Genocide commemoration event held in New York
In commemoration of the 97th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, Armenians of New York were to hold an event in the city's Times Square on Sunday. However, the event did not take place due to adverse weather conditions. Those participating in the commemorative event gathered in the main hall of St. Vartan Cathedral instead.
The memorial function was observed by a one-minute silence in honour of the Genocide victims.
Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, prelate the Eastern Diocese of the U.S. of the Great House of Cilicia, made an opening speech. The event was attended by Genocide survivors Azniv Girakosian, Arshaluys Kirakosian and Piruz Galustian.
Speeches were made by Congressmen Robert Menendez, Frank Pallone, Charles Ellis "Chuck" Schumer, professor of the University of Michigan Dennis Papazian and others. The messages of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Cuomo were read out for the presentees.
People's Artist of Armenia Ruben Martirosyan and Raissa Mkrtchyan performed for the participants of the event.
Earlier on the same day, a liturgy was served in Armenian churches of New York in commemoration of the Genocide victims.
Robert Karapetyan
New York
