half dollars in aid to
Armenia. As a Republican, he has been willing to forcefully challenge his
party's own leadership on their refusal to allow a vote on Armenian genocide
legislation. As Armenian-Americans, we owe it our community, our cause, and
our
nation to provide Congressman Sweeney with our energetic support.
ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian stressed how proud Armenian-Americans
are that the Congressman--in addition to helping to secure increased aid to
Armenia, continued aid to Karabagh, and military aid parity for Armenia and
Azerbaijan--helped to write the legislation for the Millennium Challenge
Account, which earlier that day granted $235 million to build roads and
irrigation systems in rural Armenia. Hamparian urged all in attendance to
encourage increased support for the Congressman as he rises in seniority and
influence in the political system.
Among the community leaders form various organizations was the Very Reverend
Father Anoushavan Tanielian, representing Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan of the
Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church, who was in Washington, DC for the
signing at the State Department of a new foreign aid agreement with Armenia.
Hrachia Tashchian, the Counselor for Armenia's Mission to the UN, represented
Ambassador Armen Martirosyan, who was unable to attend due to urgent
diplomatic
developments.
12) Sponsor A Family Program to Help Needy in Armenia
With so many families in Armenia living below the poverty line, the Sponsor A
Family Program helps needy Armenian families who would otherwise not have
sufficient food and shelter. So far, the program has helped save many families
from becoming homeless and children from being sent to orphanages.
The Sponsor A Family program allows individuals from the diaspora sponsor and
aid qualifying families in Armenia. Volunteers from the organization find
families in Armenia that are in dire need of financial assistance. Local
social
workers visit the families and determine whether they are eligible to
participate in the program.
Families that are chosen to participate in the program receive donations from
the organization to use toward food, shelter, and other daily necessities.
Donors and sponsors receive a videotape, photographs, and information about
the
family they are helping. They may even directly contact the family.
One family that benefited from the program was about to be thrown out of
their
home because they could not pay their rent. The program provided the family
with one month's rent as they worked to find alternative financial
resources to
help the family.
Another family, a mother and son, needed additional funds to purchase a
"domig," which is a construction trailer built like a home with windows. The
mother's legs were amputated so she was unable to work. The organization
helped
them purchase the "domig" and to get the necessary permits from the city, with
the help of a private donation.
The Sponsor A Family Program is a part of the Ghazarian Foundation. The
Ghazarian Foundation was founded in 1999 by Zuhrab and Seta Ghazarian in order
to help families in Armenia. To make a tax-deductible donation, 100 percent of
which will go directly to the family, please contact the Ghazarian Foundation
at 3610 Aster Street in Seal Beach, CA 90740 or via email at
[email protected]. Please include your address, phone number, or email
address with all inquiries. The Foundation's website is
<http://www.nhffoundations.net/GhazarianFoun dation>www.nhffoundations.net/G
hazarianFoundat ion.
13) ATP Launches Environmental Education Curriculum
YEREVAN--The Regional Environmental Center for the Caucasus hosted the
official
release last week of Armenia Tree Project's new environmental education
curriculum, "Plant an Idea, Plant a Tree." The curriculum was developed last
year by Armenia Tree Project (ATP) in collaboration with Dr. Karla Wesley.
The curriculum was recently approved as a teacher's manual for use in public
schools all over Armenia by the Ministry of Education and Science. In addition
to Dr. Wesley and ATP Environmental Education Program Manager Gayane
Ghukasyan,
many others who contributed to the development of the publication were
present,
including Luba Balyan of the Birds of Armenia NGO and Sirvard Mamikonyan of
the
USDA's Center for Agribusiness and Rural Development.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Education,
Yerevan State University, World Wildlife Fund, and other NGOs, as well as
teachers and principals from various schools. The Royal Netherlands Embassy
funded the printing of the curriculum for each school in Armenia, and many of
the guests were interested in obtaining additional copies from ATP.
Dr. Gayane Ghukasyan welcomed the participants and announced that 1,450
schools in Armenia will receive the book for use in its environmental
education
program. She explained that ATP has already established cooperation with 13
schools, which are using the publication in their youth clubs.
Karen Melkonyan, head of the curriculum evaluation department of the Ministry
of Education expressed his appreciation for the interactive methods in the
curriculum, and recommended it to all schools in Armenia. "One of the
advantages of this publication is the new teaching methods suggested, which
create better and long lasting understanding," stated Dr. Melkonyan. "The
author has studied Armenian culture and nature--which is very gratifying--and
used it as examples in the curriculum."
"Armenian culture at its best reveals the relationship between human being
and
nature. That is why children of Armenia should not forget about the
magnificent
culture they inherited to preserve and be proud of," replied Dr. Wesley in her
remarks. "This publication presents very informative and useful material that
can be used by all educators dealing with scientific subjects in schools
throughout Armenia," stated Anahit Bakhshyan, the principal of School No. 27,
who also commended ATP and the creators of the curriculum.
An electronic version of ATP's environmental education curriculum is
available
in English and Armenian at the following link:
armeniatree.org/whatwedo/eea.htm.
14) Woulda Been Nice
By Garen Yegparian
I know you'll be very surprised to learn that we won't have passage of a
Genocide Resolution--neither HR 316 nor HCR 195--by April 24 of this year.
That
is of course if you live on another planet.
Both were passed by the House International Relations Committee back on
September 15, 2005. But they haven't been brought to the floor of the House of
Representatives. Why?
That's politics. So I decided to contact two of the Congressional
champions of
this effort--Representatives Adam Schiff and George Radanovich.
Both agreed a resolution was unlikely to pass this year. Both agreed that
if a
resolution made it to the floor of the House, it would pass. Both agree the
Department of State (DOS) is where effort must be expended to change the
existing, I would say antiquated and ossified, pro-Turkey orientation.
According to Radanovich, the problem is the White House, and its primary
source of direction on this issue--the State Department. The Speaker of the
House, Dennis Hastert is unwilling to put the President, George Bush, in a
tight spot (remember, the House is controlled by the same party as the White
House, although the same thing happened even when Clinton was president).
According to Schiff, there is a division of labor among those pursuing
passage
of a Genocide resolution. He is working on the State Department while his
Republican colleagues work on the Speaker of the House. Radanovich had met
with
Hastert recently, presumably based on a request for a meeting some months ago.
Why the delay? My guess is Hastert's unwillingness to bring this to the floor
despite his promise to do so. I can't imagine there was such a great delay
when
former Congressman-turned-Turkish-lobbyist Livingston met, on September 7,
2005, with Speaker Hastert, then Majority Leader Tom Delay, Majority Whip Roy
Blunt, and (majority) Staff Director Thomas Mooney. I'd love to know exactly
what was discussed, but it's not hard to guess. The legally required filing
made by such lobbyists reads:
"Mr. Livingston met with the following [see above] Members of Congress and
Congressional Staffer to deliver a package of information on Turkish/Armenian
issues, and to discuss possible Congressional consideration of HCR 195 and HR
316:"
Schiff attended a meeting with a Deputy Secretary of State, accompanied by
other Congressional supporters' staffers. There, he tried to secure
support, or
at least non-opposition, for the resolutions. He would not disclose details,
since he'd asked for a candid, and confidential, presentation of DOS thoughts
on the issue. He also expressed his concerns regarding the Ambassador Evans
situation.
Ultimately, Schiff thinks that if a resolution doesn't pass by April 24, then
a discharge motion may be required. This means at least 218 cosponsors are
required on the resolution, i.e. a majority of the Representatives, which then
allows it to be brought to the floor, circumventing the Speaker. Radanovich
didn't think this would work, despite his statement that if there were a
Genocide resolution to be brought to the floor, enough votes existed for
passage. He was a bit rushed, having stepped out of a committee meeting for
the
interview, but he didn't explain this apparent contradiction. If there are
enough votes, couldn't those be brought on as cosponsors to bring the issue to
the floor for a vote? Perhaps implicit in his comments was the matter of party
loyalty, and the understandable hesitation some Republicans might have to
bucking their leadership.
So what are we to do? Schiff anticipated a massive, unprecedented effort by
our community and its supporters to realize passage. Radanovich advocates a
slower, DOS-policy changing, White House-converting approach.
Can we get the massive public outcry required for the discharge motion? Have
we developed enough support and friends among other constituencies throughout
the country who would help in this effort? Would they go to bat for us at this
time for this reason? And even if we do, what of Senate passage? Then there's
White House/DOS adoption of appropriate policy.
Do we have the kind of money, or willingness to generate it, that would go
head-to-head with Turkish lobbying dollars? If we do, are we willing to stoop
to the kind of "buying" of support that has tainted two members of the House
leadership? Tom Delay renounced his reelection bid, clearly as a
consequence of
his indictment and attendant political woes. Dennis Hastert was implicated by
Sybil Edmonds, the Turkish language translator, in Vanity Fair, as someone who
has received tens of thousands of dollars from Turkish sources in a possibly
illegal fashion? What would that do to our moral high ground?
I'm more of a supporter of the people-power approach, but even that takes
money similar in scale, though not quite as much, as the lobbyist-using
approach. These are our choices as presented by our elected representatives.
They are clearly willing to follow our lead. Let's lead.
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TOP STORIES
04/07/2006
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1) ANCA Telethon to Showcase Largest Armenian Grassroots Network
2) ARF Bureau Representative Meets with US Ambassador
3) Euro Parliament to Send Investigation Team to Examine Azerbaijan's
Desecration of Julfa Cemetery
4) ANC-PAC Supporters Raise Funds For Lt. Governor Candidate Jackie
Kanchelian-Speier
5) Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference Begins in Antelias
6) Unrest in Turkey Grows as Women Suicide Bombers Hit Turkish Mosque
7) Free Screening of 'The Armenian Genocide' at The Egyptian Theater
8) Glendale Unified School District Students Plan Genocide Assembly
9) The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia Recognizes The Armenian
Genocide
10) Deirmenjian's Diverse Background Lands Him Seat on LA Human Relations
Commission
11) NY Armenian-Americans Host Reception for Representative John Sweeney
12) Sponsor A Family Program to Help Needy in Armenia
13) ATP Launches Environmental Education Curriculum
14) Woulda Been Nice: By Garen Yegparian
1) ANCA Telethon to Showcase Largest Armenian Grassroots Network
(WASHINGTON, DC)--Hundreds of thousands of Armenian Americans are expected to
gather around their television sets on May 21 to watch a historic telethon
showcasing the work and accomplishments of the Armenian National Committee of
America (ANCA) around the country. The Telethon, with the theme "Securing Our
Roots... Building for the Future," will be broadcast nationwide and is a sign of
the growing strength and momentum of the ANCA.
The Telethon marks the start of a landmark campaign to help the ANCA further
strengthen itself as an invaluable Armenian American civic institution,
building on its proven track record by developing a powerful financial
foundation for the future. The Telethon will benefit the ANCA Endowment, which
supports Armenian American grassroots civic participation. The ANCA Endowment
ensures that our community has the tools to effectively educate the American
public and government, on the federal, state, and local levels, about the
challenges and opportunities facing Armenia, Karabagh, and the diaspora.
Individuals donating to the ANCA Telethon will be supporting an array of
successful programs managed by the organization's talented staff, including
the
ANCA Capital Gateway Program.
The ANCA Capital Gateway Program is designed to give qualified college
students and graduates an opportunity to explore various internship and
full-time job opportunities in the nation's capital. Through the years, the
ANCA has developed an extensive network of relationships in and around Capitol
Hill and identified a wide range of opportunities in the Washington, DC area.
The ANCA Capital Gateway Program is designed to utilize these resources and
contacts to help candidates identify and secure a permanent position or
internship that fits their interests and needs. To date, dozens of talented
Armenian Americans have found permanent jobs on Capitol Hill, in think tanks,
and leading corporations in Washington, DC thanks to the vision and practical
assistance provided by the Capital Gateway Program.
During the ANCA Telethon on May 21, many of the ANCA's accomplishments and
programs throughout the country will be highlighted, allowing the audience to
better acquaint themselves with the tremendous work being done and become a
part of the on-going successes. To make a pledge for the Telethon, please call
(866)402-ANCA.
2) ARF Bureau Representative Meets with US Ambassador
YEREVAN (Yerkir)--Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau
representative
Hrant Markarian met Friday with US Ambassador to Armenia John Evans at the US
Embassy in Yerevan.
Markarian and Evans discussed democracy and development in Armenia, relations
between the US and Armenia, and other regional issues.
Following the meeting, Markarian said, "I thought it important to directly
present some of our views to the US ambassador. I expressed our concerns over
provoking anti-Armenian sentiment in Iran by Azerbaijan as well as the
escalation of tension in the relations between the United States and Iran.
Armenia has good relations with both the US and Iran and Armenia prefers to
see
normal relations between those countries."
3) Euro Parliament to Send Investigation Team to Examine Azerbaijan's
Desecration of Julfa Cemetery
STRASBOURG--The President of the European Parliament (EP), Marie-Anne
Isler-Beguin, and the leaders of various parties, approved Thursday the body's
decision to send a delegation to Julfa, in the Nakhichevan region of
Azerbaijan.
The aim of the mission is to investigate Azerbaijan's destruction of the
Armenian cemetery in Julfa, a treasure of world architectural heritage that
was
destroyed and replaced by an Azeri military facility.
EP leaders entrusted this mission to the Commission on EU-Armenia
parliamentary cooperation rather than to an ad-hoc delegation, as initially
planned.
The mission is being sent in accordance with the Parliament's resolution "on
cultural heritage in Azerbaijan," which was adopted in February of 2006
(P6-TA(2006)0069). This measure "demands that Azerbaijan allow missions,
including experts working with ICOMOS, who are dedicated to surveying and
protecting archaeological heritage, in particular Armenian heritage, onto its
territory, and that it also allow a European Parliament delegation to visit
the
archaeological site at Julfa."
The delegation consists of ten Members of the European Parliament (MEP) who
are also members of the Commission of EU-Armenia parliamentary cooperation
group. They are set to travel to Julfa as part of their trip to Armenia from
April 17-21. Prior to traveling to Julfa, they will need to get the necessary
authorization from the Azeri authorities, the same authorities responsible for
the desecration of the cemetery.
The delegation will include the following MEPs: Marie-Anne Isler-Beguin,
President (France); Arpad Duka-Zolyomi, Vice-President (Slovakia); Alessandro
Battilocchio (Italy); Johannes Blokand (The Netherlands); Frederika Brepoels
(Belgium); Robert Evans (UK); Siiri Oviir (Estonia); Gabriele Stauer
(Germany);
Hannes Swoboda (Austria); Tadeusz Zwiefka (Poland).
4) ANC-PAC Supporters Raise Funds For Lt. Governor Candidate Jackie
Kanchelian-Speier
LOS ANGELES--Supporters of the Armenian National Committee Political Action
Committee (ANC-PAC), the largest grassroots Armenian American public affairs
organization, are enthusiastically raising funds in support of State Senator
Jackie Kanchelian-Speier's campaign for California Lieutenant Governor.
Speier,
who is the only Armenian American woman serving in California's State
Legislature, faces a tough Democratic Party primary battle on June 6, 2006.
She
is running for Lieutenant Governor against current California State Insurance
Commissioner John Garamendi and San Francisco Bay area State Senator Liz
Figueroa.
Members of the ANC family across the State of California have hosted four
events in support of
Jackie Speier's campaign to date. If she wins her June 6 primary and the
general election this November, Speier would hold the second most powerful
political office in the state. In Sacramento, longtime ANC leader Hovannes
Boghossian and his wife Silva hosted a successful event that drew over 50
members of the tight-knit Armenian community in the area. Supporters of the
San
Francisco ANC have hosted two events for Speier, at the homes of Garbis and
Mayda Bezdjian and Jerry and Mariam Manoukian. In Los Angeles, ANC supporter
Koko Topalian hosted an event for Speier at his home that drew a strong
showing
of support for Speier's campaign.
"Jackie Kanchelian-Speier would make a fantastic Lieutenant Governor," said
ANC-PAC representative Aida Dimejian. "She has had one of the most
distinguished legislative careers in the history of our State Legislature and
clearly deserves to be our State's next Lieutenant Governor," added Dimejian.
"I am proud that an Armenian American woman of Jackie Kanchelian-Speier's
caliber is running for the second highest office in a state that is home to
over 35 million people," commented ANC-PAC supporter Souzi
Zerounian-Khanzadian. "Because Jackie cannot knock on millions of doors to ask
people to vote for her, our community needs to raise the funds needed to help
her reach millions of voters by airing her TV and radio commercials," she
added.
The ANC-PAC (a non-partisan organization) seeks to elevate the level of
political participation of Armenian American voters. Working in coordination
with a network of supporters throughout the State of California, the ANC-PAC
actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad
range of issues.
5) Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference Begins in Antelias
The Catholicosate of Cilicia, under the auspices of His Holiness Aram I,
convened Thursday the Third Pan-Armenian Writers' Conference in Antelias,
Lebanon with the help of the Writers' Union of Armenia and the Association of
Lebanese Armenian Writers.
After opening prayers, Bebo Simonian welcomed participants on behalf of the
organizers and highlighted the role of the Catholicosate in preserving and
promoting Armenian culture. Levon Ananian, president of the Writer's Union of
Armenia, also welcomed guests and made opening remarks.
His Holiness Aram I spoke about the role and mission of Armenian writers
before the more than 300 writers present from Armenia, Karabagh, Lebanon, the
Middle East, Canada, the US, South America, Europe, and Australia.
Armenian President Robert Kocharian, Prime Minister Andranik Markarian, and
Parliament Speaker Artur Baghdasarian sent a message wishing the conference
and
its attendants success.
The convention will continue over the weekend.
6) Unrest in Turkey Grows as Women Suicide Bombers Hit Turkish Mosque
ISTANBUL (Reuters/Turkish Daily News)--Two women blew themselves up at a
mosque
in Turkey's Black Sea city Ordu on Friday, leaving one bomber dead and the
other injured, reported CNN Turk.
Police in Ordu were not immediately available for comment. In a separate
incident, a bomb exploded in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast.
After a week of street clashes between police and Kurdish protesters, a bomb
ripped through the Istanbul offices of Turkey's ruling Justice and Development
Party (AKP) on Wednesday, injuring two people.
That blast came five days after another bomb attack in Turkey's largest city
which killed one person and was blamed on Kurdish militants.
The Turkish government pledged to fight the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK),
but said this would be done without sacrificing the reforms carried out in
recent years as a part of Turkey's bid to join the European Union.
Meanwhile the 25-nation bloc urged Turkish authorities to investigate the
recent violence that has left 16 people dead over the last nine days.
The EU said Turkey must promote the rights of all its citizens as stipulated
in an agreement and added that the issue would be raised as part of regular EU
monitoring of Turkey's progress towards EU membership.
"Turkey's democratic standards will increase and strengthen; there is no
question of retreating from democratic steps taken," Foreign Minister Abdullah
Gul said. But he also promised a "more effective struggle against terrorism."
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, however, rejected criticism that an
excessive use of force was to blame for the loss of life during street
protests
last week.
"Our security forces have displayed an attitude of tolerance unseen in other
countries at the risk of being wounded or killed," he told reporters. "No one
can level such accusations against them, and we will not bother to respond to
them each and every time."
Land Forces Commander General Buyukanyt vowed that "traitors" would get the
right punishment while attending a funeral in Ankara's Haymana district for
one
of the soldiers killed in a PKK ambush in the southeast of the country.
In Mersin, 10,000 angry mourners gathered for a funeral ceremony of another
security forces member who perished in the same ambush and carried a
250-meter-long Turkish flag through the streets, chanting anti-PKK slogans.
7) Free Screening of 'The Armenian Genocide' at The Egyptian Theater
Although the Los Angeles PBS affiliate KCET-TV is refusing to air "The
Armenian
Genocide," Los Angeles residents will be able to see Andrew Goldberg's
documentary in three free screenings on Monday, April 17 at Hollywood's
Egyptian Theater.
The free screenings are one hour long, and will be at 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM, and
10:00 PM. No tickets are needed for the screenings, but arrive early as it is
on a first come first served basis.
Goldberg, who helped pay for the free screenings himself, said that if the
crowds are large enough, an additional screening may be added.
Large groups are welcome, however no children under 12 will be permitted. Due
to increased security, ID may be necessary to enter the theater.
DVD's and videos of the one-hour documentary focusing on the Ottoman Empire's
role in the Armenian genocide and ongoing denial in the modern republic of
Turkey will be available for purchase Monday night.
The Egyptian Theater is located at 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028.
For more information about the screenings or to volunteer, log on to
www.twocatstv.com or email [email protected].
8) Glendale Unified School District Students Plan Genocide Assembly
By Vince Lovato
GLENDALE (News-Press)--Anna Harutyunyan grew up in Armenia and she has seen
the poverty of rural villages there.
That's why the Glendale High School senior is so dedicated to her role as
president of her school's Armenian Club, and to a vision of remembering her
homeland's history.
Harutyunyan, 18, will represent Glendale when the leaders of the student
Armenian Clubs from Clark Magnet, Crescenta Valley, Glendale, and Hoover high
schools meet at the Glendale Unified School District administration
building at
223. N. Jackson St. to plan the Fifth Annual Armenian Genocide Remembrance
Assembly, scheduled for April 21 at the Glendale High School Auditorium.
As she looks forward to the assembly, Harutyunyan doesn't stray far from
memories of her native land.
"I visited some villages and I've seen the conditions," said Harutyunyan, 18,
who was born and lived in Armenia until she was 14. "They don't have enough
funds to pay for repairing classrooms or to buy equipment and books."
Such awareness was admired by school board member Greg Krikorian, who serves
as an unofficial liaison to the student assembly planners.
"The main focus is the vision and passion of our youth and how they see the
Genocide and commemorating it..." Krikorian said. "It's not just about
education and seeking truth and justice but reflecting and growing from what
happened and moving forward in the proper way. Parents are encouraged to
attend
and support our youth. This is a great opportunity to bring your family and
commemorate the Armenian genocide with a night filled with dances, poetry, and
music all performed by students."
Students have plans for the assembly that are already in the works.
Each school will make a presentation at the assembly, ranging from poetry
readings to video clips and folk songs. The clubs invited special guest
participants to perform, Krikorian said.
Ateena Pirverdian, an 18-year-old senior and Armenian Club president at
Crescenta Valley, said each school has 10 minutes to make a presentation about
Armenian heritage or the Genocide in which 1.5 million Armenians were
killed by
Ottoman Turks beginning in 1915. Crescenta Valley will show a 10-minute video
at the assembly.
"I think it's important to participate in the Armenian community," Pirverdian
said. "Being the leader of this club, I can give as much as I can so I can
help
[club members] actively participate. I have grown up in this community and I
want to give back." The students' focus on remembering Armenian heritage is an
ongoing concern.
Each of the campuses has about 100 members in their respective Armenian Clubs
who are active in philanthropic activities, Krikorian said.
One of the ongoing programs is to aid Glendale's sister city, Ghapan, by
raising money for furniture and remodeling three schools there, Harutyunyan
said.
"We're helping this sister city and I'm really glad to be helping them, so
that makes me even more motivated," said Harutyunyan, whose grandfather was
killed in the genocide. "It's a great opportunity for them and for us."
WHAT: Fifth Annual Armenian Genocide Remembrance Assembly
WHEN: Doors open 6:30 PM April 21, 2006
WHERE: Glendale High School Auditorium, 1440 Broadway.
ADMISSION: Free
9) The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia Recognizes The Armenian
Genocide
OTTAWA--The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia unanimously adopted a
Private Member's Motion (Motion 59) recognizing the Armenian genocide and
designating April 24 of every year as a day of remembrance for the 1.5 million
Armenians who fell victim to the first genocide of the 20th Century.
The debate on the Motion, which was sponsored by Member of the Legislative
Assembly (MLA) Adrian Dix (Vancouver-Kingsway), was voted on at the end of the
allotted one hour period, according to Private Member's Motion rules.
MLA's Adrian Dix (Vancouver-Kingsway), Rob Fleming (Victoria-Hillside), Randy
Hawes (Maple Ridge-Mission), Dave S. Hayer (Surrey-Tynehead), John Horgan
(Malahat-Juan De Fuca), Murine Karagianis (Esquimalt-Metchosin), Leonared Krog
(Naniamo), Kevin Krueger (Kamloops-North Thompson), John Nuraney
(Burnaby-Wellingdon), Micheal Sather (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows), and John Yap
(Richmond- tevenston) spoke in support of the Motion.
Since last August The Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC), The
Armenian National Committee of Canada - West (ANCCW), and The Armenian
National
Committee of Vancouver (ANCV), have worked closely with the MLA's Dix, Hawes,
Sather, and Hayer to build non-partisan support for Motion 59.
The ANCC, ANCCW, and ANCV delegates had numerous meetings with various MLA's
to brief them on the Motion's importance as a universal human rights issue.
In addition, the delegates presented a historical overview of the Genocide
and
supporting documents.
Executive Director of the ANCC Aris Babikian, on behalf of the
Canadian-Armenian community, thanked MLA's Adrian Dix and Randy Hawes for
their
leadership in the successful adoption of the Motion. Furthermore, Babikian
thanked members who spoke in favor of the Motion and the members who voted to
adopt it.
"This is a historic day for our community in Canada and in British Columbia.
The steadfast support and the unanimous vote of the MLA's demonstrates once
again that the Turkish Government's denial policy and rewriting of history
will
not succeed. We call upon the Turkish Government to be constructive, to
come to
terms with its dark history and to acknowledge its predecessors' guilt and
extend a hand of atonement and reconciliation to the Armenian people," said
Babikian.
The following is the text of Motion 59:
"Be it resolved that this House recognize the genocide of the Armenians as a
crime against humanity. Be it further resolved that this House urge the BC
[British Columbia] government to designate April 24th of every year hereafter
throughout BC as a day of remembrance for the 1.5 million Armenians who fell
victim to the first genocide of the 20th Century."
10) Deirmenjian's Diverse Background Lands Him Seat on LA Human Relations
Commission
LOS ANGELES (ANCA-WR)--Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti has
appointed Raffe Deirmenjian to serve on the city's Human Relations Commission
Advisory Committee, which strives to promote positive race and human relation
in the increasingly complex and multicultural county of Los Angeles.
Deirmenjian, a member of the California West Valley Armenian National
Committee, has worked diligently to have the Armenian genocide included in the
Los Angeles Unified School District's curriculum, and during a time of racial
conflict at local Grant High School, worked with students and
administrators to
successfully settle the conflict.
Armenian National Committee of America - Western Region (ANCA - WR) Chairman
Steve Dadaian, describes Deirmenjian as an ideal candidate for the job.
"Having
worked closely within ANC, Raffe has the necessary background in not only
managing human relations, but also grasping the ideals that help to overcome
prejudice, bias, and other divisive attitudes that can lead to inter-cultural
tension," says Dadaian.
The Commission works with law enforcement, schools, cities, community-based
organizations, youth, academics, policy makers, businesses, and other leaders,
to bring key players together to resolve immediate inter-cultural conflicts.
"It's rare to find a person with such a diverse background," stresses Dadaian
who points to Derimenjian's current position as a Second Vice President of
Wealth Management at Smith Barney, education in political science and business
marketing, and five years of hands-on experience on Wall Street, coupled with
practical public policy experience within the ANC. "He fits the ideal profile
to serve on this Commission whose mission is to lay the groundwork for a
long-term campaign to eradicate unfair practices, while working within the
system."
Also appointed to the Commission were Vicky Ortega, Karen Hallock, Al Garcia,
and Jose Roberto Hernandez.
11) NY Armenian-Americans Host Reception for Representative John Sweeney
NEW YORK--Armenian-Americans from throughout New York gathered at the home of
Chris and Lisa Parnagian on Monday, March 27 for a fundraising reception for
one of the Armenian Cause's strongest Congressional supporters, US
Representative John Sweeney (R-NY).
The highlight of the event was a moving speech by the Congressman about his
Armenian heritage and his devotion to Armenian issues. Reflecting on his own
family's experience, he noted that, "My grandfather Oscar, who survived the
Genocide, would be deeply moved if saw me here today speaking with you--my
people--about how we will work to see the Armenian genocide recognized. The
greatest democracy in the world has an obligation to speak the truth about the
enormous crime perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire against our ancestors. I'm
not
resting until it does."
Also offering remarks during the evening were Chris Parnagian and Robert
Setrakian, who co-chaired the event, Doug Geogerian representing the Armenian
National Committee of America - Eastern Region (ANCA-ER), ANCA Executive
Director Aram Hamparian, and Antranik Boudakian, from the Friends of the ANC.
Co-chair Chris Parnagian, on behalf of his family, welcomed the Congressman,
his wife Gayle, and daughter Kelly to their home, and shared his pride with
all
in attendance at the highly respected public service of a fellow
Armenian-American. Robert Setrakian, who joined with his wife Silvia in
co-chairing the program along with the Parnagians, noted that, "The
Congressman's record speaks of incredible integrity and of personal
dedication.
Our communities across the United States must support a fellow
Armenian-American, who has accomplished so much in government." He added, "I'm
sure grandfather Oscar would be incredibly proud today, and even prouder, if
you one day became Co-chairman of the Armenian Caucus."
The ANC of New York, The Friends of ANC, and the National Organization of
Republican Armenians (NORA) co-sponsored the reception.
"The community is so eager to support you, Congressman. You have done so much
towards strengthening US-Armenia relations already. Please know that we stand
ready to help you in anyway we can," said Friends of ANC representative
Antranig Boudakian.
ANCA Regional Director Doug Geogerian reminded guests that, "Congressman
Sweeney sits on the powerful Foreign Operations Subcommittee, which has
overseen the appropriation of over a billion and a half dollars in aid to
Armenia. As a Republican, he has been willing to forcefully challenge his
party's own leadership on their refusal to allow a vote on Armenian genocide
legislation. As Armenian-Americans, we owe it our community, our cause, and
our
nation to provide Congressman Sweeney with our energetic support.
ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian stressed how proud Armenian-Americans
are that the Congressman--in addition to helping to secure increased aid to
Armenia, continued aid to Karabagh, and military aid parity for Armenia and
Azerbaijan--helped to write the legislation for the Millennium Challenge
Account, which earlier that day granted $235 million to build roads and
irrigation systems in rural Armenia. Hamparian urged all in attendance to
encourage increased support for the Congressman as he rises in seniority and
influence in the political system.
Among the community leaders form various organizations was the Very Reverend
Father Anoushavan Tanielian, representing Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan of the
Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church, who was in Washington, DC for the
signing at the State Department of a new foreign aid agreement with Armenia.
Hrachia Tashchian, the Counselor for Armenia's Mission to the UN, represented
Ambassador Armen Martirosyan, who was unable to attend due to urgent
diplomatic
developments.
12) Sponsor A Family Program to Help Needy in Armenia
With so many families in Armenia living below the poverty line, the Sponsor A
Family Program helps needy Armenian families who would otherwise not have
sufficient food and shelter. So far, the program has helped save many families
from becoming homeless and children from being sent to orphanages.
The Sponsor A Family program allows individuals from the diaspora sponsor and
aid qualifying families in Armenia. Volunteers from the organization find
families in Armenia that are in dire need of financial assistance. Local
social
workers visit the families and determine whether they are eligible to
participate in the program.
Families that are chosen to participate in the program receive donations from
the organization to use toward food, shelter, and other daily necessities.
Donors and sponsors receive a videotape, photographs, and information about
the
family they are helping. They may even directly contact the family.
One family that benefited from the program was about to be thrown out of
their
home because they could not pay their rent. The program provided the family
with one month's rent as they worked to find alternative financial
resources to
help the family.
Another family, a mother and son, needed additional funds to purchase a
"domig," which is a construction trailer built like a home with windows. The
mother's legs were amputated so she was unable to work. The organization
helped
them purchase the "domig" and to get the necessary permits from the city, with
the help of a private donation.
The Sponsor A Family Program is a part of the Ghazarian Foundation. The
Ghazarian Foundation was founded in 1999 by Zuhrab and Seta Ghazarian in order
to help families in Armenia. To make a tax-deductible donation, 100 percent of
which will go directly to the family, please contact the Ghazarian Foundation
at 3610 Aster Street in Seal Beach, CA 90740 or via email at
[email protected]. Please include your address, phone number, or email
address with all inquiries. The Foundation's website is
<http://www.nhffoundations.net/GhazarianFoun dation>www.nhffoundations.net/G
hazarianFoundat ion.
13) ATP Launches Environmental Education Curriculum
YEREVAN--The Regional Environmental Center for the Caucasus hosted the
official
release last week of Armenia Tree Project's new environmental education
curriculum, "Plant an Idea, Plant a Tree." The curriculum was developed last
year by Armenia Tree Project (ATP) in collaboration with Dr. Karla Wesley.
The curriculum was recently approved as a teacher's manual for use in public
schools all over Armenia by the Ministry of Education and Science. In addition
to Dr. Wesley and ATP Environmental Education Program Manager Gayane
Ghukasyan,
many others who contributed to the development of the publication were
present,
including Luba Balyan of the Birds of Armenia NGO and Sirvard Mamikonyan of
the
USDA's Center for Agribusiness and Rural Development.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Education,
Yerevan State University, World Wildlife Fund, and other NGOs, as well as
teachers and principals from various schools. The Royal Netherlands Embassy
funded the printing of the curriculum for each school in Armenia, and many of
the guests were interested in obtaining additional copies from ATP.
Dr. Gayane Ghukasyan welcomed the participants and announced that 1,450
schools in Armenia will receive the book for use in its environmental
education
program. She explained that ATP has already established cooperation with 13
schools, which are using the publication in their youth clubs.
Karen Melkonyan, head of the curriculum evaluation department of the Ministry
of Education expressed his appreciation for the interactive methods in the
curriculum, and recommended it to all schools in Armenia. "One of the
advantages of this publication is the new teaching methods suggested, which
create better and long lasting understanding," stated Dr. Melkonyan. "The
author has studied Armenian culture and nature--which is very gratifying--and
used it as examples in the curriculum."
"Armenian culture at its best reveals the relationship between human being
and
nature. That is why children of Armenia should not forget about the
magnificent
culture they inherited to preserve and be proud of," replied Dr. Wesley in her
remarks. "This publication presents very informative and useful material that
can be used by all educators dealing with scientific subjects in schools
throughout Armenia," stated Anahit Bakhshyan, the principal of School No. 27,
who also commended ATP and the creators of the curriculum.
An electronic version of ATP's environmental education curriculum is
available
in English and Armenian at the following link:
armeniatree.org/whatwedo/eea.htm.
14) Woulda Been Nice
By Garen Yegparian
I know you'll be very surprised to learn that we won't have passage of a
Genocide Resolution--neither HR 316 nor HCR 195--by April 24 of this year.
That
is of course if you live on another planet.
Both were passed by the House International Relations Committee back on
September 15, 2005. But they haven't been brought to the floor of the House of
Representatives. Why?
That's politics. So I decided to contact two of the Congressional
champions of
this effort--Representatives Adam Schiff and George Radanovich.
Both agreed a resolution was unlikely to pass this year. Both agreed that
if a
resolution made it to the floor of the House, it would pass. Both agree the
Department of State (DOS) is where effort must be expended to change the
existing, I would say antiquated and ossified, pro-Turkey orientation.
According to Radanovich, the problem is the White House, and its primary
source of direction on this issue--the State Department. The Speaker of the
House, Dennis Hastert is unwilling to put the President, George Bush, in a
tight spot (remember, the House is controlled by the same party as the White
House, although the same thing happened even when Clinton was president).
According to Schiff, there is a division of labor among those pursuing
passage
of a Genocide resolution. He is working on the State Department while his
Republican colleagues work on the Speaker of the House. Radanovich had met
with
Hastert recently, presumably based on a request for a meeting some months ago.
Why the delay? My guess is Hastert's unwillingness to bring this to the floor
despite his promise to do so. I can't imagine there was such a great delay
when
former Congressman-turned-Turkish-lobbyist Livingston met, on September 7,
2005, with Speaker Hastert, then Majority Leader Tom Delay, Majority Whip Roy
Blunt, and (majority) Staff Director Thomas Mooney. I'd love to know exactly
what was discussed, but it's not hard to guess. The legally required filing
made by such lobbyists reads:
"Mr. Livingston met with the following [see above] Members of Congress and
Congressional Staffer to deliver a package of information on Turkish/Armenian
issues, and to discuss possible Congressional consideration of HCR 195 and HR
316:"
Schiff attended a meeting with a Deputy Secretary of State, accompanied by
other Congressional supporters' staffers. There, he tried to secure
support, or
at least non-opposition, for the resolutions. He would not disclose details,
since he'd asked for a candid, and confidential, presentation of DOS thoughts
on the issue. He also expressed his concerns regarding the Ambassador Evans
situation.
Ultimately, Schiff thinks that if a resolution doesn't pass by April 24, then
a discharge motion may be required. This means at least 218 cosponsors are
required on the resolution, i.e. a majority of the Representatives, which then
allows it to be brought to the floor, circumventing the Speaker. Radanovich
didn't think this would work, despite his statement that if there were a
Genocide resolution to be brought to the floor, enough votes existed for
passage. He was a bit rushed, having stepped out of a committee meeting for
the
interview, but he didn't explain this apparent contradiction. If there are
enough votes, couldn't those be brought on as cosponsors to bring the issue to
the floor for a vote? Perhaps implicit in his comments was the matter of party
loyalty, and the understandable hesitation some Republicans might have to
bucking their leadership.
So what are we to do? Schiff anticipated a massive, unprecedented effort by
our community and its supporters to realize passage. Radanovich advocates a
slower, DOS-policy changing, White House-converting approach.
Can we get the massive public outcry required for the discharge motion? Have
we developed enough support and friends among other constituencies throughout
the country who would help in this effort? Would they go to bat for us at this
time for this reason? And even if we do, what of Senate passage? Then there's
White House/DOS adoption of appropriate policy.
Do we have the kind of money, or willingness to generate it, that would go
head-to-head with Turkish lobbying dollars? If we do, are we willing to stoop
to the kind of "buying" of support that has tainted two members of the House
leadership? Tom Delay renounced his reelection bid, clearly as a
consequence of
his indictment and attendant political woes. Dennis Hastert was implicated by
Sybil Edmonds, the Turkish language translator, in Vanity Fair, as someone who
has received tens of thousands of dollars from Turkish sources in a possibly
illegal fashion? What would that do to our moral high ground?
I'm more of a supporter of the people-power approach, but even that takes
money similar in scale, though not quite as much, as the lobbyist-using
approach. These are our choices as presented by our elected representatives.
They are clearly willing to follow our lead. Let's lead.
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