Avedis Hadjian's "Secret Nation" Book Presentation

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On Sunday, November 4 St. Mary parishioners and friends gathered for a book presentation and signing by Mr. Avedis Hadjian. Mr. Eric Ashbahian, on behalf of St. Mary Parish Council, welcomed everyone and introduced the author. For his book, "Secret Nation: The Hidden Armenians of Turkey", the Mr. Hadjian traveled to the towns and villages once densely populated by Armenians, recording stories of survival and discovery from those who remain in a region that is deemed unsafe for the people who once lived there.

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Through reading some excerpts from his book the author took his audience to the heart of these hidden communities, unearthing their unique heritage and identity, and revealing the lives of a people that have been trapped in a history of denial for more than a century. 

In recent years, a growing number of "secret Armenians" have begun to emerge from the shadows. Spurred by the bold voices of journalists like Hrant Dink, the Armenian newspaper editor murdered in Istanbul in 2007, the pull towards freedom of speech and soul-searching is taking hold across the region. 

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At the end of the presentation, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions. The event was concluded with closing remarks and prayer by Der Hovsep and a book signing by the author.