Dr. George Bournoutian’s lecture at AGBU Toronto
On Friday November 4th, Dr. George Bournoutian, author and professor of East European and Middle Eastern Studies at Iona College, New York, returned to Toronto to deliver his thought-provoking lecture entitled “1823 Russian Survey of Karabagh as a Proof of Armenian Presence in the Region” at AGBU’s Alex Manoogian Cultural Centre in Toronto.
In his lecture, Dr. Bournoutian presented findings from his research on Karabagh – the result of 6 months of inquiry during which he worked 10 hours a day, 7 days a week. Dr. Bournoutian’s evidence focused on a copy of the original version of the 1823 Russian Survey on Karabagh which the professor stumbled upon in 2010 after an arduous search. After studying this survey at length, Bournoutian discovered that it provided, for the very first time, reliable information about the Armenian presence at the time in the entire Karabagh province (not just mountainous Karabagh). Bournoutian noted that the survey provides population numbers as well as information regarding tax payments among different populations groups (given that the purpose of the study was to determine the amount of money Russia would collect from each area). Most importantly, the survey provided evidence indicating that there was a strong Armenian presence in mountainous Karabagh prior to 1828. Specifically, it showed that Armenians formed 96.6% of the population of mountainous Karabagh. In addition, the survey proved the existence of a large Armenian population in Zangezur – over 83% of the population. Even though overall, Armenians formed about 25% of the population of entire Karabagh in 1822, the information provided in this survey, Bournoutian remarked, was groundbreaking.
Dr. Bournoutian subsequently explained that some historians deliberately deleted references to this Armenian presence in certain reproductions of the survey published later, and that these doctored versions of record books were subsequently sent to universities in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Until recently, there has never been statistical information on the population of Karabagh prior to 1828. The availability of this new data allowed attendees of Dr. Bournoutian’s lecture to gain a greater understanding of the Karabagh situation all the while serving as a reminder that one must always be critical of the information he or she reads. Finally, Bournoutian’s talk stirred debate about the manner in which perspective and political interest shapes historical documentation.
Toronto’s AGBU Annual Bazaar A Great Hit
November 16, 2011 · Filed Under Past Events, Social
It was a dreary autumn day outside the AGBU Alex Manoogian Cultural Centre in Toronto but inside it was just the opposite, bright and breezy; a day many had been anxiously awaiting for a year, the day of the annual AGBU Bazaar. It was a day to meet friends, socialize, catch up on what’s been happening in the AGBU community and of course, take advantage of sampling and stocking up on the wonderful wares and delectable delicacies on display.
An animate and lively crowd began entering the main hall of the Centre as soon as the doors were opened at noon. Savoury aromas drifted throughout the building as parents with their children, grandparents with their grandchildren, couples and singles, young and old, filed by the rows of tables laden with heaps of luscious foods artfully decorated and arranged; a true feast for the eyes. So hard to choose! And once the food was purchased and the seats and tables secured, the consumption of the goodies became a gourmet’s delight. Mmms and yums were heard all around as people tasted their meals. The food was wonderful but the elegantly decorated hall, the memorable music playing in the background, the large cheery crowd present all contributed to create a warm and festive mood that lingered long into the evening, well past when the last morsel of food had been eaten.
Such a day does not just magically come together. It takes a great many people to plan and create such wonderful events. Bravo to all the many master chefs, because that’s what those hardworking AGBU ladies are, who prepared such an incredible variety of palatable foods. Bravo to the organizers, headed by the Executive Director of the Toronto AGBU, Salpi Der Ghazarian. Bravo to the volunteers who decorated the hall, who stood behind the tables and counters, who donated goods or made donations to ensure the success of the bazaar. This was a true collaborative, co-operative and concordant effort in the true spirit of the AGBU. And the fact that the bazaar fell on the 13th of November this year may have convinced those afflicted with triskaidekaphobia into believing that good things can indeed happen on the 13th. For the Toronto AGBU Bazaar of 2011 was definitely a good thing; in fact for those of us who were lucky enough to be there, it was a very very good thing. Can’t wait until next year!
Dr. Isa Basmajian
Leadership in Organization – a YP event
November 1, 2011 · Filed Under Past Events, Press Releases
AGBU Press Office 55 East 59th Street New York, NY 10022-1112 Phone: 212.319.6383, x118 Fax: 212.319.6507 Email: press@agbu.org Website:www.agbu.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
AGBU’s Young Professionals of Toronto Hosts “Leadership in Organizations” Panel Discussion with Top Executives On Sunday, October 16, 2011, over 60 Armenian young professionals attended a panel discussion entitled “Leadership in Organizations: Experiential Strategies for Success,” hosted by the AGBU Young Professionals of Toronto (YPTO) at the AGBU Toronto Center. The “Leadership in Organizations” panel discussion was led by successful business leaders from various industries and backgrounds, including Silva Basmajian, executive producer of the National Film Board of Canada – Ontario Centre; Tanya Khojajian, senior manager of Accenture; Berge Papazian, who is secretary of the AGBU Board of Directors and a founding partner of Papazian, Heisey, Myers, Barristers & Solicitors; and Jack Stepanian, formerly of Rogers Communications and CIBC bank.
During the course of the lively discussion, which was moderated by YPTO Steering Committee member Talar Sahsuvaroglu, panelists shared their insights and experiences on personal and strategic leadership, and engaged in a Q&A with audience members. The discussion was motivating and encouraging, and offered attendees valuable tips and secrets for success. The panel discussion was followed by a networking reception providing YPs an opportunity to meet and connect with each other as well as with the guest speakers.
The AGBU Young Professionals of Toronto, a volunteer-run organization, has been offering Armenian young professionals a diverse calendar of events since 2006. YPTO is dedicated to bringing together like-minded young professionals, and offering resources to help promote talent, self-development, and personal and professional success. For more information about YPTO, please email yptoronto@gmail.com or visit
Established in 1906, AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the world’s largest non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City, AGBU preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs, annually touching the lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.
For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, please visit
Kids’ Halloween party at the AGBU
On Saturday, October 29, the AGBU Sports & Youth Committee of Toronto hosted a Halloween Costume Party for the youth. Children of all ages dressed up in their creative costumes and enjoyed an afternoon of fun games, contests, prizes, food and face painting. On behalf of the entire SYC, we would like to thank all the parents, volunteers and children who made this event a success! A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the parents who contributed delicious treats and generous donations. Your support is greatly appreciated!
As a first time event for the SYC, this costume party was warmly received and we look forward to organizing more events and activities for all ages in the future. The Sports & Youth Club is dedicated to providing an opportunity for Armenians of all ages who value their culture, to participate in sporting and social activities and to develop lifelong relationships with both the AGBU Community and their peers. Our next event is a ZUMBA exercise event taking place on Sunday, November 20, 2011. Space is limited so please RSVP in advance!
For any questions or comments, you may reach us at torontosyc@gmail.com.
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AGBU Toronto Images
