Remembering and Continuing: Detroit Marks 125th Anniversary of ARF

By Colette Gulian

DETROIT, Mich.—Young and young at heart together celebrated the dedication and accomplishments of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) at a special 125^th anniversary event in metropolitan Detroit on Sat., Jan. 30, at the Burton Manor in Livonia. From the moment they entered the manor until they left at “dawn’s early light,” attendees were surrounded by all aspects of “Arunod Trosh” as red banners and decorations were present everywhere. The promenade with its red carpet was a lined colonnade with banners featuring photographs of the first ARF members along with key ungerner of the local Gomideh and community centers.

Young and young at heart together celebrated the dedication and accomplishments of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) at a special 125th anniversary event in metropolitan Detroit on Sat., Jan. 30, at the Burton Manor in Livonia. — Young and young at heart together celebrated the dedication and accomplishments of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) at a special 125th anniversary event in metropolitan Detroit.

The hall then opened up to seating for more than 400 attendees, decorated in red tablecloths and staged in rich red drapes. No misunderstanding here: The coat of arms for the ARF was thoroughly yet tastefully displayed everywhere from the entryway, to the stage curtain, to the beautifully wrapped cookies, to the suave neck scarfs made available to guests.

The program began with the presentation of the flags by the local Homenetmen color guard. Both the American and Armenian national anthems were then performed by Araxie Tossounian and Helena Bardakjian. To honor those departed Armenians who dedicated their lives for the Armenian people, a moment of silence was observed. The evening brought two masters of ceremonies, Helena Bardakdjian speaking in English and Sanan Malkadjian in Armenian. The Detroit Hamazkayin “Arax” Dance Ensemble performed to the delight of their parents and others.

Detroit Hamazkayin 'Arax' Dance Ensemble — Detroit Hamazkayin ‘Arax’ Dance Ensemble

The MC’s welcomed everyone and announced guests from out of town. Raffi Ourlian, chairman of the Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh, gave his welcoming comments and updated the audience on the current works of the ARF nationally and locally. He then invited the evening’s guest speaker from the ARF Bureau, Hagop Der Khatchadourian, for his keynote address.

(L to R) Hagop Der Khatchadourian, Shant Jamgotchian

Der Khatchadourian gave a brief history of the ARF but focused on what was, has been, and remains the ideology of the ARF—that is, to unite the people, the lands, to focus on their productivity, and to see the success of all Armenians for the benefit of the nation. The ARF’s principle was and remains to unite all Armenians not only in Armenia but throughout the world and to pursue their rights wherever they live. To that end, Der Katchadourian noted that ARF members have always worked with the governments where they lived to ensure rights and equality for all peoples.

The anthem of the ARF, “Mshag Panvor” was vigorously sung by all members and the local clergy blessed the tables as the Burton Manor staff served a beautiful dinner. While guests sat down for dinner, videos of Armenian forces defending the homeland were shown on two large screens, along with scenes from different youth works in Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabagh).

A highlight for the evening was the presentation of the Hamagear of the Year award given by “Azadamard” Gomideh to those who have gone above the call of duty to assist in works of the ARF and recognition of the Armenian Cause. This year the Detroit community was very privileged to have two honorees: Ani Attar and Rita Dilanian, both of the local ARS chapters, stepped forward to receive their awards for their continuous and devoted work for the Armenian people.

(L to R) Ani Attar, Rita Dilanian, and Raffi Ourlian

After the anthems, speeches, prayers, dinner, and presentation of awards, the only thing that could possibly follow was the free-flowing celebration of Armenian patriotic songs, folk music, and dance, which was provided by legendary singer Harout Pamboukjian and his band. All proceeds from the event were donated to aid Syrian Armenians. With the great success of this anniversary, Ourlian said it best: The ARF “Azadamard” Gomidehoutiun is truly loved in Detroit by the many friends and supporters who came out to celebrate.