On Saturday, April 13, LACDMH partnered with the Armenian community to host a significant event addressing intergenerational trauma stemming from the 1915 genocide, which tragically ended the lives of 1.5 million Armenians. The gathering included notable therapists, dignitaries, and community figures who shared strategies for coping and healing for future generations affected by historical violence against Armenians and Armenia.
Mariam Nahapetyan, LACDMH Mental Health Service Coordinator II, gracefully facilitated the day’s proceedings. The event kicked off with a keynote address by Talin Khechoomian, L.C.S.W., who has experience working with soldiers in Armenia after the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War. Ms. Khechoomian provided insights into assisting traumatized soldiers and their families, who may find it difficult to discuss their traumatic experiences.
The event also featured speeches from California Senator Anthony Portantino and Jorge Partida Del Toro, Psy.D., from LACDMH, who contextualized the genocide amid contemporary global violence.
Participants enjoyed a traditional lunch and performances by young dancers from the Ararat Dance Studio. The musical ambiance was enriched by the talented pianist Robert Ghazaryan, who performed classical pieces.
The day concluded with a discussion on recovery and happiness lead by moderator Lucine Babayants, LMFT, Psy.D., and panelists Rehana Peiris, MFT, Psy.D.; Lilit Tadevosyan, high-school youth-group leader; and Vosgan Mekhitarian, ordained priest.
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day or Armenian Genocide Memorial Day is a public holiday in Armenia and is observed by the Armenian diaspora on April 24.
