On Wednesday, September 26, 2012, the presentation of Dr. Rubina Peroomian’s latest book The Armenian Genocide in Literature: Perceptions of Those Who Lived Through the Years of Calamity was held at the Prelacy “Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian” Hall. The event was held under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and organized jointly by the Prelacy, Armenian Educational Foundation, and Hamazkayin Western Region. It was one of several undertakings celebrating the “Year of the Armenian Book” as proclaimed by H.H. Catholicos Aram I. Members of clergy were among the guests in attendance, as well as Executive Council Chair Mrs. Rima Boghossian, members of the Executive Council and community organizations.
The event began with welcoming remarks by MC Mrs. Dzovinar Melkonian, who then invited the evening’s first speaker UCLA Professor Dr. Hagop Koulloujian.
Dr. Koulloujian gave an overview of Dr. Peroomian’s book, noting that foundation of the book is the correlation between calamity and literature, especially witness testimonies found in literature, and concluded his remarks by stating that this and similar books resonates in each of us the tragedies we have experienced as a people.
A cultural program followed, with a trio of Khachadourian pieces performed by pianist Mrs. Lydia Teloonts.
The MC then invited Dr. Peroomian to deliver her remarks and thoughts. Dr. Peroomian first thanked the Prelate for hosting the event, the organizers for their efforts, and also the guests for their attendance and encouragement. She noted that Genocide research is an arduous process which she has dedicated herself too for many years. Dr. Peroomian also noted that it is an emotionally demanding process and one that requires the difficult task of setting aside personal emotions to complete the research accurately. She also iterated that in her research she does not aim to prove that the Genocide occurred, because it is already a proven fact documented in many historical books, memoirs, and other writings. Dr. Peroomian concluded by emphasizing that Genocide related literature and accounts must not be hidden away; we must not forget our past so that the memory and sacrifices of our martyrs are not forgotten.
The event concluded with the Prelate’s message and blessings. The Prelate began by first highly commending Dr. Peroomian for her latest achievement in preparing this important book. He lauded her valuable contributions to the advancement of Genocide research through her vast publications as a respected scholar and researcher, her important contributions to the education of our youth as the author of Hai Tad textbooks published by the Prelacy and other textbooks used by Prelacy Schools’ students, and her service to our Church and community as a former Executive Council and Board of Regents member. The Prelate also thanked the organizers, attendees, and especially the speakers and participants for their presentations. Reflecting on the event, His Eminence stated that the presentations brought forth witness testimonies through which we felt and relived the emotions of our martyrs, which serves to drive and motivate us even further to continue the struggle for our national rights and demands.