BOSTON — This year the commemoration of the 108 Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide took place over the weekend in a series of planned events between April 21 -23. The return to the Massachusetts State House in the post-pandemic took place on Friday, April 21, in the morning in the Legislative Chamber, while the annual Armenian Heritage Park gathering, scheduled this year on Sunday, April 23, the was moved to the Armenian Cultural and Educational Center in Watertown, due to inclement weather.
Both events were well attended by residents from throughout Massachusetts and the region. Exceptionally good event planning and timing by the Boston Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee led to successful outcomes for all. For many attendees there were some surprises with outstanding musicians, intellectuals and sparkling personalities who performed in a heartfelt way during these difficult times for Armenians worldwide.
The very real possibility of genocide continuation looms in the Artsakh Republic and even Armenia proper by the dictatorship in Azerbaijan and its supporting powers.
The State House event was opened and led by Rep. David Muradian, Jr., with musical performances by the Children of St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School of Watertown, and a musical interlude by violinist Haig Hovsepian and pianist Ani Hovsepian of Belmont. Recognition of guests was made by Sen. Will Brownsberger and the presentation of the Governor Healy’s Proclamation by Rep. Dave Rogers.
Remarks by Sheriff Peter Koutoujian were followed by the presentation of a senate resolution to Pamela Avedisian, wife of recently deceased Edward Avedisian a generous philanthropist and member of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, by state Sen. Will Brownsberger. Several scholarships established in honor of late House Speaker Keverian were presented followed by and introduction by Rep. Dave Rogers of the keynote speaker and Permanent Representative of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic to the United States, Robert Avetisyan.
Remarks by Avak Sbarabed of the Knights of Vartan, Hunan Arshakian of California and ending remarks by Muradian concluded the formal event and closing prayers by the gathered clergy and the procession from the House Chamber took place.
