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Armenian from the suburbs of Athens Demonstration in front of the Turkish Embassy

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Azator On the evening of Saturday, April 16, 2022, in front of the Armenian Genocide Memorial of Nea Zmirni, an Armenian from the suburbs of Athens,

a solemn ceremony was held by Armenian mourners and a prayer of thanksgiving in memory of the consecrated victims of the Armenian Genocide. After the ceremony in front of the Armenian monument in Nea Zmirni, the people headed to the central Syntagma Square in Athens, where the ARF Dashnaktsutyun Young. Our young people and teenagers were already waiting for our compatriots in front of the union information booth to launch a protest march and demonstration at the Turkish Embassy. The crowd of more than a thousand people set off under the leadership of the ARF.

The members of the youth union, who were holding a large tricolor, presented an impressive scene during the whole march. The ARF followed. Young. The members of the union with large posters and tricolor flags, followed by the people. Throughout the march, slogans condemning the aggression of Turkey and Azerbaijan, calls for recognition of the Armenian Genocide, and calls condemning the Azerbaijani aggression on Artsakh were heard from the loudspeakers, which our youth and people unanimously shouted in unison. Friends of the Armenian National Committee (ANC) took control of the march, and significant police forces followed and monitored the march. It should be noted that journalists and photographers from Greek and foreign media followed the demonstration and responded to the demanding speeches of the Greek-Armenians.

The crowd marched in front of Rigilis Square, a few hundred meters from the Turkish embassy, ​​where this time, too, armored police vehicles and special forces blocked the road to the embassy building. The march stopped in the square and on the central avenue, where a special program was carried out, while the teenagers and young people, with flags and posters, formed a wide circle, behind which the people stood. An energetic delegation from the Youth Union headed to the embassy to hand over a memorandum on behalf of the people to the embassy officials. At the same time, the representatives of the Greek political parties and the Pontic Union spoke one by one and strongly condemned the fact that the Armenian Genocide went unpunished, the war unleashed by Azerbaijan on Artsakh, the Turkish aggression against Greece and the militaristic policies and bigotry.

ARF Youth Union members Natalie Ekizian and Maria Mardigian read messages on behalf of their union, and Yerit. Union Center on behalf of the department Vazgen Savulian presented the words of the Armenian youth and the promise to fight for the realization of the Armenian Cause, expressing the support of the Greek-Armenian youth to the fighting youth and people of Artsakh. Unfortunately, as in previous years, the doors of the Turkish Embassy remained closed to our young people once again, showing the Turkish state’s continuing wall of silence in the face of the undeniable reality of the Armenian Genocide.

The testimony of the police forces, which placed the memorandum on a tree in front of the embassy, ​​was categorically rejected by our young delegation, who returned to the gathered people without handing over the letter. On the spot, by the youth com. Lori Kouyoumdjian spoke from the loudspeaker in front of the embassy about the incident and strongly condemned the Turkish rejection. He stressed that the Armenian youth will continue its relentless struggle against Turkish denial, while the present people expressed their revolt for the reality with loud expressions. The young people placed a long rope on the road, symbolizing the number of one and a half million, which, while driving, created a sparkling image, and four young men released large wigs illuminated in the air, in which the burning fire rose upwards, symbolizing the bright memory and respect of our people. The crowded popular demonstration is over

Source: https://azator.gr/?p=19236&fbclid=IwAR2CX-pkPu2sUUrdjrkGojTitTNqN932dclQRJjgVVtmfuAJ6JZ3du13_oc

THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF ARMENIA IN LOS ANGELES HELD A FAREWELL RECEPTION IN HONOR OF THE CONSUL GENERAL OF ARMENIA AMBASSADOR ARMEN BAIBOURTIAN Videos & Photos

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GLENDALE – On February 25, the Consulate General of Armenia in Los 
Angeles organized a farewell reception for the Consul General of Armenia 
Ambassador Armen Baibourtian on the occasion of successful completion of 
his mission.

The event took place in the banquet hall of the Armenian 
Society of Los Angeles in Glendale. The reception was attended by U.S. 
elected and appointed officials, including members of California 
State Senate and Assembly, Los Angeles City Council, Glendale Mayor and 
City Council, U.S. Department of State, spirituals leaders of the 
Armenian community, leaders, and representatives of political, 
benevolent, youth, cultural organizations, and public figures. More than 
500 guests attended the reception. The event’s Mistress of Ceremonies 
was Araksya Karapetyan, an Armenian-born American renowned television 
personality and anchor for the Los Angeles-based KTTV FOX11.
Speeches were delivered on the occasion by His Eminence Archbishop 
Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church 
of North America, His Grace Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate of the 
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America, the Most 
Reverend Mikael Mouradian, Bishop of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of 
the US and Canada, Rev. Hendrik Shanazarian, Minister to the Armenian 
Evangelical Union of North America, and former Primate of Artsakh His 
Eminence Archbishop Pargev Martirosyan. Among the American officials, 
California State Senator Anthony Portantino, Los Angeles County 
Supervisor Kathryn Barger, California State Assembly members Chris 
Holden and Laura Friedman, Los Angeles City Council members Paul 
Krekorian, Kevin De Leon, John Lee, Mitch O’Farrell, Los Angeles City 
Attorney Mike Feuer, Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang, and Mayor 
of Glendale, Paula Devine took the floor.

They highly appreciated the 
work of three and a half years of Consul General Baibourtian, 
emphasizing his role in elevating the cooperation between Armenia and 
California to a completely new height and exercising leadership in 
strengthening the partnership with the community, and bridging it with 
the Homeland. The City of Los Angeles adopted a special resolution on 
February 8, 2022 honoring Consul General Armen Baibourtian for his 
contribution to strengthening the bonds of partnership with Los Angeles, 
which was presented to him by Councilmember Krekorian.

He received 
similar award from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors by 
Supervisor Barger, and Certificates of Recognition and Gratitude from 
senators and assemblymembers. Mayor Devine handed over to Ambassador 
Baibourtian a symbolic key to the City of Glendale. State, city, and 
county officials highly appreciated the path and journey he has gone 
through and the depth of fruitful cooperation cultivated with him.
Among the many who also delivered speeches and commended Ambassador 
Baibourtian were public figure, attorney Rafi Ourfalian, former Minister 
of Culture of Armenia Armen Amiryan, and Counselor of the Consulate 
General Varazdat Pahlavuni. Editor-in-Chief of Massis Weekly Krikor 
Khodanian, Ararat Brandy Company representative Karen Meymaryan, 
community figure Marat Hayrapetyan, and painter Tigran Hovumyan 
presented the Consul General with appreciation awards and a portrait.
Amongst the attendees were His Eminence Archbishop Moushegh 
Mardirossian, former Prelate of the Western Prelacy, Rev. Berdj 
Djambazian of the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America, the U.S. 
Department of State’s OFM Los Angeles Regional Director Gretchen Franke, 
Judge of the Superior Court of Los Angeles Armenui Amy Ashvanian, Judge 
Arleta Shirinyan, Glendale Police Department Police Chief Carl 
Povilaitis, Military Attaché of the Embassy of Armenia in Washington, 
D.C. Colonel Arman Mkrtchyan and Counselor Arakel Semirjyan, Honorary 
Consul of Armenia in Chicago Oscar Tatosian, Honorary Consul of Armenia 
in Las Vegas  Adroushan Andy Armenian, Honorary Consul of Armenia in 
Fresno Berj Apkarian, and President of the San Jose State University Dr. 
Mary Papazian.


During the event, a film titled “The Armenian Diplomat: A Story of 
Service to the Nation” was shown devoted to Ambassador Armen 
Baibourtian.

These videos and photos depicted and reflected the 
the diplomatic path traversed by Ambassador Baibourtian, including his years 
of service in 1995-1997 as the first and inaugural Consul General of the 
Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles.
In addressing the participants of the event, Ambassador Baibourtian 
highlighted some of his implemented projects that were the first ones in 
California and even for Armenia abroad. In particular, he spoke about 
the first-ever business conference “California-Armenia: Trade and 
Investment Opportunities” held out of Armenia that he organized in Los 
Angeles in 1996.


He also referred to the first Framework Agreement on Cooperation between 
California and Armenia signed in 2019, which laid a solid ground for 
the bilateral legal framework of partnership.
He touched upon the first Armenian event in Los Angeles that gathered 
20,000 participants in front of the Los Angeles City Hall at Grand Park 
during the visit of the Prime Minister of Armenia in 2019. That number 
doesn’t count marches, like the Armenian Genocide March for Justice in 
2015 or March for Peace during the 44-day Artsakh war in 2020.
Ambassador Baibourtian also brought his contribution to the latter one. 
He also mentioned the joint event at the Consulate General of Armenia 
organized jointly with the Pan-Armenian Council of Western USA during 
the first days of the 44-day war of aggression against Artsakh in 2020, 
when the Armenian community leadership and the Consul General of Armenia 
jointly appealed to the entire Armenian community to strongly support 
the struggling Homeland. During this sole event, $3,3 mln was raised.
Ambassador Baibourtian and his team were attending fundraising community 
events on daily basis, thus contributing to the hike in raised amounts. 
He stated that the City Council of Los Angeles, the second-largest U.S. 
city, adopted four resolutions condemning the Azerbaijani aggression.
He also spoke about programs, numerous joint initiatives, and 
accomplishments during his diplomatic tenure, all thanks to the 
ever-growing and close partnership with the Armenian community. He 
expressed his profound gratitude to the entire community.
In the cultural part of the farewell event, led by Lusine Piroyan, 
renowned artists like singer Harout Pamboukjian, duduk player Jivan 
Gasparyan Jr., musician Greg Hosharyan, Gevorkian Dance Academy 
performers, and singer Anahit Nersisyan enchanted the event with their 
heartfelt performances.

ԼՈՍ ԱՆՋԵԼԵՍՈՒՄ ՀՀ ԳԼԽԱՎՈՐ ՀՅՈՒՊԱՏՈՍՈՒԹՅՈՒՆԸ ԿԱԶՄԱԿԵՐՊԵԼ ԷՐ ՀՀ ԳԼԽԱՎՈՐ 
ՀՅՈՒՊԱՏՈՍ, ԴԵՍՊԱՆ ԱՐՄԵՆ ԲԱՅԲՈՒՐԴՅԱՆԻ ՀՐԱԺԵՇՏԻ ՄԻՋՈՑԱՌՈՒՄ՝ ԼՈՍ ԱՆՋԵԼԵՍՈՒՄ 
ԻՐ ԱՌԱՔԵԼՈՒԹՅՈՒՆԸ ՀԱՋՈՂՈՒԹՅԱՄԲ ԱՎԱՐՏԵԼՈՒ ԿԱՊԱԿՑՈՒԹՅԱՄԲ

ANCA-WR Hosts a Farewell Reception for Mayor Garcetti

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By Verginie Touloumian,

On February 17, 2022, more than 100 community leaders, public officials, and supporters attended the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region’s (ANCA-WR) Farewell Reception in honor of Los Angeles Mayor, Eric Garcetti who will embark on a new career as U.S. Ambassador to India. 

ANCA-WR Board Vice-Chair, Raffi Kassabian who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, welcomed the guests and thanked them for joining the event to show appreciation to the Mayor for his distinguished leadership and service to Los Angeles and his long-standing friendship and solidarity with our Community. 

Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Bishop Mikael Mouradian of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of North America, and Very Rev. Hendrik Shanazarian of the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America jointly conducted the invocation for the evening. 

After a brief dinner break, Nina Hachigian, Deputy Mayor of International Affairs for the City of Los Angeles and a member of the Pentagon’s Defense Policy Board took the stage. In her remarks, she thanked the Mayor for his leadership and support of the Armenian community and thanked him for his service. “When I first came to work for Mayor Garcetti, I thought this guy was more Armenian than I am. Those of you who have had the pleasure of hearing him speak at our marches, know that he does not leave anything on the table, he says exactly what he thinks and believes and is not afraid to fight for justice,” stated Hachigian. 

Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian spoke about his friendship with the Mayor and remarked “Mayor Garcetti has stood for and fought for the values the Armenian-American community represents and the priorities it has, from his time as an LA City Councilmember to his position as Mayor.” 

Armenia’s Consul General to Los Angeles Ambassador Armen Baibourtian, who previously served as Ambassador to India, thanked Mayor Garcetti for being a great friend of Armenia and shared his first-hand knowledge about the small Armenian community of India, which is considered to be one of India’s oldest trading communities, urging him to visit the Armenian community in Kolkata and continue his friendship with Armenians during his new assignment. 

Representing Congressmember Brad Sherman was his Field Representative, Taleen Keuroghlyan, who presented an American flag flown above the U.S. Capitol on the day of President Biden’s Inauguration as a token of gratitude. Then, City of Glendale Mayor Paula Devine, joined by Glendale City Councilmembers Ardashes Ardy Kassakhian, Ara Najarian, and Dan Brotman, jointly thanked Mayor Garcetti for being a great role model and presented him with a certificate of recognition. 

ANCA-WR Chair Nora Hovsepian, Esq. then took the stage to deliver the organization’s message. Hovsepian recalled how Mayor Garcetti made the beautification of Little Armenia one of his top priorities, visited Armenia with the ANCA-WR, established the Yerevan-Los Angeles Sister City, hired talented, trusted, and committed staff from the Armenian Community as part of his administration, welcomed high-level officials with open arms to City Hall from the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Artsakh, spearheaded the cancellation of a huge lobbying contract between the City and the Gephardt Group, which was notorious for its pro-Turkey and anti-Armenian work, and marched alongside the Armenian Community each year during Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, even ensuring that the City incurred all the expenses on the occasion of the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide March for Justice in 2015. 

“Eric Garcetti’s commitment to our community and to our Cause has been consistent, steadfast, reliable, and unwavering even in the face of intense political pressure from our enemies,” stated Hovsepian. “Mayor Garcetti has always listened to our concerns with a level of understanding and empathy that we don’t often find, encouraging our community to become more civically engaged, advocating for and securing Armenian language election ballots and materials to help accomplish that goal; helping to find much-needed funding for community services offered by the Armenian Relief Society, Homenetmen, Armenian Youth Federation, Armenian Bone Marrow Registry, and many other worthy programs,” she continued. 

Hovsepian then invited ANCA-WR Board members to join her in presenting a Dove of Peace sculpture made by Michael Aram, a token of appreciation and gratitude to Mayor Garcetti for his years of friendship and solidarity with the Armenian Community and Cause. Accepting the award, Mayor Garcetti thanked the ANCA-WR for the evening and spoke about his long-standing relationship with the Armenian community. Garcetti specifically thanked all Armenian-American staffers who have worked with him over the years and his friends at the ANCA-Hollywood Chapter who have been working with him since his time as a Councilmember. He reminisced about his trip to Armenia with the ANCA-WR, and thanked those who “make sure that Mount Hollywood and Mount Ararat are forever linked together.” Staring at his Dove of Peace sculpture, he recalled the story of when he  “visited Khor Virab, and in the shadow of Mount Ararat,” remembered that a dove came to tell humanity that the flood was over. “The dove reminds me that the Armenian nation has been a light in this world and is a testament that this nation cannot be destroyed,” he reflected. Mayor Garcetti also spoke about how he has had the privilege of hosting several elected officials from the Republics of Armenia and Artsakh, and mentioned how important it is “for the City of Los Angeles and the United States to always affirm its support and to exercise our power to defend the truth and our friends,” he continued. He added that “the Armenian community has built a glorious Diasporan community and makes this city magnificent.”

At the end of the ceremony, Anna Mouradian, Chief of Staff of Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Office, presented a commendation certificate on behalf of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Throughout the night, pictures of Mayor Garcetti at community events and with Armenian community leaders were displayed on-screen.

Dignitaries and elected officials in attendance included LA Deputy Mayor Amb. Nina Hachigian, CA State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Paul Krekorian, Paul Koretz, and Kevin De Leon, City of Glendale Mayor Paula Devine, City of Glendale Councilmembers Ara Najarian, Ardashes Ardy Kassakhian, Vrej Agajanian, and Dan Brotman, City of Glendale City Manager Roubik Golanian, City of Glendale Police Chief Carl Povilaitis, Judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court Hon. Michael R. Amerian, Los Angeles County Commission for Women President Alice Petrossian, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Chief Deputy Anna Mouradian, LA Mayor’s Executive Assistant Lynnette Amerian, Councilmember Krekorian’s Chief of Staff Karo Torossian, Councilmember Koretz’s Director of Public Safety & Special Assignments Greg Martayan,  CA Senator Anthony Portantino’s Communications Director Lerna Shirinian, and Former Mayor of Montebello Jack Hadjinian. 

Representatives from the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America, Executive Council of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, Armenian Cultural Foundation, Armenian Relief Society, Ararat Home, Armenian General Benevolent Union, Armenian Revolutionary Federation, Armenian American Museum, Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Bar Association, and ANCA-Professional Network were also in attendance.

Pashinyan Criminal regime police apprehending POW’s families, who are blocking Marshal Baghramyan Avenue

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The police have apprehended opposition activist Vahagn Chakhalyan, a member of the Kamq (Will) initiative, from Marshal Baghramyan Avenue—in front of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia building, where a demonstration of the relatives of the missing and captured servicemen is taking place.

These protesters have closed off the aforementioned avenue.

At one point, a shoving match occurred between police and protesters, and police began apprehending some demonstrators.

These missing and captured soldiers’ families, who are protesting at the entrance of the NA since the morning and have blocked Derenik Demirchyan Street—at the side entrance to the Armenian parliament building—have now closed off Marshal Baghramyan Avenue—in front of the main NA entrance.

They are protesting the fact that NA speaker Alen Simonyan had called the captive Armenian servicemen “deserters.”

Armenian American Museum Hosts Donor Appreciation Receptions

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GLENDALE—The Armenian American Museum hosted a series of donor appreciation receptions to celebrate the commencement of construction on the landmark center and honor the generous support of the museum’s Benefactors, Legacy Council, and Founder’s Circle members who have contributed to making the historic milestone a reality.

Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian welcomed guests to the receptions on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Board of Governors, expressing the organization’s gratitude to the valued donors.

“The cultural and educational center dedicated to our history, culture, and heritage was once a mere idea,” stated Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian. “Today, we celebrate the construction of the Armenian American Museum that is turning our dreams into reality – a milestone that would not be possible without your generous support.”

Executive Director Shant Sahakian provided a progress report on the development of the museum’s programming for the Permanent Exhibition, Temporary Exhibitions, Auditorium, Learning Center, Demonstration Kitchen, and Archives Center as well as the construction underway at the museum campus in Glendale Central Park.

“We are grateful to have the opportunity to provide an exciting progress report on not only the construction of a building but the creation of a world-class institution that is going to serve and enrich the lives of students, families, and community members for generations to come,” stated Executive Director Shant Sahakian.

The receptions were sponsored by Edison International, a valued early corporate partner of the museum.

“Edison International is honored to continue its support of the Armenian American Museum and its mission to build a center that will showcase the Armenian American experience and create bridges between the many diverse communities in California,” stated Edison Director of Public Affairs Zanku Armenian. “Edison is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and this museum will stand as a testament to those values and the contributions of the Armenian American community.”

The Benefactors and Legacy Council Appreciation Reception was held at Vertigo Event Venue on November 23. The Founder’s Circle Appreciation Reception was held at L.A. Banquets Brandview Ballroom on November 17.

To learn more about the museum’s donor programs and opportunities, visit the website.

The mission of the Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California is to promote understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Armenian American experience. The vision is a cultural campus that enriches the community, educates the public on the Armenian American story, and empowers individuals to embrace cultural diversity and speak out against prejudice.

CONSUL GENERAL OF ARMENIA AMBASSADOR ARMEN BAIBOURTIAN TOOK PART IN THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY GALA OF THE ARMENIAN AMERICAN MEDICAL SOCIETY

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GLENDALE – On November 20, Consul General of Armenia in Los Angeles Ambassador Armen Baibourtian took part in an event dedicated to the 35th-anniversary gala celebration of the Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS). During the event, the (AAMS) honored the Armenian Medical International Committee (AMIC) in grateful recognition of its valuable contributions. Both organizations collaborate by implementing and realizing numerous joint projects, one of which was the response to aid Armenia’s needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, including facilitating training and procuring medical supplies. Moreover, both AAMS and AMIC collaborated and provided humanitarian relief and medical aid to Artsakh during the 44-day war.

Ambassador Baibourtian congratulated the AAMS on its 35th anniversary. Furthermore, the Consul General stressed the importance of the projects, which the organization implemented and emphasized, in particular, on projects aimed towards Artsakh and Armenia. «The work and contribution of the Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) and the Armenian Medical International Committee (AMIC) carried out in the Homeland and in Artsakh throughout the 44-day war and during the COVID-19 pandemic is invaluable, especially, the efforts to help raise funds to purchase and establish the Cryogen Center/Oxygen Generator for the Homeland. Also, I highly appreciate the constant professional development of the organization’s membership, as well as the effective cooperation with the Consulate General of Armenia in Los Angeles», said Ambassador Baibourtian in his remarks.

The Consul General presented Certificates of Appreciation to the President of the Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) Dr. Kevin Galstyan and to the President of the Armenian Medical International Committee (AMIC) Dr. Vicken Sepilian.The Armenian Medical International Committee (AMIC) serves as a coordinating umbrella for various Armenian medical organizations in the Diaspora. The organization’s mission is to improve the healthcare system of Armenia through coordinated efforts among participating organizations.The Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) is the largest Armenian medical organization worldwide with a 35-year history. AAMS provides comprehensive support and aid in the field of healthcare and humanitarian assistance. Its mission is to promote excellence in healthcare and to cultivate professional development opportunities, through service and education for representatives of the healthcare sectors in the Homeland and the Armenian Diaspora. Upon the request of Consul General Baibourtian last year, AAMS provided medical treatment to a tangible number of citizens of Armenia in California who were not able to return to Armenia due to the closure of borders as a result of the pandemic.

ՀՀ ԳԼԽԱՎՈՐ ՀՅՈՒՊԱՏՈՍ, ԴԵՍՊԱՆ ԱՐՄԵՆ ԲԱՅԲՈՒՐԴՅԱՆԸ ՄԱՍՆԱԿՑԵԼ Է ՀԱՅ-ԱՄԵՐԻԿՅԱՆ ԲԺՇԿԱԿԱՆ ԸՆԿԵՐԱԿՑՈՒԹՅԱՆ 35-ԱՄՅԱ ՀՈԲԵԼՅԱՆԻՆ ՆՎԻՐՎԱԾ ՄԻՋՈՑԱՌՄԱՆԸ
ԳԼԵՆԴԵՅԼ – Նոյեմբերի 20-ին Լոս Անջելեսում ՀՀ գլխավոր հյուպատոս, դեսպան Արմեն Բայբուրյդնաը մասնակցել է Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցության (AAMS) 35-ամյա հոբելյանին նվիրված միջոցառմանը։ Հանդիսավոր երեկոյի ընթացքում կազմակերպությունը պատվի է արժանացրել Հայկական բժշկական միջազգային կոմիտեին (AMIC)` որը համակարգում է Սփյուռքի տարբեր բժշկական ընկերակցությունների հայանպաստ գործունեությունը։ Երկու կազմակերպությունները իրականացնում են բազմաթիվ համատեղ նախագծեր, որոնցից է համավարակի ընթացքում Հայաստանի կարիքներին արձագանքելը։ Դրանք համագործակցել են նաև 44-օրյա պատերազմի օրերին Արցախին մարդասիրական և բժշկական օգնություն հատկացնելու գործում։Դեսպան Բայբուրդյանն շեշտել է Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցության ու Հայկական բժշկական միջազգային կոմիտեի ծրագրերի կարևորությունը՝ ընդգծելով հատկապես Արցախին և Հայաստանին ուղղված նախագծերը։ «Անգնահատելի են Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցության և Հայկական բժշկական միջազգային կոմիտեի աշխատանքները՝ իրականացված Հայրենիքում և Արցախում 44-օրյա պատերազմի և համավարակի օրերին, հատկապես կրիոգեն կենտրոնի ստեղծումը և թթվածնի արտադրության հիմնադրումը։ Բարձր եմ գնահատում նաև կազմակերպությունների անդամների մասնագիտական շարունակական կատարելագործումը, ինչպես նաև սերտ համագործակցությունը Լոս Անջելեսում ՀՀ գլխավոր հյուպատոսության հետ», իր ելույթում նշել է ՀՀ գլխավոր հյուպատոսը։ Նա գնահատանքի հավաստագրեր է հանձնել Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցության նախագահ Քևին Գալստյանին և Հայկական բժշկական միջազգային կոմիտեի նախագահ Վիգեն Սեփիլյանին։Հայկական բժշկական միջազգային կոմիտեի նպատակն է բարելավել Հայաստանի առողջապահական համակարգը մասնակից կազմակերպությունների միասնական ջանքերով։Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցությունն բժշկական ոլորտի խոշորագույն հայկական կազմակերպությունն է աշխարհում։ Այն մատուցում է առողջապահական ոլորտի բազմաբնույթ աջակցություն և մարդասիրական օգնություն, ինչպես նաև մասնագիտական զարգացման հնարավորություններ Հայրենիքի և Սփյուռքի առողջապահական ոլորտի ներկայացուցիչների համար։ Անցյալ տարի համավարակի պայմաններում, ՀՀ գլխավոր հյուպատոս Բայբուրդյանի խնդրանքով՝ Հայ-ամերիկյան բժշկական ընկերակցությունը մեծ թվով ՀՀ քաղաքացիների Կալիֆորնիայում անվճար բժշկական օգնություն տրամադրեց, երբ վերջիններս չէին կարող վերադառնալ Հայաստան սահմանների փակ լինելու պայմաններում։

Los Angeles: Gagrule.net Live coverage ANCA-WR Grassroots Luncheon Honors Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Dr. Arman Tatoyan at 2021 Videos

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Beverly Hills, California

Hundreds of activists, community leaders, public officials, supporters, and generous donors attended the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region’s Grassroots Luncheon hosted at the Beverly Hilton on November 21, where Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Dr. Arman Tatoyan was bestowed the ANCA-WR’s “Human Rights Champion” Award for his tireless work in upholding the rights of the Armenian people.

ANCA-WR is a leading Armenian-American organization for a two-week hosted Dr. Tatoyan delegation trip to engage with community stakeholders, elected officials, academic circles, coalition partners as well as local and national media to provide a briefing on the current situation, including presenting on his latest reports on Azerbaijan’s torture and abuse of Armenian prisoners of war and civilian captives.

Immediately prior to the luncheon, Dr. Tatoyan participated in a press conference where he briefed local and community media on Azerbaijan’s November 16 incursion and assault on the Republic of Armenia which resulted in the deaths of at least 8 Armenian servicemembers and the capture of at least a dozen more – whom international human rights organizations have already noted have been subject to abuse and torture. Dr. Tatoyan also briefed the media on the status of prisoners of war, and ongoing international legal efforts – specifically, through Armenia’s trial against Azerbaijan at the International Court of Justice over its violation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

The press conference was followed by the outdoor luncheon held at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel, which began with an invocation delivered by the Very Reverend Muron Aznikian of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church and opening remarks welcoming dignitaries and honored guests delivered by ANCA-WR Board Member Lina Davidian Esq.

Following the video presentation, ANCA-WR Board Chair Nora Hovsepian, Esq. took to the stage and thanked all the generous donors whose support and encouragement continue to inspire the ANCA-WR team, and especially the event sponsors, Mr. & Mrs. Varant and Hoori Melkonian, for their unwavering support. In delivering the organizational message, Hovsepian emphasized the need for the Armenian-American community to remain laser-focused in its mission to ensure the security of the Armenian nation.

ANCA-WR Board Chair Nora Hovsepian, Esq Speech

ANCA-WR Vice-Chair Raffi Kassabian Esq., Presenting the ANCA-WR’s “Human Rights Champion” Award to Dr. Tatoyan was who highlighted the honoree’s tireless pursuit of justice in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. “Dr. Tatoyan is the embodiment of courage. When others in government turned a blind eye, Dr. Tatoyan demanded accountability from the perpetrator regime. When others acquiesced to the defeat to the enemy after the 44-day war, Dr. Tatoyan raised alarms in the international community to invoke justice,” Kassabian remarked.

“And when Azerbaijan attempted to sweep its heinous genocidal conduct under the rug, Dr. Tatoyan pointedly engaged in a fact-finding mission to expose Azerbaijan for what it is – a modern-day genocidal regime,” Kassabian continued.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Tatoyan reported on Azerbaijan’s recent assault on the Armenian people, highlighting how Azerbaijan’s state-sponsored Armenophobia serves as a driving force behind Azerbaijan’s ongoing aggression against the Armenian people. Dr. Tatoyan also sent a strong message to the Diaspora, thanking the community for its vigilance in advocating for the rights of the people of Armenia – and urging unity in the face of Azerbaijan and Turkey’s efforts to sow artificial divisions between the Armenian people. In thanking the ANCA-WR for hosting him in California, Dr. Tatoyan issued a certificate of recognition to Nora Hovsepian on behalf of the ANCA-WR Board for the organization’s tireless advocacy work. Certificates of recognition were also issued to distinguished legal experts Garo Ghazarian, Esq. and Karnig Kerkonian, Esq. for their critical contributions to holding Turkey and Azerbaijan accountable for the egregious human rights abuses perpetrated against the Armenian people under international law and for their steadfast support and collaboration with of the office of Armenia’s Human Rights Defender.

DR. Aramn Tatoyan Speech

REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH STATE MINISTER ARTAK BEGLARYAN ADDRESSES ARTSAKH’S CURRENT STATE OF AFFAIRS AT A PUBLIC FORUM ORGANIZED BY THE PAN-ARMENIAN COUNCIL OF WESTERN USA

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 Artak Beglaryan, the State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh, on October 25, 2021 held a press conference followed by his keynote address at a public forum organized by the Pan-Armenian Council of Western United States, at the Armenian Society of Los Angeles (Iranahye) Center, located in Glendale, California. 

At the press conference, Beglaryan fielded questions from members of the print and television media. He was joined during the conference and public forum by Mr. Davit Akopyan, Chief Advisor to Mr. Beglaryan. Zaven Khanjian, Executive Director and CEO of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA), which had invited Beglaryan to the United States as the keynote speaker of its annual meeting and banquet, provided introductory remarks welcoming the State Minister, and explained his vital role during Artsakh’s recent history, particularly during the 2020 war of aggression brought on by Azerbaijan, and its aftermath. 

During the hour-long press conference, moderated by Garo Ghazarian, attorney and co-host of the “Frontlines-Artsakh” program, Minister Beglaryan addressed a broad range of inquiries ranging from the plight of Armenian refugees and prisoners of war to accountability for the funds raised in the diaspora for humanitarian assistance to the Artsakh people. From 2018 to 2020, Beglaryan served as the Human Rights Ombudsman of Artsakh, before being appointed to his current post as State Minister of the Republic. 

Immediately following the press conference, invited guests gathered for a private reception in honor of Minister Beglaryan. Among those in attendance was Los Angeles Consul General for the Republic of Armenia, Ambassador Dr. Armen Baibourtian, City of Glendale Police Department Chief Carl Povilaitis and the entire command staff of the Glendale Police Department, Lena Bozoyan, Chairwoman of the Pan-Armenian Council, and the leadership of the respective PAC members. The attendees toasted in honor of Minister Beglaryan, applauding his exemplary service to the Armenian people of Artsakh, and to the Armenian nation. 

The program then continued in the grand hall of the Armenian Society Center where a capacity audience came to listen to Mr. Beglaryan’s remarks. Dr. Vahram Shemmassian, Director and Professor of the Armenian Studies Program at California State University, Northridge, opened the public forum by welcoming the audience and asking them to stand for the playing of the national anthems of the United States of America and the Republics of 

Armenia and Artsakh. This was followed by a moment of silence in honor of all those who lost their lives last year during the war. Thereafter, Lena Bozoyan provided an inspiring welcoming address where she emphasized that the struggle for the liberation of Artsakh continues through the tireless service of Minister Beglaryan and his fellow Artsakh citizens towards achievement of the national aspirations of the Armenian people. Garo Ghazarian then gave a moving introduction of Minister Beglaryan by reciting a beautifully penned letter by his daughter Ani, who three years ago, at 17, had described the profound impact Beglaryan had on her and others of her generation, motivating her to seek a career devoted to public service and human rights. 

Minister Beglaryan then made his presentation. During the hour-long address, he offered the attendees an outline of his well-developed five-point plan for the future of Artsakh. He emphasized his vision as follows: Security of Artsakh’s borders and its people, education, economic development, repatriation and engagement in the civic life of Artsakh. He emphasized that if someone calls themselves an Armenian, they must become a part of Artsakh’s life by living there or by offering their particular expertise in service to Artsakh. It is through such full engagement in Artsakh that internationally recognized statehood for the Republic will be achieved. Minister Beglaryan elaborated on each of these five points covering a broad range of topics from the role of Russian peacekeepers to the legal status of Artsakh. At the conclusion of his formal remarks, Mr. Beglaryan responded to approximately twenty questions from audience members, moderated by Garo Ghazarian. 

Minister Beglaryan lost his eyesight as a child in 1995, when a landmine he found in his family’s yard exploded. His father had died in battle during the first Artsakh War of Liberation just two years earlier. He then lost his mother at the age of 16 and, it was then that Minister Beglaryan found his life’s purpose and mission. Mr. Beglaryan had studied in Yerevan, at a school for the visually impaired from 1995-2006. Coming home during summer breaks, he had attended the AMAA Camp in Stepanakert and credits his Christian education there as the bedrock of his commitment to public service. He graduated from Yerevan State University in 2010, subsequently studied business management in Thessaloniki, Greece as part of a student exchange program, and took part in international programs and research fellowships in the Czech Republic and Switzerland. He holds a Master’s Degree from the University College London in political science, security, and integration, and he has completed a public policy and administration program in the U.S., at Tufts University, Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. 

Lena Bozoyan, stated: “We are so grateful to our very distinguished guest, Minister Artak Beglaryan, who gave our community a frank and thorough analysis of the developments in Artsakh during the past year and his plans for Artsakh going forward. We look forward with great anticipation to continue our work and support of Minister Beglaryan and the Armenians of Artsakh.” The event was followed by a reception. 

The program is available for viewing in its entirety on the following social media platform link: https://youtu.be/4l7M4Sj5CuY 

PAN-ARMENIAN COUNCIL OF WESTERN USA 

Irvine Global Village Festival, Saturday, October 9 | 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Great Park

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Orange County’s premier multicultural event, the Irvine Global Village Festival, returns to Great Park this year for a full day of food, art, music, and a celebration of Irvine’s diverse community.

Join us Saturday, October 9, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., as we celebrate 20 years of fun. The annual festival incorporates the best of Irvine’s historic fall festivals and includes kids’ activities, local and global cuisine, an artisan’s marketplace, music, art, and exhibits.

Applications for sponsors and vendors are being accepted. Learn more and apply here(link is external).

Celebrating 20 Years of Food, Art, Music & Irvine’s Diverse Heritage and Culture!

Make plans to attend the City of Irvine’s signature festival on Saturday, October 9, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. at Great Park in Irvine.

The 2021 Irvine Global Village Festival will celebrate 20 years of community fun, in tandem with the 50th anniversary of the City of Irvine’s incorporation. The annual festival incorporates the best of Irvine’s historic fall festivals to offer more food, art, and music over a full day at Great Park.

Families will delight in an expanded Kids Village with crafts, interactive activities, and a petting zoo. Attendees of all ages will enjoy local and global cuisine, an artisan’s marketplace, music, art, and exhibits, all while attending Orange County’s premier festival.

On October 9, celebrate our multicultural community through music, art, food, and fun:

  • Taste a variety of food items, ranging from global cuisine to festival staples, with prices ranging from $3 to $6 per item.
  • Watch music and dance performances representing diverse genres and cultures.
  • Shop for a variety of handmade goods and art in the artisan’s marketplace.
  • Browse art exhibitions and displays showcasing traditional dress, culinary and religious traditions, and history.
  • Play in the expanded Kids Village, featuring a petting zoo, crafts, and interactive activities.
  • Ride the Great Park Balloon and Carousel. 

Find more details on festival happenings below:

ANCA-WR Announces New Date For 2021 Gala Banquet

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As a precautionary safety measure amidst the proliferation of the COVID-19 Delta variant throughout Los Angeles, the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR) Board of Directors has decided to postpone this year’s Gala Banquet to Sunday, November 14, 2021, to take place at the prestigious Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Highly anticipated each year, this will be the organization’s first in-person event since the COVID-19 pandemic forced it to announce a virtual awards night in 2020. That event was also canceled when Armenia and Artsakh were attacked last fall, focusing resources to address the humanitarian needs on the ground as well as the advocacy and media challenges in the U.S. Now, with the pandemic winding down, the 2021 Gala will celebrate the organization’s accomplishments over the past two years and will assist with fundraising efforts to ensure that the necessary resources will be available to effectively undertake the work still ahead.

“Since the safety and well-being of our community are of paramount importance to us, we decided to set a new date for this year’s Gala Banquet, and we will continue to closely monitor the situation,” remarked ANCA-WR Chair Nora Hovsepian, Esq. “We look forward to honoring deserving individuals at this year’s event as well as mobilizing our community around the immediate next steps in advancing the Armenian Cause.”

The ANCA-WR Gala is eagerly anticipated each year as the premier event for the Armenian-American community, where over a thousand supporters, community leaders, public officials, and coalition partners come together annually to acknowledge and encourage the work of the organization and to pay homage to honorees whose contribution to the Armenian Cause is recognized each year. As the largest event of its kind, the annual ANCA-WR Gala serves as a catalyst to unify the community around the Armenian Cause in all its facets, highlighting the many accomplishments of the most effective and well-organized grassroots advocacy organization in the Armenian Diaspora.

August 10, 2021
For Immediate Release
Contact: Armen Sahakyan
tel. (818) 500-1918

More details about the 2021 Gala will be released in the coming weeks.