This week at HCM we have taken a slightly different approach when it came to writing our campus profile. Yes, we are still showcasing a MSU student who has made an impact on campus, but we are also bringing awareness to a culture that is often times overlooked – the culture of Armenia.
If you have learned anything about the Armenian culture, it’s most likely something you have picked up from a Keeping Up with the Kardashian’s episode. If you aren’t Armenian, chances are you can count how many you met on one hand. Why is that?
We are a minority with a long history which has failed to be recognized for 101 years and counting. As an Armenian American myself, I can tell you first hand that we are unapologetically proud of our heritage because we continue to grow even after devastating tragedies.
So, in light of the 101st anniversary of the Armenian Genocide this Sunday, April 24th I would like to invite you all to read through this interview with our campus celebrity: an Armenian American, MSU student, and Armenian Student Organization founder.
Name: Arsho Karajelian
Age: 20
Major/Minor: Nutrition and Dietetics
Year at MSU: Junior
HCM: What are you involved in on and off campus?
ARSHO: Being a nutrition major, I am in the Montclair State Dietetics Organization, volunteering in projects related to nutrition, and serving as president of Montclair Armenian Students Organization. Off campus, I take part in volunteering for many Armenian organizations, such as serving as vice president for the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), being a member of the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America (ACYOA), and taking part in the Shushi Armenian Dance Ensemble.
HCM: Why did you start the Armenian club?
ARSHO: Starting Armenian Club here at MSU was something that a couple of my close friends and I had wanted to do ever since our freshman year. As the years went by we really came together and decided it was time to take action to get together and promote the Armenian culture, educate our campus, and expand the awareness of current issues affecting Armenians everywhere.
HCM: What is a typical meeting like? What are some activities that the club holds?
ARSHO: We hold our meetings at least once a month where we discuss recent news and upcoming events that we would need volunteers for. We hold bake sales, take part in International World’s Fair, accepted students day, Co-sponsor events with other Organizations, as well as plan socials to get our club members to meet and socialize with each other.
HCM: Can you tell us a little about the Armenian culture? What is it like to be an Armenian American?
ARSHO: The Republic of Armenia shares borders with Iran, Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. With a population of about 3 million people in Armenia alone, there are Armenians spread all throughout the world that have created communities that continue to carry on Armenian culture globally. With our rich traditions filled with church and folk music, woodworking, stone carving, and rug-weaving art, along with being the first Christian nation, we take pride in who we are. Being an Armenian American in my opinion is something to be very proud of. Despite the hardships and tragedies Armenians have gone through in the past, it shows how we still stand here today, stronger than ever, continuing to grow by educating our future generations.
HCM: What was the Armenian genocide? Why is it not as discussed as the holocaust? How is the Armenian club shedding light on the upcoming anniversary?
ARSHO: The Armenian Genocide was one of the most terrible tragedies of the 20th century. Towards the end of World War I, the Ottoman Empire was trying to grasp as much land that it could. With Armenians being one of the weakest nations, as well as the only Christians at the time, the Ottoman Turks decided to exterminate Armenian population. The country’s heritage, traditions, religion, and especially the people were targeted as the Turks invaded Armenia.
April 24th 1915 marks the beginning of the Armenian Genocide. From this day on, over 1.5 million Armenians were murdered, raped, deported, and assaulted, forcing families to leave their homes and families. The Armenian Genocide is not recognized today like the holocaust is because the Turkish government denies that these atrocities ever took place. Even after 100 years, going into the 101st year, we have not gained the recognition, but despite the denial we continue to remember. We stand strong and demand justice.
The Montclair Armenian Club will participate in the commemoration that takes place every year in Times Square, as well as hold a joint event with Rutgers Armenian Club, in a commemoration next week, which includes a candlelight vigil.
HCM: Can you tell us about what is currently happening in Armenia?
ARSHO: Since the beginning of April this year, Azerbaijan violated the ceasefire on Armenia and there have been over 100 casualties combined on both sides. The clashes are being called the worst since the ceasefire in 1994. No one wants war, but the key difference between the two sides is their motive for military action – aggression vs. defense. Armenians are ready to protect their land, homes, and families, however necessary. They just want to live in peace.
HCM: Do you have a favorite quote you’d like to include?
ARSHO: “I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose history is ended, whose wars have been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, whose literature is unread, whose prayers are no longer answered…. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a new Armenia.” –William Saroyan
Follow the Armenian Student Organization on all social media platforms to learn more about our culture, and to join any events / meetings! The club is open to all Armenian, and non-Armenians students at MSU!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MontclairASO/?fref=ts
Twitter: @MSUArmenianClub
Instagram: @MSU_ArmenianClub