‘TEARS OF JOY’ MARK GENOCIDE MEMORIAL DEDICATION
by Tom Vartabedian

May 25, 2012

BOSTON, Mass.-A persistent and nagging rain failed to dampen the
spirits of nearly 1,000 attendees who turned out May 22 at Rose Kennedy
Greenway for the much-anticipated dedication of Armenian Heritage Park.

A scene from the dedication (photo by Michael Casey) The event marked
a decade-long $6 million project that captured the hearts and minds
of Armenians from coast-to-coast.

For those with a grim outlook, they felt the storm was just another
burden shouldered by Armenians throughout its long and turbulent
history.

Others felt the raindrops represented “holy water” and were tears of
joy shed by the 1.5 million martyrs over such an imposing memorial
park and monument.

Even Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, whose inspiration
helped guide the project, shed a tear in his closing remarks after
being overcome with emotion.

“I think people worried about this being a memorial and that was
never our intent,” said Koutoujian, an honorary co-chairman. “We had
to drive the issue home and explain that this is something we are
all here to embrace. It’s not just an Armenian heritage park. It’s
about all our experiences.”

People sat on rain-soaked chairs toting umbrellas while others stood
unprotected from the rain. A canopied stage shielded speakers and
other VIPs. A barrage of cameras also withstood the elements.

“This park will stand in tribute to these Armenian immigrants and
many other immigrant communities who escaped tragedy and misfortune
to find safety on our shores,” said James Kalustian, the foundation’s
president. “This park commemorates those who lost their lives in
the genocide against the Armenian people and all other genocides
that followed.”

Visitors may relax on benches in the shade of trees by historic Faneuil
Hall, walk the Labyrinth (a circular winding path paved in granite and
set in lawn), take delight as children splash in a single jet of water
at its center, or marvel at the 12-sided abstract geometric sculpture,
a split dodecahedron resting on a 16-foot diameter reflecting pool.

The Labyrinth celebrates the journey of life, symbol of an eternity
etched within its granite center. Annually, the sculpture will
reconfigure to commemorate lives lost during the 1915-23 genocide
and all other massacres that have marked the immigrant experience.

“The quest for human dignity comes through when you talk to the
proponents of this project,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “Their
yearning for recognition and acknowledgement, along with the fact it
was a gift to the Commonwealth, makes it a very moving opportunity.”

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino called the Armenians “a resilient population
who has made tremendous strides since the genocidal years.”

“They’ve contributed immensely to the wellbeing and enhancement of
Greater Boston,” he pointed out. “We’ve offered hope and refuge to
immigrants seeking to create a new life in America. This memorial
park is a tribute to their proud heritage.”

U.S. Congressman Ed Markey, a proponent for genocide recognition as
one of state’s most venerable legislators, urged his colleagues to
pass recognition.

“As we approach the centennial in 2015, it’s time for our country
to stand among other nations of the world in bringing credence to
the Armenian Genocide,” he said. “Human rights are something we must
embrace in our daily lives.”

A scheduled appearance by Armenia President Serge Sarkiain was
cancelled during the final hour. His place was taken by Foreign
Minister Eduard Nalbandian, Tatoul Markarian, Armenia’s ambassador
to the United States, and Hranush Hakobyan, minister of the diaspora,
each of whom delivered stirring messages.

A dinner the night before drew 450 patrons, thanks to the generosity
of such benefactors as Carolyn Mugar, James Kalustian, Noubar and
Anna Afeyan, and the Nishan Atinizian family.

Registrar of Motor Vehicles Rachel Kaprielian, honorary co-chairman,
served as mistress of ceremonies. Afeyan spoke of the resurgence of
economic conditions in Armenia. Prayers were offered by Archbishop
Khajag Barsamian and Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.

Entertainment was provided by Knarik Nerkararyan, Sevag Khatchadourian,
and Levon Hovsepian.

Three awards were presented by the Armenian Embassy for dedicated
service in the diaspora to James Kalustian, for his work as foundation
president and other efforts; Dr. Herand Markarian, for his many years
as a devoted playwright; and Noubar Berberian, whose work in Armenian
media remains noteworthy. Markarian’s play “Silence” just wrapped up
a successful tour off-Broadway.

Billed as a gift to the City of Boston and Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, representatives from 37 churches and organizations
all contributed to the fruition of this project.