On October 13, 2018, Hamazkayin’s Detroit Chapter held a gala celebration of Hamazkayin’s 90th anniversary and its own 50th. Entertainment for the evening was provided by the chapter’s Arax Dance Ensemble and the renowned singer Sibil, who travelled from Istanbul for the event.
Shoghere Ourlian, chairperson of the chapter’s executive board, opened the celebration. Addressing close to 600 people in attendance, she thanked everyone for their efforts. She thanked especially Herman and Shoushan Hintiryan, who sponsored the event, and the ARF Detroit Azadamard Gomideh, which has always provided the chapter with moral and financial support.
Next to speak was Hamazkayin Eastern Region chairperson Arevig Caprielian, who credited the foresight of Hamazkayin founders Levon Shant, Nigol Aghpalian, Hamo Ohanjanian, and Kasbar Ipegian for the existence of a culture today that needs to be protected in every way. The culture lives on, she said, because Hamazkayin has dedicated members like those in Detroit. She thanked the founders of the chapter, Hovagim Manougian, Sebouh Toukhanian, Ara Gharibian, Samuel Asarian, and Arpi Kilian, whose vision brought about the formation of the chapter in December 1967.She ended her speech by emphasizing the importance of preserving Armenian culture for families and future generations.