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Armenian Defense Minister Attends NATO Sitting in Brussels

On February 27, Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan participated in the meeting of the Defense Ministers of the countries contributing to NATO-led operation in Afghanistan and the sitting of the Euro-Atlantic Council dedicated to issues of defense capacity development and cyber crimes.

During the sitting, the participants discussed the ISAF mission which is coming to an end in 2014 and the new initiatives to be launched from 2015.

Within the framework of the visit to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Mr. Ohanyan took part in the commemoration ceremony dedicated to the 26th anniversary of the Sumgait massacre against the Armenians in Azerbaijan.

Source: Public Radio of Armenia

Murder in a NATO Peace Program

The Funeral of  Lt. Gurgen Margaryan in Armenia.

The NATO partnership for peace program was created to promote bi-lateral cooperation and cultural enrichment between member states of the North-Atlantic. In the beginning of 2004, representatives of signatories participated in English-Language courses, held in Budapest, Hungary.

It was only one month into the 3-month event when the peace program took a murderous turn. During the night of February 18, representative of Azerbaijan, Ramil Safarov entered the bedroom of Armenian representative, Gurgen Markarian and proceeded to decapitate the defenseless man in his sleep. Axed over sixteen times, the twenty-five year old Armenian engineer was said to have been nearly beheaded in his bed, with his attacker inflicting successive stab wounds to the body thereafter. Following the butchering of Gurgen Markarian, Ramil Safarov attempted to murder another Armenian participant, Hayk Makuchyan, who had locked the door due to screams and warnings from Markarian's roommate and fellow attendees.

Ramil Safarov and fellow students testified that there had been no conflict between the Armenian and the Azerbaijani participants prior to the attack, revealing that the slaughter was purely an ethnically motivated hate crime, with Safarov confessing,

"I regret that I hadn't killed any Armenian before this. The army sent me to this training and here I learnt that two Armenians were taking the same course with us. I must say that hatred against Armenians grew inside me. In the beginning we were greeting each other, or rather they said "hi" to me but I didn't respond. The reason why I committed the murder was that they passed by and smiled in our face. At that moment I decided to kill them, to saw their heads off.."

The premeditated nature of this vicious crime, along the perpetrators obvious lack of remorse caused Ramil Safarov to be handed a sentence of life imprisonment by Budapest courts. After eight years in a Hungarian prison, Azerbaijan brokered a deal for Safarov's extradition home. Upon his arrival Azeri President Ilham Aliyev awarded the murderer 8 years back pay, a home and promotion in military rank in honor of his cowardly crime.

Sponsored by the Azeri state as a national hero, President Illham Aliyev proved once and for all his genocidal intentions towards his neighbors. His hostile tolerance of unjust killings of sleeping victims undoubtedly foreshadows the fate of Armenians if they ever have the misfortune of living under Azerbaijani rule. Professing that "The Armenians of the world are our enemies", Illham Aliyev conditions the children of his nation to celebrate racist barbarity, fueling instability in the region. It was precisely this type of government rhetoric and policy which caused the Sumgait massacre of Armenians in 1988, sparking a war between the two countries.

As if taunting the idea of the peace, Illham Aliyev disrespected the entire international community by encouraging the use of educational peace programs as an appropriate battlefield. With such villainous and unapologetic support displayed for Ramil Safarov's savage actions by the head of state, it remains highly suspicious that Mr. Safarov was not sent intentionally by his government with the motive of ambushing Armenians under the cover of a peace program. Tearing diplomatic trust and staining NATO's well-intentioned enrichment programs as a grave risk for nation's willing to send future participants.

Assemblyman Mike Gatto Introduces Resolution to Recognize Nagorno-Karabakh

SACRAMENTO, CA – Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Los Angeles) joined with people of Armenian descent around California and the world in calling for the United States to recognize the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic as a sovereign state. The resolution, AJR 32, invokes strong language from the United States' own history regarding the rights of the people to "self-determination and democratic independence." If Gatto's resolution passes, it would make California the most populous governmental entity to call for Nagorno-Karabakh recognition, or to recognize it outright.

In 1921, the Soviet Union illegally severed Nagorno-Karabakh, also known as Artsakh, from Armenia, and placed it under the newly created Soviet Azerbaijani administration. Seventy years later, the people there formed the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. On 6 January 1992, the democratically elected legislature of the Republic formally declared independence. Since proclaiming independence, the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic has registered significant progress in democracy building, including a presidential election last year that was assessed by international observers as free and transparent.

Three organizations that have already expressed support for the legislation are the Armenian Council of America (ACA), the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), and the Unified Young Armenians (UYA).

Assemblyman Gatto has worked closely with each of these organizations on legislation he has authored in the past, including a resolution calling for U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide and on legislation extending the statute of limitations for victims of the genocide to file insurance claims. The Assemblyman has also supported events sponsored by each organization, including their stellar efforts to raise money for Armenians in need around the world. "The community is united in support of recognizing Nagorno-Karabakh," stated Gatto.

"It has been my privilege on this resolution to work with the leaders of the local Armenian American community and their outstanding representatives," said Gatto. "I am especially honored to introduce this legislation on a day when Armenians around the world are celebrating Christmas with family and loved ones."

Once passed by both houses of the California Legislature, a copy of AJR 32 will be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Secretary of the United States Senate, the Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, and to each member of the California delegation to the United States Congress.

Mike Gatto is the Chairman of the Appropriations Committee in the California State Assembly. He represents Burbank, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, Montrose, and the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Atwater Village, East Hollywood, Franklin Hills, Hollywood Hills, Los Feliz, and Silver Lake. www.asm.ca.gov/gatto

Source: Official Website of Assemblyman Mike Gatto

Honoring Yura Movsisyan, Moe Movsisyan, and Al Nazarian for their support of Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

“Unified Young Armenians” (UYA) Offers Condolences to the Podolsk Crash Victims and Families

The UYA Family's thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families following the tragic accident which occurred on July 13, 2013. The lives of many families have been affected as a result of the heartbreaking incident which occurred in City of Podolsk of Russian Federation. We cannot help but to recall the many lives lost and dreams shattered. Thus, we extend our genuine sympathies to the relatives and friends of those who perished.

We hope that through a just, thorough, and humane investigation and trial, the facts of this case will be determined and the individuals or entities at fault will be held to answer for their deeds. However, an inhumane trial will not only go against the ideals of justice, but it will also be a direct insult to the memories of the victims lost. It is important to note that the authorities have unfortunately failed to create the necessary conditions for the fair trial of Hrachya Harutyunyan by pandering to forces of xenophobia and racism. In these emotional times, we should not let this dark moment to tarnish the old kinship among the two people.

We highly value and praise the public commitment made by the Armenian community of Russian Federation, specifically that of Mr. Ara Abarahamyan, to assist the families of the victims.

As a tribute to the lives lost and to mark the 7th day of this tragic incident, our Organization's website will go dark on July 20th.

May we all pray for their souls to rest in peace and find comfort.

Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

The Hrachya Harutyunyan Affair: The Straw that Broke the Camel’s [or in this case the Bear’s] back?

Recently, the Russian Federation, a “traditional ally” of Armenia in the face of threats from Turkey and Azerbaijan, took specific and concrete steps which gave rise to a vast number of Armenians both in Armenia and the Diaspora to ask whether the relationship between the “allies” should be revisited and reevaluated.

In the month of June, Russia completed a big arms delivery worth about $1 billion to Azerbaijan, a regime of de facto hereditary dictatorship and a human rights violator. At the same time, Azerbaijan is also Republic of Armenia’s and Nagorno-Karabakh Republic’s arch-enemy who threatens the aforementioned dual Armenian homelands with war and destruction almost on a daily basis. According to Reuters, this Russian arms package included “nearly 100 T-90C tanks, Smerch and TOS-1A multiple rocket launchers and Msta-A and Vena artillery cannons.” For reference, the T-90C tanks are currently the most modern tanks available to the Russian Armed Forces and the remainder of the package is yet another addition to Azerbaijan’s arsenal which can be used to unleash a second campaign of death and destruction against the populations of Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh.

In yet another blow to the often bragged-about traditionally “friendly” Armenian-Russian relationship, ArmRusGazProm, a joint venture between the Ministry of Energy of Armenia and the Russian companies Gazprom and Itera, announced that it will increase the price of natural gas for the Armenian consumers. To be exact, according to ARKA News Agency, “on June 7, the Armenia’s public services regulatory commission increased the gas price for customers consuming up to 10,000 cubic meters from 132,000 drams (including VAT) to 156,000 drams (including VAT) per 1,000 cubic meters as from July 7.” As the Armenian Prime Minister admitted in a recent interview, such an increase in gas prices will have major implications for Armenia. However, shortly thereafter, the Armenian Government and the Russian side launched negotiations to increase the latter’s ownership stake in ArmRusGazProm from 80% to 100% in exchange for lowering the gas price for the consumers. This move, was labeled by many as yet another bullying tactic employed by the Russian Government, especially considering the fact that the price hike followed an earlier Gazprom announcement that the gas prices for the European consumers will fall by 10%. In other words, sooner than later, Armenian consumers can be paying more for natural gas than the residents of Western European countries.

Surprisingly, while the abovementioned incidents have had major geo-political implications for Armenia and Russia, the plight of Hrachya Harutyunyan, a poverty-stricken Armenian migrant worker has reignited the calls for revisiting the Armenian-Russian relations. In a tragic accident which happened on July 13, 2013, Hrachya Harutyunyan, a truck-driver whose truck swerved into a bus in the Podolsk Village of Russia, killing 18 and wounding 60, became central to the Armenia-Russia relationship. In court, Hrachya was accused of violating traffic rules and causing the deaths of two or more people.

While the responsible party should be held accountable for this tragic incident, it was Hrachya Harutyuny’s outrageous treatment by the Russian authorities which caused the uproar within the Armenian public. Hrachya Harutyunyan, a middle-aged man, was brought to the court dressed in a woman’s colorful bathrobe. If Mr. Harutyunyan, per his own cognizance walked into the court wearing a similar outfit, he would have certainly been reprimanded and punished for such an outlandish behavior. The images of a humiliated and disgraced citizen of Armenia went viral on the World Wide Web and generated calls of protest and retaliation, as well as demands for explanations from the Russian authorities. Even more significant, Hrachya’s treatment by the Russian authorities caused the Armenian public to protest at the Russian Embassy in Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, a truly rare incident by any measure.

While it is given that a guilty party must be held accountable for his or her actions in a fair trial, it is universally known and accepted that even those who are accused of the most heinous crimes have certain rights. While remaining innocent until proven guilty is the bedrock of most systems of justice, the protection of one’s dignity is yet another important right which ought to be enjoyed by the accused.

The Russian authorities responsible for this type of outrageous treatment of Hrachya Harutyunyan, a citizen of their only remaining “ally” in the South Caucasus must be held accountable by the Russia’s leadership. While Russian authorities may be pandering to the Russia’s ultra-nationalist elements by treating Hrachya Harutyunyan in such disgraceful manner, both for the short term and in a long run, they are planting potent seeds of anti-Russian sentiments among the Armenians of Republic of Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, and the Diaspora.

It is noteworthy that the outpour of outrage against Hrachya’s treatment by the Russian authorities was not only unified and across the board as to the pundits and politicians of various background, but the uproar was led by the young generation of Armenians. Thus, for many years to come, the anti-Russian sentiments will not only remain intact, but will also exacerbate unless the Russian Government, at its highest levels, takes concrete steps to rectify the damage.

First and foremost, Russia must supply Armenia with superior defensive and offensive weapons so to curb Azerbaijan’s hunger for war and destruction in the region and to reassure Armenia of Russia’s allegiance. Second, Russia must reevaluate its energy policy vis-à-vis Armenia as its current policy not only hurts its ally financially, but it can and eventually should lead to Armenia reevaluating its future relations with Russia.

Lastly, every human being, regardless of its race, age, or sex must be granted the human rights afforded to him by laws of the land or nature. Hrachya’s outrageous and publicized treatment by the Russian authorities was a reminder of Russia’s poor human rights record and rampant corruption which Russia’s leadership have fought against for many years. By publicly and officially holding the responsible individuals to answer for their shameful behavior against Hrachya, the Russian authorities can at least rectify some of the damage which has been caused.

No one has a right to disgrace a citizen of Armenia. And unless the Russian authorities discipline the rogue elements within their justice system responsible for outrageous treatment of Hrachya Harutyunyan, this latest incident can be the straw that breaks the camel’s [or in this case the bear’s] back.

Aroutin Hartounian
President
Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

Armenian Defense Minister’s helicopter reportedly comes under Azeri fire

Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan arrived in the military unit in Noyemberyan at about 11 a.m. this morning.

The Azerbaijani air forces opened fire at the Defense Minister's helicopter, aravot.am reports, citing eyewitness accounts.

Minister Ohanyan spent about two hours in the military unit, where a soldier was killed last week. He returned to Yerevan on the same helicopter, the paper informs.

Spokesman for the Ministry of Defense Artsrun Hovhannisyan neither confirmed, nor refuted the information about the shooting. He said only there were no traces of bullets helicopter.

Unified Young Armenians (UYA): An Independent Armenian Movement

Unified Young Armenians (UYA): An Independent Armenian Movement

Al-Monitor: Turkey’s 2015 plan is to avoid word ‘Genocide’ at all costs

The groups that call the 1915 events in Turkey "genocide" filled Istanbul Taksim Square on April 24, along with Armenians who came from abroad to remember millions of Armenians who lost their lives and suffered untold agony on this land. Only five or six years ago, it was unthinkable that such an observance could be held in Turkey. These developments encourage optimism, but even as democratic and forward-looking Turkish faces were displayed in Istanbul, we also noticed that the Turkish Foreign Ministry was still repeating the clichés of the last 98 years that we all know so well, Al-Monitor writes.

The Foreign Ministry criticized the April 24 statement of US President Barack Obama with a tone bordering on condemnation: "We find this statement that ignores historic realities troubling in all its aspects, and regret it." What led to this critical tone was Obama's saying that the Armenians were mercilessly massacred and forced on a death march in the last days of the Ottoman Empire.

On one hand, Turkey has erased a yearslong taboo and is now debating 1915 freely as never before. In addition to the April 24 observances, people are openly expressing their views by referring to 1915 as "genocide" in print and visual media.

But on the other hand, looking at the official reactions of the Turkish government, you can't find the slightest change. Why? Why is Turkey trying to keep the world from debating an issue that is freely discussed in Turkey itself? Why was Obama's statement received with such a stiff reaction, even though there was no mention of genocide? Why is Turkey, while taking serious steps to solve major questions such as the Kurdish issue, still repeating its century-old clichés on the Armenian issue?

All these appear to be part of Turkey's strategy for 2015. While Armenia and the Armenian diaspora promote 2015 as a milestone for global recognition of genocide, the Turkish state, mobilized by defensive instincts, continues denying everything, just as it has been doing all these years.

Keeping all this in mind and rereading Turkey's reaction to Obama's message, it could be understood that Turkey's message was not for today, but rather forward looking. It appears that Turkey, by reacting strongly today, was trying to ensure that the US president will not mention genocide in 2015, accoridng to Al-Monitor.

Why is Turkey so worried by the use of this word? Because Ankara thinks that there could be legal ramifications of the US and European countries recognizing genocide.

"The Turkish government, fearing future sanctions, is continuing with the policy of denial, and this will not change before 2015. Whether Turkey will develop humane and rational policies once the fear of 2015 is past remains to be seen."

Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Act introduced in US Congress

As Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Erdogan continues his official U.S. state visit, a bipartisan group of U.S. Representatives introduced the Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Act, a new measure calling upon the President to build upon the U.S. record of having recognized the Armenian Genocide by working toward improved Armenian-Turkish relations based upon Turkey's full acknowledgement of the facts and ongoing consequences of the Armenian Genocide, and a fair, just, and comprehensive international resolution of this crime, reported the Armenian National Committee of America.

"We welcome today's introduction of the Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Act," said Aram Hamparian, Executive Director of the ANCA. "This innovative bipartisan initiative, building upon the U.S. record of having recognized the Armenian Genocide, calls for a new U.S. approach to Armenian-Turkish ties that reflects our America values and recognizes that our national interests require an end to Turkey's denials and a truthful, just, and comprehensive international resolution of this crime."

The Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Act, introduced by Representatives Michael Grimm (R-NY), Adam Schiff (D-CA), David Valadao (R-CA) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ), reflects and reinforces previous U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide as a crime of genocide, citing the U.S. Government's May 28, 1951 written statement to the International Court of Justice regarding the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, President Ronald Reagan's April 22, 1981 Proclamation and Congressional adoption of Armenian Genocide legislation in 1975 and 1984.

"Almost a century ago, over a million Armenian men, women, and innocent children were mercilessly put to death by forces of the Ottoman Empire in a horrifying attempt to wipe them from the face of the earth," said Rep. Grimm. "The U.S. has tirelessly defended justice and human rights throughout the world, and we have a solemn duty to recognize, once and for all, the injustices of the Armenian Genocide. On behalf of the Armenian community in New York City, I am proud to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in introducing Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Act."

"The facts of history are well-settled – 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children were deliberately murdered in the first genocide of the 20th Century," Rep. Schiff said. "With each passing day, we lose a few more of the dwindling number of survivors. We should all feel a powerful sense of urgency, and the profound call of moral duty to recognize the Armenian Genocide unequivocally and without delay."

Congressman Valadao stated, "Many of those able to flee during the genocide immigrated to the United States and settled in California. Today, their families continue to grow, thrive, and instill their cultural heritage in their adopted communities. However, the sense of loss as a result of these horrific acts runs deep as many Armenian-Americans in my district personally know a friend or family member who was unable to escape the genocide. We must ensure that the United States government properly acknowledges what so many already know to be true."

"The time for the U.S. to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide is long overdue," said Congressman Frank Pallone, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues. "Armenia stands as a resilient ally of the United States and a nation dedicated to democracy and regional stability, and the Resolution introduced today shows that we will not stand idly by when the truth of this genocide is distorted by the Turkish government."

Unified Young Armenians' (UYA) Official Condolences on the Tragic Passing of Allen Yekikian

On behalf of Unified Young Armenians (UYA), we send our sincere and heartfelt condolences on the tragic death of Allen Yekikian, a young and visionary activist for the Armenian Cause. No doubt, this is not only a loss for the Yekikian family, but also one for the entire Armenian Nation. His legacy and his work will continue. He will not be forgotten.

May 9: 21st Anniversary of Shushi's Liberation

Happy Cinco de Mayo

Aroutin Hartounian: A Response to El Vaquero's Letter to Editor Titled "Armenians Have Achieved Some, Not All, Goals"

My name is Aroutin Hartounian, and I am the president of the Unified Young Armenians (UYA), a 501 (c) 3 non-profit youth organization based in City of Glendale which for over a decade has tirelessly worked for the promotion of human rights, including but not limited to bringing forth the issue of the Armenian Genocide and demanding justice for this most heinous crime against the mankind.

Many within the community are aware of my background, my work, and my involvement in a number of organizations including the Rotary, the Glendale Police Department's Community Police Partnership Advisory Committee (C-PPAC), and others. Many are also aware that as the president of the Unified Young Armenians, I am responsible for organizing a number of Armenian Genocide commemoration events in Southern California.

As an alumni of Glendale Community College, I was disheartened to see the "letter to editor" published in El Vaquero titled "Armenians Have Achieved Some, Not All, Goals." The ideas put forth in the letter concerning the Armenian Genocide and the quest for historical justice was at a minimum ludicrous. At worst, the article was racist and filled with hatred vis-à-vis the Armenian community. It was an uneducated, unprofessional, and futile attempt at altering history. The ideas presented in that article were in line with the denialist and hatemongering propaganda of the governments of Turkey and Azerbaijan, their paid lobbyists, and their allies.

Secondly and more importantly, the letter published both in the electronic and paper copy of the El Vaquero was attributed to "Aroutin Hartounian," which matched both my first and my last names. It is noteworthy that in the recent past, there have been numerous amateurish yet concentrated efforts made in an effort to discredit me, my work of over a decade, and my beliefs which have been very clearly put forth in a number of forums, including during the various events, in a number of articles, and as apparent from the official position of Unified Young Armenians. This fake "letter to editor" is a continuation of the futile attempts to discredit me. For the sake of clarity, while the name of the individual alleged to have written that article matches both my first name and last name, I have NOT written this article and I do NOT agree with any part of that article.

It is professional and good faith practice for any newspaper to first verify the identity of the individuals sending in the "letter to editor" by contacting him or her via phone, asking his or her address, etc., before publishing a piece. While El Vaquero does not have any such verification procedure in place, this unfortunate episode will perhaps serve as a learning experience for the paper and it will hopefully revise its policy as it pertains to the publishing of such letters.

Returning to the article itself, if such an individual with the exact first and last name in fact does exist, and he holds such outlandish and racist ideas and beliefs, this surely would be a whole different topic to consider. In that case, we should categorize that letter as a futile attempt at a short lived publicity and fame. However, to combat such moral decay, as a society we would need to bring potent anti-racism programs back to our schools. That, of course will be the best case scenario.

In a second scenario, unless there is another individual with the same first and last name who the El Vaquero can successfully verify to have written this racist piece, this is nothing but a pure crime of identity theft. Surely, using the modern law enforcement tools, using the IP address logged in the email which the "letter to editor" was sent, the criminal will be found and will be brought to justice.

However, it is noteworthy that this is NOT a first. This latest act of desperation comes only days after attempts to create fake profiles on facebook and other social media networks bearing my information. This attempt also bears the same modus operandi of a number of entities which we have closely monitored in the last years. In one such episode, hackers from Azerbaijan hacked my personal accounts and attempted to publicize my personal and private information.

On a more positive note, I want to thank the City of Glendale, the Glendale Community College, and the communities living the Southern California who have been supportive of Unified Young Armenians and the mission which it has pursued. Because of the amazing work of the justice seeking individuals around the world, the Armenian Genocide has received wider recognition by governments, scholars, and institutions. Today, more than ever, the world is condemning the Turkish Government for committing the most heinous crime of Genocide against the Armenians, Greeks, and Assyrians. Furthermore, unlike the author of the fake "letter to editor" titled "Armenians Have Achieved Some, Not All, Goals," today the world properly condemns the Turkish Government for the crimes of those leading it during the Armenian Genocide, from 1896 to 1923. A heinous crime was committed. As there are no statutes of limitation for the crime of murder when one person is killed, how can any entity have the audacity to say that the murder of more than 1,500,000 people should be treated less severely? There was a crime, and therefore there must be a punishment. The Turkish Government must be brave enough to accept its past and pay just reparations to the Armenians, Greeks, and Assyrians. The modern Turkish Government has been unjustly enriched by illegally taking over the belongings of the Armenians, Greeks, and Assyrians. Under any fair legal system, the victims of unjust enrichment must be placed in the same position as they were before they were subjected to that crime.

It is especially significant that while the governments of Turkey and Azerbaijan, and their allies, are spending millions of dollars on lobbyists in United States to alter history, brave and righteous Turkish scholars, activists and authors are supporting the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and are calling for the payment of just reparations, a position which is shared by me and my friends and colleagues at Unified Young Armenians.

Lastly, we are confident that it is the firm and widespread support of Unified Young Armenians by the public, elected officials, academics, and organizations that creates the sense of jealousy and desperation which leads to such childish attempts. Such attempts can only strengthen our resolve. We pledge to continue our work with ever greater dedication, vigor, and commitment.

Regards,

Aroutin Hartounian
President
Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

A Big "Thank You" on Behalf of Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

As the president of the Unified Young Armenians (UYA) and on behalf of Organization's leadership, I would like to thank each and every single one of our supporters, donors, and members who made the Sunday's telethon a success. Without them and their continued support of the UYA's mission over the last twelve years, we would not be where we are today.

Those who donated on Sunday (as well as in the last telethon) have once again demonstrated their appreciation of the Movement's value and their dedication to the Cause. They have given us the resources to continue fighting for human rights and historical justice. We are humbled by their trust and support.

We are also thankful to our guests and supporters, be it those who live in the US or those living in Armenia. We thank the Telethon's production team, Taguhi Tracy Oganyan, Arshak Baregam, Vartan Untamed Akopyan, Aram Ter-Martirosyan (ConnectTo Communications) and Partydj Karen, without whom the telethon would not have been possible. This team of selfless individuals worked hard day and night to put together what we all witnessed on Sunday. We are thankful to High Vision TV (Mr. George Asadorian), Best Tv (Mr. Bagrat Sargsyan & Mr. Vahag Sargsyan), New Wave Television (Mr. Ara Kazaryan), Aabctv Channel (Mr. Vrej Agajanian) for broadcasting the telethon last Sunday.

We thank our long time mentors and supporters including Ms. Nune Avetisian, Mr. Steven Juliet Hovagimian, Ms. Lucy Kalfayan, Mr. Hovik Gabikian, and Mr. Hovannes Balayan. These individuals have always been there for UYA over its decade long history.

We also thank the individuals* and organizations below:
His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
His Eminence Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian
Congressman Adam Schiff
CA Assemblyman Mike Gatto
LA Councilman Eric Garcetti
Councilmember Ara Najarian
Councilmember Laura Friedman
Councilmember Zareh Sinanyan
Former Councilmember and Current Glendale City Treasurer Rafi Manoukian
GUSD Board President Nayiri Nahabedian
GUSD Board Member Greg Krikorian
Glendale City Clerk Ardashes "Ardy" Kassakhian
Armen Armenchik Gondrachyan
Vakhtang Vic Darchinyan
Narbeh Nalchachian
V & K Financial Services (Vilen Tavatyan)
Allied West Paper (The Ovanessian Family)
Hi Star Auto
Car City
1in.am (Arman Babajanyan)
Flawless Laser Center
Vartan Gharpetian
GUSD Board Member Dr. Armine Gharpetian
Garo Ghazarian, Esq.
Dr. Nubar Janoian
Hovhannes Shahbazyan
Harut Hagopian
Maria Cozette
Gagik Badalyan
Karen Boksian
Artur Madoyan
Vitamin Club
Vardan Amolikyan
Sako Zelveyan
Bedros Hajian
Karen Boksian
Hasmik Khachatryan
Levon Ter-Petrosyan
Eve Olve (Yeva Haryants)
Vito Gasparyan
Arno Mrtchyan
Seroj Avoyan
Done
Davit Tovmasyan
Martik Hovakimian
Gor Vardanyan (and the Docando Federation)
Gokor Harutyunyan
Sako Chivichian
Chuko
Louise Gill
Harout Balyan
SEIU 721
Armenian Democratic Liberal Party (Ռամկավար Ազատական Կուսակցութիւն)
Social Democrat Hunchakian Party (SDHP) (Սոցիալ Դեմոկրատ Հնչակյան Կուսակցություն) 
Armenian Bar Association 
Loyola Law School Armenian Law Student Association
United Armenian Council of Los Angeles
Allo Luv
Net Cafe
Best Choice Bail Bond
Calstar Plumbing & Rooter
Beno Blanko (and G Spot Hookah Catering)
And others...

Last, but certainly not least, I am thankful for having dedicated, hardworking, and patriotic members who went above and beyond the call of duty to make the UYA telethon a success. Each one of them deserves recognition and a standing ovation.

Sincerely,

Aroutin Hartounian
President
Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

*The names above are only a portion of the individuals who have stood by us during these last telethons. We apologize for any omissions and assure you that such omissions were not intentional.

From Hitler to Aliyev, Nothing Much Has Changed

Official Unified Young Armenians (UYA) Statement on Murder of Major Vahe Avetyan

Unified Young Armenians (UYA) condemns the heartless beating of the Armenian Armed Forces Major Vahe Avetyan which led to his death days later. We join the Major’s family and the Armenian civil society, as well as the global Armenian Diaspora in demanding justice for Major Avetyan’s death demanding all parties responsible for this tragedy to be brought to justice.

The murder of Major Avetyan was a huge loss which befell the Armenian Nation. As a nation which has survived the Armenian Genocide, we firmly believe that the Armenian state has a task of protecting the life and liberty of every single Armenian. No Armenian shall be killed in his homeland. While a civilian’s death deserves the strongest of condemnations, the murder of a soldier who is tasked with protection of our nation at a time of war is an even bigger crime. Major Avetyan was not only a soldier, but the head of the ENT Department of the Yerevan Garrison Hospital. This murder robbed the Armenian Armed Forces, the Armenian Homeland, and the Armenian Nation of a valuable and irreplaceable asset. This most heinous crime is nothing short of treason and the perpetrators need to be prosecuted and punished as such.

While we welcome the resignation of Ruben Hayrapetyan, the affluent businessmen and owner of the Harsnakar Restaurant (at which Major Avetyan was beaten to death) from the Armenian Parliament, we believe that more needs to be done. We demand a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into this matter. We also demand the maximum punishment for the perpetrators of this crime against the Armenian Nation.

Unified Young Armenians (UYA) remains an independent and apolitical force. We do not field candidates, either in the Diaspora or in Armenia, and make no attempt to garner cheap political points by abusing this tragedy which befell the Avetyan family and our nation. From day one, we have focused on Vahe Avetyan’s murder and have demanded justice for him and his family. Our participation in the rallies held at the Armenian Consulate in Los Angeles were not in support of one political force or another. We were there for Major Avetyan. We were there to show our outrage against the phenomenon of bodyguards daring to murder Armenian military personnel who ironically and in turn are a vital part of the system which provides protection to the same bodyguards’ families, friends, and homes against foreign aggressors.

While there have been many calls for not "politicizing” this tragedy, we refuse to remain silent and not criticize the system which allows a certain group of individuals to kill with impunity. Our condemnation is not limited to leaders or members of one political party or another. This strong condemnation is not playing politics. We hope that one day our homeland will be free of a justice system that turns a blind eye to individuals considered above the law. From the highest office of the land to the poorest laborer, everyone should be equal in the eyes of law. This includes the members of the parliament and their body guards. We will continue working to this end through educational and anti-corruption campaigns which will hopefully shine light on this evil.

For the sake of the past… For the sake of the future…

Unified Young Armenians (UYA)

Glendale’s Armenian Genocide Monument: An Unrealized Dream worth Pursuing

A call to action: We need to act for sake of the victims, the next generation, and the City of Glendale

Glendale, the second or third most Armenian-populated city in the world (after Armenian Capital Yerevan and perhaps Moscow), is considered the heart of the Armenian Diaspora. Apart from sheer numbers, this city is the hometown of many famous Americans of Armenian descent who have contributed a great amount to this country.

With the year 2015 just around the corner, and nearly a decade after City of Glendale (and it’s Armenian as well as Non-Armenian residents) were considerate and generous enough to dedicate a parcel of land to this very purpose (of immortalization of the memory of millions of victims), we still do NOT have an Armenian Genocide monument in this great City. The dedicated land is located on the cross street of Mountain Ave. and Verdugo Rd., across from Glendale Community College (GCC).

Procedurally, a committee was setup, meetings were held, a design competition was put together and its winner was declared (and awarded). And then everything stopped.

While there surely ought to be legitimate reasons for such a shortcoming, we owe it to ourselves, the memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide, the next generations, and most importantly to the great City of Glendale to speed up this process and finally complete this so desired monument.

Why do we owe it to the City of Glendale to finish this project as soon as possible? While the value of this monument to the Armenian residence of the City might be of educational and commemorative in nature and to a large degree symbolic, a well designed and built monument (and educational complex discussed further below) has the real potential of becoming a regional landmark which will also boost tourism to our City and revive its hospitality and food sectors which have suffered greatly in the last few years. While scale of the current project are smaller in size and projected cost, the Holocaust Memorial in Germany attracted 3.5 million visitors each year which is equivalent to about 10,000 visitors every day. That monument was called a “tourist magnet” on a national and international level. At worst, the Glendale project will boost Glendale’s tourism value on a state and national level. At best, City of Glendale will become the Human Rights capital of the region. Building of this monument will also mean creation of coveted new construction jobs in the City.

What has been missing in the previous design is an educational center. While understanding the difficulties of creating such a center, we would like to suggest the inclusion a virtual museum in form of interactive learning kiosks which will allow visitors to not only visit the site, but also learn about the Armenian Genocide. These kiosks can be wifi-enabled to connect to a number of virtual museums (example:http://www.memcosoft.com/genocidemuseum/) on the Armenian Genocide which are currently operational. While periodic maintenance would be an issue, many such kiosks are already operational without direct manpower requirement at thousands of metro stations across the world which provide route information, vend tickets and stubs, and perform many other functions.

The first question to ask is why the monument hasn’t been built almost a decade after the dedication of the land parcel?

Once this question is answered, we might be able to find ways to overcome this issue.

Financial Considerations

Some have claimed that finances are the issue keeping this project from moving forward. Of course, finances play an important part in every project, program, or event. However, considering the importance of this project both to the Armenian public at large, and to the City of Glendale and its businesses, building of such an important landmark should not be hindered by any financing issues. Just from speaking to local residents, young and old, business and labor, one can see that such a project enjoys the support of all echelons of the society. Therefore, funding will not (and SHALL NOT) be an issue. The community can fundraise for two years and begin the construction phase of the project in the third year just in time to unveil the project for the 100 years anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Political and Other Considerations

Some have attempted to reserve the exclusive right to monument building while others have questioned the wisdom of building a second monument while "there is already a monument in Montebello, California." Both such claims are destined to fail.

This project cannot and should not be a showdown of who can take the credit for such an important project. A decade is a long time. Now, it is up to the community, the people, and the City to move this project forward.

Secondly, such monuments and reminders of man’s inhumanity to man should be many; they should be everywhere. Having a chapter of an organization doesn’t preclude that organization from having yet another chapter. Why should having a monument preclude having a second, third, or forth one?

Timing and Location

Timing

Maybe the timing and the location is an issue for some. But, if not now, with three years remaining to 2015, then when?

With the year 2015 fast approaching, such a monument will be the greatest gift to the public at large. Be it Armenian or non-Armenian, every citizen of Glendale would benefit from having a landmark in its backyard.  Every visitor and tourist to Los Angeles would consider Glendale as a must see location in their travel itinerary. These tourists would spend money in Glendale and our businesses would also benefit. In turn, our City’s coffers would be fuller than ever.

Location

If not in Glendale, in a parcel dedicated to this very purpose near Glendale Community College (where thousands of Armenian and Non-Armenian residents visit on a daily basis), then where?

If the location is not to the liking of the naysayers of the project, they are more than able to go out and purchase another land (extra cost), obtain the necessary permits (extra cost), and yet again wait another 10 years or so. We need to move beyond holding a meeting after another meeting. It is interesting to hold them, but we need to act. Time is running out and we owe a duty to the victims, ourselves, and most importantly to the City of Glendale and its residents.

Conclusion

It is time to move beyond eloquent words and speeches. It is time to act. The Armenian Genocide monument in Glendale has the potential of being a regional landmark, one which would benefit all concerned parties. From job creation, to promoting tourism, from immortalization of victims’ memories to reaching one step further in condemning Genocides, this monument will do it all. Years after our generation is gone, this landmark will stay. It will stay and serve as a symbol of our City’s commitment to universal human rights, justice, and compassion. It will serve as the symbol of our generation’s will to stand up against oppression everywhere.

Press Release: April 24, 2012 Armenian Genocide Commemoration March in Little Armenia, Hollywood

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 24
THOUSANDS GATHERED IN HOLLYWOOD DEMANDING THE RECOGNITION AND OVERDUE REPARATION FOR THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

Little Armenia, Hollywood, CA, April 24, 2012 – Unified Young Armenians, Inc. (UYA) held its annual mass demonstration Tuesday in little Armenia at the intersection of Hollywood and Hobart Boulevards in Hollywood commemorating the 97th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and protesting its continuous denial by Turkey as well as demanding a proper recognition by the US government.

Thousands, dressed in black, marched in protest in the event attended by genocide survivors, Armenian-American community and religious leaders and human rights activists, politicians and government officials.  Guest speakers included, Congressman Adam Schiff, Assemblyman Mike Gatto, City Council Member Eric Garcetti, Member of the Canadian Parliament Jim Karajianes,  Glendale Unified School District Board Member Greg Krikorian and Archpriest Fathers Viken Vasilyan and Hovsep Hacobian among others.

The protest began at 10:00 am and ended at 1:00 pm with other commemoration events and protests continuing throughout the day. 

On April 24, 1915, the Young Turks carried out their plan to annihilate the Armenian population living in the Ottoman Empire. It became the prototype for all genocides following thereafter. The mass extermination and systematic killings resulted in the massacre of 1.5 million innocent Armenian men, women, and children. For the past 97 years, this crime against humanity has gone unpunished. The descendants of the Ottoman Empire – the Republic of Turkey – refuse to acknowledge the guilt of their ancestors and continue to blackmail, bribe and lie in order to conceal the truth. 

In 1918, former President of the United States of America, Theodore Roosevelt wrote in a letter to Cleveland Hoadley Dodge: "… the Armenian massacre was the greatest crime of the war, and the failure to act against Turkey is to condone it… the failure to deal radically with the Turkish horror means that all talk of guaranteeing the future peace of the world is mischievous nonsense." The denial campaign of the Armenian Genocide by the Republic of Turkey continues. UYA demands for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide by both the United States of America and the Republic of Turkey. It seeks justice for the sake of all genocides in the past and present. 

UYA is a non-partisan, non-religious, and a non-profit grassroots youth organization. Its goal is to encourage activism among the Armenian youth, while advocating justice and human rights. It upholds the power of knowledge and education. UYA’s mission is to serve the collective good and to promote a world free of genocides. 

If you have any questions, please visit http://www.YoungArmenians.com or http://facebook.com/youngarmenians or contact UYA at818.971.5065 or 
youngarmenians@yahoo.com.

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