• Ani Guiragos Minassian School to Host Holiday Boutique

• Armenia Wins Gold in Chess Olympiad

Tuesday November 25, 2008

ARF Western US Hosts Diaspora Minister

GLENDALE--The Armenian Revolutionary Federation's  Western US Central Committee hosted Armenia's newly-appointed Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakopyan during a reception Friday evening at the Peshekerian Center.
In welcoming Hakopyan to the center, ARF Western US Central Committee chairman Avedik Izmirlian said the creation of a ministry that directly deals with the Diaspora was very encouraging and expressed the ARF's willingness to work with the ministry in its endeavors.
Hakopyan discussed the mission of the ministry and its willingness to reach out to all elements within the Diaspora for the fruition of the mission.
Also participating at the reception were representatives from the 16 ARF chapters in Southern California, the Prelacy Executive Council, the Board of Regents of Armenian Schools, the Armenian National Committee-Western US, the Armenian Youth Federation, the Armenian Relief Society, the Homenetmen, the Hamazkayin, Armenian Educational Foundation, the Davtian-Mariamian Education Fund, Armenian Writers Union and other community members.
Hakopyan also met with representatives of compatriotic unions, who were gathered at center.
 

Thursday November 20, 2008

• The AYF's 'Vahan Cardashian' Chapter Celebrates 50 Years of Community Involvement

Tuesday November 18, 2008

• 'Armenian Genocide Remains Unpunished,' Says Aram I

• Homenetmen West Elects New Executive

• ARF at the SIW Bureau and SI Council Meetings (PDF ARMENIAN)

• Azeris Fire at Karabakh Positions

Azeris violated the cease fire

Monday November 17, 2008

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaking at Columbia University in New York

• Touts Turkey's Historical Commission at Columbia University

• Erdogan Says Turkey Will Host Next Sarkisian-Aliyev Summit

*********************

• Weekly Report 11-14-2008

Friday November 14, 2008

• Assemblymember Krikorian Appointed to California Film Commission

Thursday November 13, 2008

• Swiss President Backs Turkish Genocide Commission

• Cyprus willing to facilitate Armenia-EU relations development

• Cyprus wants to be a bridge between Armenia and Europe

Mr. Marios Garoyan, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus

Wednesday  November 12, 2008

• TOY DRIVE  (The AYF Fresno “Kevork Chavoush” Chapter)

• Nalbandian Blasts Turkish Disinformation Efforts

• Top Lawmaker Urges Australian Senate to Recognize Genocide

Monday November 10, 2008

• Lawsuit filed Against US National Archives To Obtain Documentation On Armenian Genocide

• Sarkisian Congratulates Obama

********************

• Weekly Report 11-10-2008

Friday November 7, 2008

• Aliyev Calls for Turkish Intervention in Karabakh

• Karabakh Reacts to Moscow Declaration

Thursday November 6, 2008

• Erdogan Worried Over Obama's Commitment to Genocide Recognition

• A Victory for All

Wednesday November 5, 2008

• PRESS RELEASE Nov. 5, 2008

• History Made: Obama Wins

• Rep. Adam Schiff Visits Asbarez

Rep. Adam Schiff with Asbarez Editors Apo Boghigian and Ara Khachatourian

Monday  November 3, 2008

• PRESS RELEASE Nov. 3, 2008

• Obama Reaffirms Pledge to Recognize Genocide

• Turkish Event Disrupted by Demonstrators

   Armenian Fonts Download  

.

àã ÂÇõ 9ÇÝ

November 26, 2008

Armenia Wins Gold in Chess Olympiad

DRESDEN, Germany (RFE/RL)--Armenia has won the gold medal of the Chess Olympiad, securing a second World Chess Olympiad title in a row at the biannual event in Germany.

The news from Dresden on Tuesday sparked celebrations among chess fans in Armenian capital Yerevan and throughout the country.

Many of them had followed live the final round action between Armenia and China in a closely packed Chess House in central Yerevan. The long-awaited victory was met with prolonged jubilations.

Armenia's men, the winning team of the previous World Chess Olympiad in Turin in 2006, beat China 2.5-1.5 in the 11th and final round of the tournament to secure an overall victory in Dresden and a heroes' welcome at home.

Grandmaster Levon Aronian, Armenia's current No. 1, drew with China's Wang Yue on the top board, with Vladimir Hakobian, Gabriel Sargsian and Tigran L. Petrosian finishing the job respectively against Bu Xiangzhi, Ni Hua and Li Chao B. Armenia's only winning point, however, came from Petrosian on the fourth board.

Speaking to RFE/RL from Dresden, Armenian Chess Federation deputy head Vanik Zakarian described the win as fantastic for a small country like Armenia. “It is a very amazing result, a fantastic result.”

President Serzh Sarkisian, who also heads Armenia's Chess Federation, has been in Dresden since Monday to encourage the team before the crucial match against China.

According to Zakarian, Sarkisian had made the symbolic first move for Aronian, who played with black pieces. Before that, FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov did the same on behalf of Aronian's Chinese opponent.

“Our team had been seeded as ninth at this Olympiad. But there is no other team among the Olympiad participants that would have the same solidarity and level of organization. The victory comes very natural,” Zakarian added.

Armenians have traditionally excelled in chess, which is one of the most popular sports in Armenia. The country's leading players enjoy domestic stardom compared to that of top soccer players abroad.
 

November 26, 2008

Ani Guiragos Minassian School to Host Holiday Boutique

Ari Guiragos Minassian Armenian School will be having their Annual Christmas Boutique this holiday season on Sunday, December 7at the Gugasian Hall at 5315 W. McFadden Avenue, Santa Ana, CA.

Over 40 vendors will present their unique items for sale at the event, organized by the PTO Committee. Various booths will feature Armenian delicacies, homemade chocolates, gourmet foods and so much more.  Designer brands at discount prices to include eyewear, clothing, crafts, toys and so much more will be available for your shopping spree!

In addition to the items for sale, this year the boutique will present two wonderful performances by the students of Orange County, CA. The AG Minassian and ARS Saturday Armenian School students will be performing holiday and Armenian traditional songs at 12 Noon and the Hamazkayin Yeraz School of Armenian Dance will perform a mini show at 1:30 PM. Students of all ages from 4 years old to 18 years are busy preparing for both performances, in true holiday spirit, to share with the audience.

There will also be a special children's story time held from 3:00 to 3:45 PM for those younger audiences.

There is still time to register to be a vendor and be a part of the holiday boutique.  For more information, please contact the school office at 714-839-7831.

All proceeds from this event will directly benefit the A.G. Minassian Armenian School in Santa Ana, CA.
 

November 20, 2008

The AYF's 'Vahan Cardashian' Chapter Celebrates 50 Years of Community Involvement

MONTEBELLO, CA--One of the Armenian Youth Federation's oldest chapters in the western United States, Montebello's "Vahan Cardashian," celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday, November 15, marking simultaneously the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Armenian Youth Federation in America.

These twin anniversaries were commemorated with an all-AYF alumni reunion, a hallmark event in the community organized once every 5 years by "Vahan Cardashian" members and alumni--a tradition dating back to 1978.

This year, nearly 1000 people from across the country turned out at the newly renovated Baghramian Hall in Montebello's Holy Cross Church to celebrate the two birthdays and mark yet another year of history in the making for the Armenian community in the Southern California.

Some came to the event from throughout California, while others made the trek from the Midwest and East Coast, where they now live. Many, however, did not have to travel far to attend the anniversary dance, having made their homes in Montebello where they grew up as members of the AYF.

According to several alumni interviewed during the reunion, "Vahan Cardashian" has been a critical component of community life since its founding in 1958. The chapter, they all agreed, matured and grew along with the community.

The Armenian community in Montebello largely traces its roots to two waves of  
migrations--the first came as survivors of the genocide, while the second escaped Nazi occupied Russia with the help of General Karekin Njdeh, the founder of the AYF.

"Vahan Cardashian" has always maintained very strong ties with its community, explained its chairperson Zaven Altounian, commenting on the chapter's continued commitment to fostering a sense of community among each new generation of youth in Montebello.

“The chapter's relationship with its Alumni has always been its strongest asset and the best method to maintaining community links,” he added, noting the critical support provided by its alumni over the years. "Cardashian alumni are always there for us, offering experience and knowledge and helping organize events like this anniversary commemoration."

The chapter, one of the largest and most active in the region, has also been an informal training ground preparing Montebello youth for leadership roles in the community. "Our chapter has always represented the next generation of our community's leaders," Zaven explained. "The chapter has always served as a place where Montebello's youth can gain the skills they need to become good leaders in any capacity."

Members graduating from the chapter have gone on to serve in the local ARF, as well as organizations such as the Montebello Prelacy Church Board, the Armenian Eye-care project, and the Armenian Educational Foundation, according to Zaven's father Stepan, a member of the Montebello "Dro" Chapter of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation.  Stepan, an AYF alumnus, was one of the key organizers of the reunion.

The chapter, Zaven explained, exists to provide opportunities to its members, empowering them to do the things "they enjoy," while assisting Hai Tad. Activities organized by the chapter range from organizing educationals, cultural and social events or political actions. "The chapter is also a place for learning and growth."

"In the AYF you have to cover all aspects of what it means to be Armenian and to be involved in an Armenian community, whether that means being politically, socially or culturally involved," he explained, commenting on his chapter's guiding ethos.

"Vahan Cardashian" has also helped to educate the community's youth about the Armenian cause, and Armenian issues, while maintaining culture and heritage.

The chapter kicked off its 50th year with 42 members on its roster. It recently organized a town hall meeting where a community development speaker, Bedros Vandazian, talked about qualities of leadership, and community organization. The forum also saw lengthy discussion on the development of Montebello's Armenian community.

As Montebello's Armenian community continues to grow and evolve, so will "Vahan Cardashian," providing new generations with new ways to connect with their community. One aspect of the chapter that will never change, however, is its desire to learn from, call upon, and collaborate with its vast alumni, noted Zaven.

As evident by the successful celebrations and reunions of the past years, including the most recent celebration this year, the chapter's tie with its alumni is valued as a primary means for building community.

It is in that vein that Zaven Altounian proudly noted that the proceeds of every reunion are donated to strengthening a certain facet of the organization. The proceeds from this year's dance will sponsor the renovation of an entire cabin at AYF Camp at Big Pines.

To register as an Alumnus of the AYF, please visit the Alumni section of www.AYFWest.org
 

November 18, 2008

Homenetmen West Elects New Executive

A review of Homenetmen Western USA's activities of the past two years was just one of the highlights during the organization's two-day Convention November 7-9 at the Montebello Armenian Center. The region's 30th convention brought together 124 elected delegates and more that 30 invited guests, including 33rd Navasartian Exemplary Homenetmen member Albert Ounjian and Honorary President Vahagn Thomasian, along with ARF CC representative Hagop Tufenkjian. Homenetmen Central Executive Vice Chairman Koko Balian represented the highest elected body of the organization.

Homenetmen Western Region Chairman Steve Artinian convened the meeting with the election of a temporary executive, after which the permanent executive was elected to run the convention; members included co-chairs Armen Aprahamian, Mher Tavitian and secretaries Harout Mardirossian, Hampig Havanjian, Vasken Arzoumanian, Henry Mertikhanian who assumed the tedious task of recording the meeting.

Convention activities included REC's financial and activity report during the last term, followed by committee reviews of REC initiatives.

After questions and clarification on those activities, the convention assessed the REC's two-year performance. Pointing to the purchase of a new center as well as a campground, the body stressed the REC's activities were conducted in an "outstanding" manner. They also praised the ability to attract even greater number of youth and step-up the quality of activities provided to them.

In order to conduct a thorough review and make recommendations, delegates formed various committees to evaluate organizational and educational practices, athletics, scouting, Navasartian activities, public relations and Camp Tecuya. Most recommendations outlined chapter and inter-regional programs directed toward strengthening athletics and scouting, and expanding the already massive Navasartian Games.

On Sunday, November 9, after the convention ratified REC's activities, election of a new executive was held; the following members were elected: Steve Artinian (Los Angeles), Hovig Bedevian (Massis), Maro Keshishian (Los Angeles), Rima Abedi-Sagherian (Ararat), Thomas Tokmajian (Shant), Vartkes Shekherdemian (Shant), Pierre Manoukian (Los Angeles), Anahid Mansourian (Ararat), Khatchig Khalatian (Ararat), Raffi Khatchadourian (San Francisco), Jano Kahwajian (Massis)

In his congratulatory remarks, the Vice-Chairman of Homenetmen Central executive said: "Homenetmen's success rate in educating youth is in its ability to work cohesively, and I'm sure that the newly elected executive with work even harder to bring cohesion within Homenetmen."

On behalf of the convention executive body, chairman Mher Tavitian thanked participants for their trust, and in his message to the outgoing REC, congratulated them for their success in realizing the wholesome goals that Homenetmen pursues.

Tavitian especially thanked the Montebello Tro chapter for their hospitality in hosting the convention, which ended with many successes as well as praise by California Assemblymember Kevin de Leon on Homenetmen's success in reaching out to youth through its 17 chapters.
 

November 18, 2008

'Armenian Genocide Remains Unpunished,' Says Aram I

November 18, 2008

Azeris Fire at Karabakh Positions

November 17, 2008

Erdogan Says Turkey Will Host Next Sarkisian-Aliyev Summit

NEW YORK (Combined Sources)--Turkey's Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Friday made clear his country's intentions to gain a foothold in South Caucasus and particularly the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process, announcing at New York's Columbia University that Turkey's president would soon host a second round of trilateral talks with the presidents of Armenia and Azerbajan.

Erdogan's statements follow similar remarks made by his foreign minister, Ali Babacan, earlier Wednesday. Armenia's foreign ministry, in response to an inquiry on the Babacan announcement only said that Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian was scheduled to visit Istanbul for the upcoming Black Sea Economic Cooperation summit. Armenia assumed the rotating presidency of the economic body last month.

Less than two weeks ago the president of Armenia and Azerbaijan, Serzh Sarkisian and Ilham Aliyev, were joined by their Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev in Moscow to sign a declaration pledging to step up their efforts in seeking a negotiated peace.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference, Erdogan said that the two leaders made a significant step and Turkey is willing to host the second meeting.

He said solving the problem could lead to a new step in the Karabakh peace process and the start of a new process regarding the relations between Turkey and Armenia. Turkey has consistently linked the establishment of normal relations with Armenia to a resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict favoring Azerbaijan. According to analysts close to the conflict, Turkey's attempts to hinge the two disputes are part of a larger bid to gain influence in the region.

Asked whether Turkey, as a member of the U.N. Security Council, would pursue its own national policy or U.N. policies if a problem about the Caucasus and the Nagorno-Karabakh was brought to the Council, Erdogan said Turkey would contribute to speed up efforts for settlement of the problem. But he did not elaborate how.

Touts Turkey's Historical Commission at Columbia University

In remarks during a conference at Columbia University entitled "Turkey's Role in Shaping the Future" on Friday, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the Armenian Diaspora's efforts to gain US recognition of the Armenian Genocide “cheap,” urging the future Obama administration to take into Turkey's “sensitivities” to “Armenian allegations” into consideration and prevent a “negative period” in relations that would follow official recognition of its crime against humanity.

The Turkish government's position, echoed during various international visits in recent months, "makes it clear that the multi-million dollar Turkish lobby and threat apparatus is revving up its engine yet again to pressure the American government into not recognizing the Armenian Genocide," said Andrew Kzirian, the executive director of the Armenian National Committee-Western Region.

Turkey has also become intensely focused on Sen. Barack Obama's victory in the US presidential election, he said, explaining that the Turkish press has been feverishly producing 'news' opposing US genocide recognition, depicting any attempt to correctly categorize the genocide as a death sentence to 'budding' Armenia-Turkey relations.

Kzirian noted that this is a troubling development, demonstrating that Turkey is hurrying to establish relations with Armenia, in large part, to prevent recognition of the Armenian Genocide in the United States.

According to the Turkish Prime Minister, Turkey-US relations underwent a 'negative period' as a result of 'Armenian allegations' of genocide in 2007. He added that this 'negative period' could be overcome, "through common political will and endeavors."

"Turkey and the United States experienced a negative period regarding terrorist attacks stemming from Northern Iraq and Armenian allegations regarding the 1915 incidents in 2007. However, this period could be overcome," Erdogan said, describing the campaign for US recognition of the Armenian Genocide as 'not fair.'

"I hope the new U.S. administration would take into account Turkey's efforts. It is not fair to make a judgment upon such cheap political lobbying," he said.

"I sincerely congratulate Barack Obama and his team who won the elections," Erdogan said. "Turkey and the United States are two allies that have very strong relations, supporting each oher for more than half a century.

Earlier this year, Erdogan bashed Sen. Obama, calling him "an amateur in politics" for issuing statements on the Armenian Genocide.

Despite that, however, the Turkish Prime Minister was reported earlier this week to have requested a meeting with President Elect Obama in Washington Friday while on a visit to the White House to attend an Economic Summit at the invitation of President George W. Bush.

"Turkey is resolved to maintain multilateral and close cooperation with the new U.S. administration led by Mr. Obama. Naturally, we particularly expect the new U.S. administration to take into consideration Turkey's sensitivities on matters which have vital importance," Erdogan said, lining regional peace and security to US complicity toward Turkey's denial of the Armenian genocide.

The grassroots movement of Armenian Americans and human rights activists is based on the concerns of United States citizens--constituents that have contributed to the unique and democratic fabric of this free country by advocating that the US recognize the Armenian Genocide--and put an end to genocide everywhere, Kzirian noted. "Frankly, the real problem we face as Americans is that an external player - Turkey - hires multiple powerful lobbying and public relations firms - sometimes in an illegal manner as evidenced by the Vanity Fair piece on former House Speaker Denis Hastert and improper Turkish influence - to carry out denialist work in Washington, DC."

Using the opportunity to speak at the University, Erdogan also reiterated calls on Armenia to open its archives on the genocide for 'study' by a historical commission, a move widely seen as an attempt to bolster Turkish claims that a commission to investigate the events of 1915 is much more viable an option than the US recognizing the Armenian Genocide.

"We have opened our archives and Armenians should open their archives too. We have studied over 1 million documents so far," he said.

Turkey's archives on the period, although ostensibly open, are under strict censorship, with scholars studying the genocide subject to close surveillance and intimidation by Turkey's security services, according to academics who have attempted to research the Armenian Genocide in Turkey's archives.

"Our offer is still on the table. Let's leave it to historians," Erdogan said, adding that Turkey and Armenia should abide by the final decision of historians following these studies.

"Erdogan's tired refrain calling for a historical commission on the Armenian Genocide is universally dismissed as just one more tactic in Turkey's long-standing campaign of genocide denial," said Aram Hamparian, the executive director of the Armenian National Committee of America. "The request is even more disingenuous, given Turkey's Article 301 laws that make honest discourse of the Armenian Genocide a prosecutable offense in Turkey.

Earlier on Monday, Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian described Turkey's proposal to form a commission of historians to investigate the veracity of the Armenian Genocide as unnecessary.

"It [the commission] is absolutely not necessary. We do not think that anything can be achieved with it. We want to establish diplomatic relations between the two countries, open the borders without any preconditions; afterward, through an intergovernmental process, we can discuss all issues pertaining to the neighboring countries," Sarkisian said in an interview published Monday in the German Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung daily. "We do not consider the recognition of the Genocide by Turkey as a precondition to establish relations. We desire the latter, but not at any cost. In the past the European countries too have not established historical commissions in order to develop normal relations. Such an initiative could also mean an attempt to mislead the international public, especially when it is a years-long process."

November 14, 2008

Assemblymember Krikorian Appointed to California Film Commission

SACRAMENTO, CA 's Assembly Speaker Karen Bass has appointed State Assemblymember Paul Krekorian (D-Burbank) to the California Film Commission, filling the seat that she previously had held herself.

Assemblymember Krekorian has been among the strongest advocates for California's film industry in the State Capitol.  His district includes Burbank, Glendale and surrounding areas of Los Angeles, and is the home of most of the major film studios and a very significant number of industry professionals, so he well understands the enormous economic impact of this critical industry.

“California's film industry is a treasured and world-renowned part of our state's history, and it also creates good middle class jobs that are a vital part of our economic future,” Krekorian said.  “Unfortunately, many foreign countries, and over 40 other states, are going to great lengths to take these jobs away from Californians, and they've been succeeding.  I'm looking forward to working with my fellow commissioners, my colleagues in the Legislature and the Governor to find ways to make California more competitive so that we can keep these good jobs here at home where they belong.  I'm honored that the Speaker has entrusted me with the opportunity to do so”

Assemblymember Krekorian is the Chair of the Assembly's Select Committee on the Preservation of California's Entertainment Industry, and in that capacity he has led the fight to keep film and television production jobs in California.  He was the joint author of AB 1696, which would have created a grant program to make filming in the state more cost-competitive with other states and countries.  He also authored three new laws to assist in the fight against piracy and counterfeiting of motion pictures, sound recordings and other creative property.  Krekorian was an entertainment and intellectual property lawyer for many years before his election to the Assembly.

“Paul Krekorian has the expertise and the passion we need to promote quality film production in California,” said Speaker Bass. “I have every confidence in his ability to develop innovative ways to encourage the in-state production that makes up such a vital part of California's economic activity and job creation.”

Other members of the Commission include motion picture professionals such as actor/director Danny DeVito, actor/director Clint Eastwood, entertainment industry labor leader Michael Miller, and studio executives from Paramount, 20th Century Fox, and Sony Pictures, among others.  

Assemblymember Paul Krekorian (D-Burbank) represents the cities of Burbank and Glendale, and the Los Angeles communities of Atwater Village, Los Feliz, North Hollywood, Silver Lake, Toluca Lake, Valley Glen, Valley Village and Van Nuys.

November 13, 2008

Cyprus willing to facilitate Armenia-EU relations development

As a member of the President of the European Union, Cyprus is willing to facilitate development of the Armenia-EU relations, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus. Marios Garoyan told a news conference in Yerevan today.

“We should offer and work out special programs to deepen cooperation between Armenia and the European Union,” he said.

For his part, RA parliament speaker Hovik Abrahamyan said Armenia is aspired to join the European family. He also informed that Mr. Garoyan invited him to Cyprus.

“An agreement on the Armenian-Cypriot cooperation, covering economy, trade and culture, will be signed during my visit,” Abrahamyan said.

Commenting on the possibility to open Cypriot diplomatic outposts in Armenia and vice versa, the officials said interparliamentary consultations can be held on the issue.

November 13, 2008

Cyprus wants to be a bridge between Armenia and Europe

Cyprus is willing to assist implementation of strategic projects in Armenia and to be a bridge between Armenia and its European partners.

“The action plan signed by Armenia and the EU in the framework of the European Neighborhood Policy offers extra opportunities,” Mr. Marios Garoyan, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus told the Armenian National Assembly today.

The Armenian-Cypriot relations are dynamically developing but there is still room for deepening bilateral cooperation, according to him.

He also expressed satisfaction with the Armenian-Cypriot cooperation within international organizations, specifically PACE and OSCE.

“I am thankful to Armenia for support of our struggle for reunion. This help will never be forgotten,” he said, adding that the Cypriot parliament was among the first to announce April 24 the Day of Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide.

Mr. Garoyan also emphasized the role of the Armenian community in development of relations between the two states.

November 13, 2008

Swiss President Backs Turkish Genocide Commission

BERNE, Switzerland (Today's Zaman)--The president of the Swiss Confederation has backed Turkey's calls to form a commission that would ostensibly 'study Armenian claims' of genocide, saying the dispute over history should be settled by historians, not politicians.

Pascal Couchepin is on a visit to Turkey on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Turkey. He had talks with President Abdullah Gul on Monday and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Parliament Speaker Koksal Toptan on Tuesday.

The lower house of the Swiss Parliament recognized the Armenian Genocide in 2003, causing strain in bilateral relations with Turkey. Last year, Dogu Perincek, a Turkish politician and the leader of the small Workers' Party (IP) was convicted in a Swiss court in March 2007 under the country's anti-racism laws for denying the Armenia genocide. He was ordered to pay a fine of 3,000 Swiss francs ($2,450) and was given a suspended penalty of 9,000 francs ($7,360). The ruling angering Turkey which criminalizes discussion and debate on the Armenian Genocide.

The Armenian issue was one of the items discussed in Couchepin's talks with Gul late on Monday. To Turkey's dismay, the Swiss leader defended his country's laws penalizing denial of the genocide at a press conference with Gul. He said the laws were passed 20 years ago with the principal purpose of punishing denial of the Holocaust and that the Swiss judges had the flexibility to interpret laws according to different circumstances. Couchepin also referred to Perincek, without citing his name, as a "provocateur."

"One of the people is currently under arrest in Turkey for provocations," he said. Perincek is one of the 86 suspects in the Ergenekon case, in which the prosecutors blame the shadowy network for plotting against the government and seeking to stage a military coup.
 

November 12, 2008

TOY DRIVE  (The AYF Fresno “Kevork Chavoush” Chapter)

The AYF Fresno “Kevork Chavoush” Chapter would like to inform you of its annual toy drive.  Every year around this time, the Fresno “Kevork Chavoush” chapter conducts a toy drive to benefit the children in Armenia.  As the year ends, we package up tons of boxes filled with toys, and ship them to Armenia to help some of the children in Armenia that are not as fortunate as us here in the United States.  If you are interested in contributing to our toy drive, please contact Sevag Jierian at (559) 301-2439 or feel free to e-mail us at ayffresno@yahoo.com.  If you are in the Los Angeles area and want to contribute to our toy drive, please visit the AYF office located at 104 N. Belmont St., Suite 206, Glendale, CA 91206 or call them at (818) 507-1933.  Please remember that the toys must be brand new and in their original boxes in order for us to send them to Armenia.  Thanks for your contributions.

Furthermore, AYF Fresno would also like to inform you of our AYF Olympics Western Region barahantes this year.  AYF Olympics will be taking place in Fresno, CA this year and we will be hosting a barahantes featuring Sahag Sislian and D.J. Raffy from San Francisco.  The barahantes will take place on November 29^th, 2008 at the Armenian Community Center in Fresno.  For more information, feel free to call the ACF office at (559) 233-2315, or e-mail us at ayffresno@yahoo.com. 

Nalbandian Blasts Turkish Disinformation Efforts

November 12, 2008

YEREVAN (Combined Sources)--Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian Wednesday blasted the Turkish press for taking his recent statements out of context and reaffirmed Armenia's firm commitment to attaining international recognition of the Armenian Genocide as a foreign policy priority.

“The recent publications in the Turkish press on the process of international recognition of the Armenian Genocide attributed to Armenian officials are distorted and skewed. I have said many times and I would like to repeat that Armenian officials have never spoken and will never speak of suspending the process of international recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Furthermore, Armenia cannot tolerate any expression of Genocide denial,” said Nalbandian

Earlier this week the Turkish press distorted statements made by Nalbandian at a conference in Stockholm and by taking quotes out of context reported that the recognition of the Armenian Genocide was not as important as other considerations in normalizing relations with Turkey.

November 12, 2008

Top Lawmaker Urges Australian Senate to Recognize Genocide

CANBERRA--Following meetings with the Armenian National Committee of Australia in Canberra, Senator for Western Australia Chris Ellison called on the national Senate to formally recognize the Armenian Genocide.

In what is a major development, the Armenian Genocide has been discussed in both houses of Australia's Parliament within three weeks. Senator Ellison's remarks Tuesday come after House of Representatives member Joe Hockey last month called for the Australian House of Representatives to formally recognize the Armenian Genocide.

“A number of senators and members would no doubt have met representatives from the [Armenian] community who visited the parliament this week... [and] ...the issue of the Armenian genocide in 1915 is a matter which weighs heavily with them,” Sen. Ellison told the Senate.

This is a very important issue and one which needs to be recognized by Australia,” he added.

In addition, Senator Ellison brought to the attention of the Upper House recently-uncovered information of Australia's significant relief effort aiding victims of the Armenian Genocide.

"What is important is Australia's role, and in fact there was a thing called the Armenian Relief Fund of Australia, which operated from 1915 to 1929," Senator Ellison said.

“This relief fund of Australia provided humanitarian assistance to victims of the Armenian genocide," the Senator said. "These relief efforts became known as the first major international humanitarian project provided by Australia and set a precedent for continued support for areas and people in need throughout the world, and that is quite extraordinary when one looks at the history.”

The Senator, who is also a member of the Australia Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group, urged his colleagues to “acknowledge this as a matter of history,” because “bad things happen when good men and women do nothing”.

ANC Australia President Varant Meguerditchian, who led a delegation of colleagues along with visiting guest Raffi Hamparian of the ANCA, welcomed Senator Ellison's advocacy and said it proves his organization's inaugural Advocacy Week was delivering fruitful results.

“ANC Australia Advocacy Week is all about educating legislators about the reality of the Armenian Genocide and the importance of its recognition internationally,” he said. "Senator Ellison's statement in the Upper House is the start of what we expect will be his integral involvement in our efforts to have Australia recognize the Armenian Genocide.”

November 10, 2008

President Serzh Sarkisian Congratulates Obama

November 10, 2008

Lawsuit filed Against US National Archives To Obtain Documentation On Armenian Genocide

Los Angeles, Calif.--A civil action against the National Archives and Records Administration of the United States was filed yesterday seeking documents as they relate to the Armenian Genocide (1914 to 1925). (Vartkes Yeghiayan v. National Archives and Records Administration of the United States of America, Case No. CV08-16248, U.S. District Court, Central District of Calif., Sept. 23, 2008).

"Repeated efforts have been made to procure these documents, but the National Archives has been non-responsive," says Mark MacCarley, partner with Glendale, Calif.-based MacCarley & Rosen who is representing plaintiff Vartkes Yeghiayan. "Its actions are in violation of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)."

The initial request by Yeghiayan occurred in April 2006. "The National Archives acknowledged receipt of the request, but has not provided the information despite repeated inquires from my client," says MacCarley. "The National Archives, without explanation, has exceeded the generally applicable 20-day deadline for processing FOIA requests. We simply want the requested documentation."

Yeghiayan is an attorney who has successfully litigated lawsuits in State and Federal courts against U.S. and foreign businesses for Armenian Genocide asset restitution. More than 1.5 million Armenians were killed during the genocide with millions more deported from the Ottoman Empire (now Turkey). Yeghiayan filed the FOIA request because he believes documents are being held by the U.S. government that would identify countries having either direct complicity in the Armenian Genocide or profited by the Ottoman Turks actions against Armenians.

"This lawsuit is on behalf of Armenian-Americans who are seeking documentation and information that could shed light on what happened to their loved ones during the Armenian Genocide,” says Yeghiayan.

November 7, 2008

Aiyev Calls for Turkish Intervention in Karabakh

 ANKARA (Combined Sources)--In a widely applauded speech delivered to Turkey's Parliament on Thursday, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev called for increased Turkish intervention in the region, describing a “Turkish-Azerbaijani union” as the solution to  “problems” in the Caucasus--the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in particular.

"The greatest problem to peace and security in the region, is the occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh by Armenia," Aliyev was quoted as saying by Anatolian Agency.

Peace in the Caucasus will be established with Turkey's initiative and the "good will of regional countries," Aliyev told a parliament full of applauding deputies. “A Turkish-Azerbaijani union is an important factor in the region”

"What is taking place in the Caucasus is of interest to all of us. Turkey conducts very active policy in regard to the problems in the Caucasus. Turkey will intervene more seriously to the regional problems in the future. Such intervention will have positive results. We applaud such initiatives," Aliyev said.

Aliyev said his country is hopeful that all 'Azerbaijani territory' would unite and be free of any 'occupation'.

Describing his country's relations with Turkey as being founded on “historic bonds” of “friendship and brotherhood”, Aliyev said relations and political dialogue between the two countries will continue to take place at the highest level possible.

Azerbaijan's newly elected president arrived in the Turkish capital Wednesday only days after meeting in Moscow with Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Following the talks, the three presidents signed a declaration pledging to step up efforts at finding a political solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Meeting with Turkish President Abdullah Gul on Wednesday, Aliyev thanked Turkey for its efforts in the Caucasus, which Ankara wants to crown with a regional cooperation pact, involving also Georgia and Russia. He also voiced hope that the talks with Armenia would result in a settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict "through gradual steps."

In a joint press conference after their talks on Wednesday Gul proclaimed that a new era for the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has begun.

“We have courageously started dealing with problems of the Caucasus. Caucasian leaders are displaying the will for resolving these problems on various platforms,” Gul said, while also referring to Turkey's proposal for a regional platform to discuss and resolve conflicts in the troubled Caucasus after a brief war between Russia and Georgia.

With the planned Caucasus Stability and Cooperation Platform, Ankara ostensibly aims to bring Turkey, Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan and Georgia together around the same table. Analysts close to the region, however, see the platform as an attempt by Turkey to drastically increase its influence in the region and sideline the OSCE Minsk Group in the Karabakh negotiations process.

“Caucasus countries, especially Azerbaijan, are lending support to this [proposal]. We believe that an environment to be created with dialogue and mutual understanding will lead to the resolution of problems in the Caucasus. I can state that a new era concerning the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has begun,” Gul said.

Aliyev said he backed Turkey's proposal for the regional platform while underlining that he applauded Turkey's efforts to bring peace and stability to the region.

According to diplomatic sources in Turkey, Aliyev Wednesday signaled his support for a proposal made by Gul earlier this week to host a second round of trilateral talks with the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Gul had already voiced support for the Moscow talks and expressed hope that it will be followed by other steps, while a separate Turkish Foreign Ministry, separately, welcomed the declaration and said that a network of relations based on cooperation and mutual trust within the framework of Turkey's proposal for a regional platform could build confidence between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

The statement also said Turkey, a member of OSCE Minsk Group, will continue to work with Armenia and Azerbaijan for resolution to the Karabakh conflict, which “poses a grave threat to security and stability of the region.”

According to sources, the Turkish side will convey its proposal for a trilateral summit to the Armenian side. The exact date and venue of the meeting will be decided later; however, %u030stanbul has been mentioned as the probable venue.

"The summit may take place in a few months," a Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Today's Zaman.

Turkey's proposal to host a new summit comes after months of intense diplomatic activity aimed at bolstering the prospects of establishing a joint commission with Armenia to examine the history behind the Armenian genocide. The initiative, largely a public relations ploy, is aimed at convincing Washington that its recognition of the Genocide will torpedo 'budding' relations between Turkey and Armenia.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov told Today's Zaman that the decision concerning the meeting's venue and date was up to Turkey, adding that agenda of the trilateral summit didn't necessarily have to be limited to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

November 7, 2008

Karabakh Reacts to Moscow Declaration

STEPANAKERT (Armenpress)--The Nagorno Karabakh Foreign Ministry on Thursday described the weekend meeting of the presidents of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia as a sign of Russia's continued readiness to act as an “effective mediator” in the Karabakh peace process, but stopped short of issuing a full endorsement of the summit, citing Azerbaijan's continued isolation of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic from the peace talks.

Georgi Petrosian, Karabakh's Foreign Minister, described any meeting as flawed without the participation of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic.
 
If the negotiations process is to be effective, he explained, the interests of the main party to the conflict--the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic--must be directly represented at the negotiating table, adding that “If Azerbaijan was really interested in resolving the conflict it would have sat around the negotiating table with Nagorno-Karabakh long ago.”

But instead official Baku has tried to pressure Karabakh and sideline the negotiations process through different international institutions and countries, Petrosian said.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev hosted the crucial talks between his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts outside Moscow on Sunday. A joint declaration signed by them said Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Serzh Sarkisian will intensify efforts at a “political resolution” of the Karabakh conflict.

According to Petrosian, the meeting can be seen as “an attempt to clarify the positions of Armenia and Azerbaijan on the prospects of a political resolution to the conflict,” in a region still feeling the consequences of Georgia's failed attack on its breakaway region of South Ossetia.

November 6, 2008

Erdogan Worried Over Obama's Commitment to Genocide Recognition

ANKARA (Today's Zaman)--Speaking Tuesday on the occasion of the election of Barack Obama to the presidency of the United States, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters he hoped the new president's pledges to recognize the Armenian Genocide do not materialize.

In an apparent reference to the strong pledges made by Obama to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide, Erdogan said he expected certain ideas expressed by Obama during his election campaign to remain just part of campaigning and not to be developed further by the White House in the new term.

He said changes in the administrations of the US and Turkey have never altered the characteristics of bilateral relations between the countries, supposedly based on mutual strategic interests.

Erdogan also said relations with US President-elect Barack Obama's administration should continue in the same vein as before.

“The burden on the shoulders of the United States is very different compared to other countries, as it is a strong country with more opportunities in its hands. Obama will carry such a burden at a time of global crisis. The US has a much larger responsibility to contribute to global peace. At this point, we must assess some rhetoric that appeared during the election campaign that we hope was limited to the campaign and will remain there,” the prime minister added, referring to Obama's strong stance on recognizing the Armenian Genocide.

Noting that mutual strategic interests have always been a determining factor in bilateral relations between Turkey and the United Sates, Erdogan expressed hope that the this relationship would not be harmed by the new administration taking office. The prime minister didn't exclude the possibility of having a meeting with Obama when he travels to Washington later this month to attend a financial summit of the Group of 20 (G-20) countries called by current US President George W. Bush.

“We will try to have a meeting if Obama's hectic schedule to form his cabinet lets him spare time for such a meeting,” Erdogan said, while, on his final note, he wished for Obama's term to contribute to democracy, peace and solidarity in the world as well as to the Middle East peace process.

President Abdullah Gul, at a joint press conference with Azerbaijan's visiting President Ilham Aliyev, also congratulated Obama on his victory, saying he wished Obama's presidency will cement stability and security not only for the American people, but for the entire world.

“I hope that a new presidency begins for the entire world,” Gul said. In Rome, while participating in a Turkish-Italian forum, Foreign Minister Ali Babacan echoed the same sentiments of Gul and Erdogan when asked about Obama's election.

“We hope the US will make more contributions to the world's peace, security and stability after these elections,” Babacan said, noting that the Turkish government has been in contact with Obama's staff already. The minister also said the foreign policy issues of priority for Ankara and Washington match each other to a large extent, as these issues are related to the geography in the region surrounding Turkey.

 November 6, 2008

A Victory for All

LOS ANGELES--Armenians for Obama wholeheartedly congratulates President-Elect Barack Obama and Vice-President-Elect Joe Biden on their historic victory, which swept the nation with a promise of change and hope for a brighter future.

The Obama victory is especially poignant for the Armenian-American community, due to the consistent promises and pledges the campaign has made on the importance of the community in the US, US-Armenian relations and recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

As recently as Friday, five days before Election Day, the Obama campaign issued another announcement reiterating Obama's pledge to recognize the Genocide.

"Barack Obama strongly supports passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 and S.Res.106) and will recognize the Armenian Genocide," read the Obama campaign statement issued on Oct. 31.

"This is truly a victory for everyone. Armenians for Obama worked hard to create a truly effective grassroots movement in support of the President-Elect, energizing the voter base throughout the country. Armenian-Americans overwhelmingly supported the Obama-Biden ticket and now we must heed the President-Elect's call to come together and work together toward a better future for our country," said chairman of Armenians for Obama Areen Ibranossian.

"We are confident that an Obama administration will stay true to its campaign promises and, in its effort to advocate justice, will recognize the Armenian Genocide," added Ibarnossian.

"We also thank all volunteers for their hard work and commitment throughout the campaign and their unwavering belief that change was possible make," said Ibranossian.

For ten months, Armenians for Obama, worked around the country, and especially in battleground states, to mobilize and empower the community to turn out on Election Day and vote for change. This grassroots movement involved and engaged all segments of the community including a large number of first-time voters, whose ambition for change became a major driving force in mobilizing community members and activating the voter base.

Armenians for Obama is a nationwide voter registration, education, and mobilization effort dedicated to electing Barack Obama President.  Based in Los Angeles, and with chapters and affiliates across the country, Armenians for Obama will harness the energy and enthusiasm for Barack Obama's candidacy to ensure record high Armenian American turnout in critical battleground states.

November 5, 2008

Rep. Adam Schiff Visits Asbarez

LITTLE ARMENIA--Rep. Adam Schiff (D-29) visited Asbarez and Horizon offices hours after he cast his ballot on Election Day.
Schiff was given a tour of the facilities and met with editorial and business staff members.
After a conversation with Armenian and English editors Apo Boghikian and Ara Khachatourian, as well as local Armenian National Committee representatives Garo Ispenjian, Karekin Khanjian and ANC-WR Executive Director Andrew Kizirian, Rep. Schiff presented framed copy of a statement he submitted to the House floor on the occasion of Asbarez's 100th anniversary.
 
During the discussion, Rep. Schiff talked about his recent visit to Armenia, as well as issues that concerned his constituents in the 29th district.

November 5, 2008

History Made: Obama Wins

The most vocal candidate on Armenian issues in US presidential election history, Barack Obama, was elected the nation's first black president Tuesday night in a historic triumph, signaling a change in Washington that may finally end nearly a century of US complicity in Turkey's denial of the Armenian Genocide.

In following the campaign, from its beginning stages of the primaries to the dramatic twists and turns, Sen. Obama has stayed true to his pledge to fight injustice, wherever injustice is taking place. From his acceptance speech at the end of the primaries to his countless public appearances and to the presidential debates, he has emphasized his commitment to wiping out genocide in the world and to punish those who perpetrate it.

Last Friday, the Obama-Biden campaign reaffirmed its commitment to Armenian Genocide recognition and a strong U.S.-Armenia relationship.

A statement titled "Barack Obama: Supporting U.S.-Armenia Relations," relayed to Armenians for Obama Chairman Areen Ibranossian earlier Friday as well as the ANCA, affirmed that "The Armenian Genocide, carried out by the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923, resulted in the deportation of nearly 2 million Armenians, and approximately 1.5 million of those deported were killed."

The statement went on to say that "Barack Obama believes we must recognize this tragic reality and strongly supports a U.S.-Armenian relationship that advances our common security and strengthens Armenian democracy."

It also noted that "Barack Obama strongly supports passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 and S.Res.106) and will recognize the Armenian Genocide."

Earlier in January, Senator Obama voiced his strong support for passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution and pledged that, as President, he would recognize the Armenian Genocide.  The Presidential hopeful also reaffirmed his support for a strong "U.S.-Armenian relationship that advances our common security and strengthens Armenian democracy."

Unlike other Democratic candidates, Senator Obama also pledged to "promote Armenian security by seeking an end to the Turkish and Azerbaijani blockades, and by working for a lasting and durable settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict that is agreeable to all parties, and based upon America's founding commitment to the principles of democracy and self determination."

Sen. Obama's election comes after months of intense campaigning on behalf of the Illinois Senator by Armenian-Americans in key battleground states and throughout the country.

During this election, Armenian American voters were mobilized by the Armenian National Committee of America through a network of over 50 local chapters and a diverse array of affiliates, civic advocates, and supporters nationwide.

The energy and enthusiasm for Barack Obama's candidacy was further harnessed by Armenians for Obama, which mobilized a record high Armenian American turnout in critical battleground states, like Florida and Nevada, two vital states flipped from red to blue on Tuesday night.

*********************************

Monday November, 4 2008

Obama Reaffirms Pledge to Recognize Genocide

WASHINGTON--With just days left to the crucial November 4th presidential elections, the Obama-Biden campaign reaffirmed its commitment to Armenian Genocide recognition and a strong U.S.-Armenia relationship, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

A statement titled "Barack Obama: Supporting U.S.-Armenia Relations," relayed to Armenians for Obama Chairman Areen Ibranossian earlier Friday as well as the ANCA, affirms that "The Armenian Genocide, carried out by the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923, resulted in the deportation of nearly 2 million Armenians, and approximately 1.5 million of those deported were killed. Barack Obama believes we must recognize this tragic reality and strongly supports a U.S.-Armenian relationship that advances our common security and strengthens Armenian democracy." The statement goes on to note "Barack Obama strongly supports passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 and S.Res.106) and will recognize the Armenian Genocide."

"The ANCA welcomes further reaffirmation of Barack Obama's strong commitment to issues of concern to the Armenian American community, including proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide and fostering a strong U.S.-Armenia relationship," stated ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian.  "ANCA chapters and activists across the U.S. will continue, in these last days, to work hard for the Obama-Biden ticket and the candidacies of the large number of Senators and Representatives who have supported Armenian American concerns."

The Obama-Biden statement comes amid a flurry of reports in the Turkish press regarding a meeting that supposedly took place over the last several days between a senior Turkish official, Ahmet Davutoglu, and a representative of the Obama-Biden Campaign, after which Davutoglu called into question Obama's commitment to this core human rights issue.

Last week, the ANCA formalized its longstanding support for Barack Obama with an official endorsement of the Obama-Biden campaign for the Presidency of the United States.  The ANCA had first endorsed Sen. Obama in January, 2008, leading up to the critical super-Tuesday primary elections.

Read the ANCA endorsement of the Obama-Biden ticket and review all supporting documents of his candidacy.

As always, the ANCA welcomes feedback on its service to the Armenian American community.  Please forward your thoughts and suggestions about the 2008 Presidential election by email to anca@anca.org.

The complete text of the latest Obama-Biden campaign statement is provided below.

Barack Obama: Supporting U.S.-Armenia Relations

The Armenian Genocide, carried out by the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923, resulted in the deportation of nearly 2 million Armenians, and approximately 1.5 million of those deported were killed. Barack Obama believes we must recognize this tragic reality and strongly supports a U.S.-Armenian relationship that advances our common security and strengthens Armenian democracy.

Recognition of the Armenian Genocide:  Barack Obama shares with Armenian Americans a principled commitment to ending genocide. That starts with acknowledging the tragic instances of genocide in world history. As a senator, Obama has stood with the Armenian American community in calling for Turkey's acknowledgment of the Armenian Genocide. He criticized the Secretary of State two years ago for the firing of the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, John Evans, after he used the term "genocide" to describe Turkey's slaughter of thousands of Armenians starting in 1915. Obama wrote that the Armenian Genocide is not an allegation, a personal opinion, or a point of view, but rather a widely documented fact supported by an overwhelming body of historical evidence.

Barack Obama strongly supports passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 and S.Res.106) and will recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Genocide Prevention: The U.S. and the entire global community must remember the past and learn from these crimes against humanity to make sure that they never happen again. Sadly, genocide persists today and threatens our common security and common humanity. In Sudan, we are witnessing many of the same brutal tactics -displacement, starvation, and mass slaughter - that were used by the Ottoman authorities against Armenians in 1915. Obama has been a leading voice urging the Bush administration to take stronger steps to end the genocide in Sudan. He traveled to the United Nations to meet with Sudanese officials, visited refugee camps on the Chad-Sudan border, pushed for the deployment of a robust multinational force for Darfur, and urged divestment from companies doing business in Sudan.

Commitment to Armenian Americans: Barack Obama has a strong record on issues of concern to the 1.5 million Americans of Armenian heritage in the United States. As president, Obama will maintain our assistance to Armenia, which has been a reliable partner in the fight against terrorism and extremism. An Obama administration will help foster Armenia's growth and development through expanded trade and targeted aid. He will also strengthen the commercial, political, military, developmental, and cultural relationships between the U.S. and Armenian governments. Obama will continue his active engagement with Armenian American leaders on the full range of issues of concern to the Armenian American community to build upon the enduring ties and shared values that have bound together the American and Armenian peoples for more than a century.

Turkish Event Disrupted by Demonstrators

AYF Confronts Denial at Long Beach Ataturk Celebration; Patterns Emerging in Turkish Activity

LONG BEACH, CA--Questions about Turkey's human rights record and denial of the Armenian Genocide hampered an annual gala in Long Beach marking the founding of the Turkish Republic on Saturday, October 25, when over 50 activists from the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) demonstrated outside the hotel hosting the celebration in protest of the republic's contentious and violent history.

Organized by the Association of Turkish Americans of Southern California (ATASC), the Turkish Republic Day ball commemorates Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and other Turkish 'founding fathers.' The event marks the founding of a Republic, the establishment of which was no less bloodier than the crumbling of the Ottoman Empire that preceded it. Ataturk is hailed as the harbinger of the "new" Turkey for the Turks while many see his rise to power as a continuation of the centuries of persecution of ethnic and religious minorities in Turkey.

"The birth of a state through the wholesale destruction of millions of Armenian, Greek and Assyrian people is a feat we believe is not worthy of celebration," said Vache Thomassian of the Armenian Youth Federation.

"If individuals feel that they can celebrate historical atrocities we will be there to remind them that crimes against humanity cannot be masked with balloons and champagne," Thomassian said. "We will continue to pursue awareness and recognition for the Armenian Genocide and we will continue to bring to light those individuals that try to distort and rewrite history."

Most of the participants at the demonstration were young Armenian-Americans who were determined to draw attention to Turkey's laundry-list of human rights violations. Chants and statements read by AYF activists outside the Long Beach Hilton Hotel penetrated deep into its lobby, triggering discussion on the issue among many guests and passerbys. Meanwhile, a smaller group of AYF members silently demonstrated in the hotel lobby, wearing t-shirts depicting a bloody Turkish flag and the words "republic of inhumanity."

"We were able to loudly and clearly get our message across to all those inside and outside the hotel," said Thomassian. "No one went inside that event or building, without considering the the role of the Turkish republic in the Armenian Genocide."

Although this was the first time the AYF confronted the ATASC and the Long Beach Hilton on the issue of the Genocide, Long Beach has long been a hotbed of Turkish activity against the Armenian American community in Southern California, hosting Turkish dignitaries and organizations that actively deny the Armenian Genocide.

In 2002, the California State University in Long Beach (CSULB), invited the then Turkish Ambassador to the United States, Osman Faruk Logoglu, to speak on US-Turkish ties to an audience of over 200 students, professors and members of the community.

Logoglu's presentation, however, quickly became a public relations fiasco for Turkey, as Armenian National Committee (ANC) and AYF activists in the audience continuously asked the ambassador to explain his government's abysmal record on human rights.

AYF and ANC activists, joined by the CSULB Armenian Students Association had also staged a peaceful protest outside the CSULB Main Library, distributing fliers and speaking with members of the campus community about the facts of the Armenian Genocide and Turkey's internationally condemned record of human rights.

Years later, in 2006, CSULB Professor Tulin Mangir, coordinated students and members of the local Turkish community to disrupt an Armenian Genocide commemoration vigil, organized by the Armenian Students Association at UC Irvine.

Mangir, the former Vice President of the Assembly of Turkish American Associations (ATAA) and current faculty advisor to the CSULB Turkish Students Association, wrote an open letter to UCI's chancellor, condemning the Genocide commemoration event and accusing Armenians of "perpetuating a genocide against Turks." Mangir, the chief instigator of the protests, also pressed charges against the UCI ASA for physical abuse, but the university dismissed the charges, considering them to be unfounded.

"As a definite pattern emerges connecting a number of dubious Turkish organizations and initiatives to Long Beach, the Armenian-American community will pay closer attention to this developing relationship," Thomassian said, adding that the AYF will continue to take issue with, and act upon, any group that tries to misrepresent history and deny historical