It’s Monday and it’s a holiday: the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s independence from the Soviet Republic. I am having my morning coffee with my companion Marcello (the cat!) in the garden. I am almost afraid to step out, because of the excitement I anticipate in the streets today. There has been heightened security in certain areas, Republic Square has been outfitted with stages, lighting and sound system for the evening’s concerts and performances, and road access in the vicinity is pedestrian-only.
As I write this, I think of COURSE I have to go out! So Siroune and I arranged to meet at Republic Square, have dinner, and catch some of the evening festivities. During the day, I did a little reading . Shadows of Time: The Photographic Art of Gagik Harutyunyan (1970–1995) is an interesting book that highlights the challenges of producing art without the ideology of a Soviet state. I was reminded of how recently Armenia has been independent, and how the influence of Soviet governance (as well as the lack of) continues to affect Armenia’s present and future in so many ways.
I also read an article by Sossie Kasbaryan, The Myth and Reality of “return” – Diaspora in the Homeland”. Published in 2009, Kasbaryan interviewed 40 “sojourners” to understand their motivations in coming to Armenia. She highlights the diversity of reasons, and interprets diasporan as well as Armenian citizens’ concerns, attitudes and receptivity to one another. While some things have changed, the article is still very instructive in understanding the dynamics of diasporan/Armenia relations.
These readings were serendipitously very appropriate for the day! I then walked down to Republic Square, met Siroune for dinner at Tun Lahmahjo, and returned to the square to view the celebrations. The crowd was joyful, and excited to see the performances on stage. Although it was very crowded, everyone was polite, respectful, and orderly. A great evening, overall!
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