Congresswoman Tsongas addresses Merrimack Valley ANC Observance

By Tom Vartabedian

"The Armenian Weekly", Volume 74, No. 18, May 3, 2007

LOWELL, Mass.—An appearance by newly elected U.S. Congresswoman Niki Tsongas highlighted genocide observances in Lowell on April 19.

The 93rd annual commemoration was conducted by the ANC of Merrimack Valley with support from various churches and organizations throughout the area, including Southern New Hampshire.

Close to 100 attended the ceremony, which was launched by a procession downtown led by Lowell Armenian-American veterans, clergy, and youngsters holding banners proclaiming justice and recognition.

Tsongas was quick to criticize Turkey for not acknowledging dark chapters in its past, much the same way other countries have done.

“That is why I’m proud to co-sponsor the Armenian Genocide Resolution following my election to Congress this past fall,” she said. “This is a community dedicated to the prevention of future crimes against humanity.”

Tsongas told the gathering that while some groups in Washington, D.C., have denied the genocide and other atrocities committed by the Ottoman Empire, there is no question in her mind that when truth is denied, it dishonors the victims.

“We cannot send a dangerous message to future generations,” she added. “As we remember the hundreds of thousands of lives taken in the Armenian Genocide, we must mutually pledge to never let the events associated with this horrific tragedy be forgotten by history.”

Tsongas issued a proclamation on behalf of the Fifth Congressional District “in an effort to increase awareness and help build a better economy in Armenia by promoting trade and investment.”

Also introduced was Alin Gregorian, editor of the Armenian Mirror-Spectator, who recounted some of her own family experiences, including the murder of her great-uncle, a physician in Baku.

“Whether the coverage is in our paper or other forms of media, I’ve been fascinated both by the stories themselves and how well they present the events,” she said. “I find there is something abstract about it. The figure is so high, the atrocities so intense, the horror so overwhelming, that it is beyond the realm of human comprehension.”

Gregorian emphasized the need for collective action among Armenians, such as events surrounding the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and its denial of the genocide.

“Through cooperation, we succeeded in convincing communities to pull out of the ADL-sponsored No Place for Hate,” she told the crowd. “We did it by working with the Jewish community, which was instrumental in helping the Armenian community. As Armenians, we must stand for justice and human rights. We are no longer victims. We are a voice for justice.”

City councilor Alan Kazanjian, the first Lowell Armenian elected to public office, read a proclamation drafted by Mayor Edward C. “Bud” Caulfield that paid tribute to the immigrants who helped bolter his city’s economic and social fabric.

“Armenians fled increasing oppression from the Ottoman-Turkish Empire during the last century and immigrated to America in search of a free society,” he proclaimed. “They hoped to follow democratic principles, live in dignity and without fear. Their devotion to a free society, healthy religious values, and strong civic pride must be recognized.”

Representing the North Andover AYF as its past president was Megerdich “Mgo” Kassabian, this year’s winner in an essay contest sponsored by the Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee of Merrimack Valley.

“I stand before you as a proud but angry Armenian,” he said. “Proud to be part of an active generation but angry because justice has not been realized. We owe it to the dwindling number of survivors to keep the voice of Armenia strong and constantly pursue awareness.”

Tyler Kazanjian, president of the ACYOA, told how his own ancestors were put through a horrific ordeal in the Syrian desert.

“This race of hard-working, family-oriented, God-loving people had its world turned upside down overnight at the hands of the Turks,” he said. “It is up to the youth to take on the challenge of creating a new Armenia by living our identity and practicing our culture. The rights of our martyrs must be remembered with dignity.”

Veterans formed an honor guard as the tricolor was hoisted above City Hall.

Other speakers were vice-mayor Rita Mercier and Ara Jeknavorian, who served as master of ceremonies.

Prayers were offered by Rev. Vartan Kassabian, pastor of the St. Gregory Church of North Andover, and Rev. Khachatur Kesablyan, pastor of the Sts. Vartanantz Church of Chelmsford.

A reception followed under the direction of the Lowell ARS and the Sts. Vartanantz Women’s Guild where the Ani Ensemble played music appropriate for the occasion.