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Detroit’s Genocide Commemoration
If Talat thought the events of 1915-23, known throughout the
world as the Armenian Genocide, would, as he predicted, end
up with the existence of a sole Armenian in a museum, he
would have been terribly disappointed with the observant
Hyes of metro Detroit.
Over 900 Armenians poured into the St. John’s Armenian
Apostolic Church’s Cultural Hall April 20 for the 93rd
commemoration of the genocide. Organized again by the
Detroit United Committee, which encompasses 21 Armenian
churches and organizations, it was labeled “Through the
Spirit of Our Children,” and scores of young people took
center stage to perform traditional Armenian folk dances and
choral music.
Co-masters of ceremony were Ralph Kourtjian and Dr. Hovsep
Torossian. Co-chairs were Hagop Alexanian of the Armenian
Democratic Liberal Organization and Harry Derderian of the
ARF. The opening prayer was given by Fr. Garabed Kochakian
of the host church. Kourtjian’s welcoming remarks emphasized
that “the young people you see performing today are the
third-generation Armenian-Americans, and they did not forget
and will continue our work for genocide resolution.”
The HMEM scouts presented the American and Armenian flags
and Mr. Rubik Mailian accompanied by Ms. Margaret Lafian
sang the national anthems. There is no stage anywhere large
enough to contain the talent that the City of Detroit’s
Armenians possess.
It was an afternoon of many highlights including a jewel of
Detroit and huge audience pleaser, the talented Hamazakayin
Dance Ensemble under the direction of Nayiri Karapetian.
They drove home an important message as they incorporated
into their dance the visuals of the Armenian cross and the
tri-color. It was encouraging to see so many people wanting
to be part of this popular dance troupe.
A large chorale from the AGBU school under the direction of
Mailian sang Armenian songs with vigor to great applause.
They demonstrated that even non-Hyes have learned Armenian
history, expressing that emotion in raised voice. Today the
late Alex and Marie Manoogian, founders of the school, had
reason to be proud.
Michigan Congressmen Joe Knollenberg and Thaddeus McCotter,
Republicans, both present, have always supported the
Armenian Genocide Resolution and today voiced their
conviction to the Armenians and to the small group of
survivors present. Vowing to continue their support of the
resolution, McCotter said that “Truth transcends party.
Justice delayed is justice denied,” referring to Secretary
of State Condoleezza Rice’s objection to the passage of the
resolution.
Knollenberg said: “The survivors are one reason to be here,
but you are here to also remember the systematic killing.
This country’s lack of acknowledgement contributes to the
continuation of the genocide. You have been fast friends of
mine for many years. I won’t forget your cause.”
Another highlight was the presentation of the Armenian
Genocide essay contest winners by Edgar Hagopian on behalf
of the Edgar and Sarah Family Foundation, whose idea it was
to encourage incorporating education of the genocide into
area junior and high school curriculums. West Bloomfield’s
Rachael Lopatin read her first prize-winning essay and
mesmerized the audience with her knowledge of the topic,
incorporating the genocide of the Armenians, as well as that
of Rwandans, Jews, and presently those in Darfur. Ms.
Lopatin an obvious winner, demonstrated an intellect that
will carry her far in life. Senator Debbie Stabenow was
prompted to comment, “I thank Edgar. The essays blew me
away. Yes, It was a genocide.”
The guest speaker was Rosemary Russell Boze of Warsaw, Ind.,
Community High School who spoke on “Hai Tahd and our
children.” She said, “Because of the freedom fighters, you
are here today. I commend your courage in the face of
adversity. Talat was wrong, wasn’t he?”
Dr. Torossian quoted from Baruyr Sevag: “We are few, but we
are Armenians. Our fortune has been different. We have left
an indelible trace wherever we have gone.”
Participating clergy gave the closing prayers. The accent
was on the youth. The mantle passes to them to continue the
fight for justice and there is no doubt they are prepared.
Talat, you were so very wrong.
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