The right to vote is essential in any democracy. This is a value Americans share with Armenians and one that must be protected and preserved. The concept that every citizen gets a voice in electing their leaders is so cherished that, for centuries, people around the world have fought and even died to attain or preserve that right. The world …
Many of our American holidays can be quite familiar to Armenians. For instance, while we might celebrate Christmas on different days, Armenians and Americans enjoy some similar traditions, from Santa Claus or “Dzmer Pap” to festive Christmas décor, trees, lighting, and music. But every January, after our Christmas trees have been taken down and the New Year’s confetti finally cleaned …
In my travels around Armenia, I love hearing stories people tell me about their friends and family in America – often in Glendale – or about their plans to visit Florida, New York, or Boston as tourists. I am thrilled when I meet someone who has visited or studied in the United States and is back in Armenia sharing their …
Do you ever stop to pause and think about how much we have to be grateful for? As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives and to-do lists. So I always try to take a moment to reflect and give thanks for all the blessings around me. Of …
In every country I’ve served, I’ve found that the best way to get to know a place is by travelling—getting out to see the country and meet its people. And that’s just what I’ve been doing here in Armenia! Nearly every month since arriving in February, I have been on the road: exploring different marzes (regions), from the most northern, …
Over the past quarter century, cyberspace has become an increasingly inseparable part of life for billions of people around the world. It now plays a foundational role in our social, economic, and political lives. Cyberspace has created enormous opportunities to expand communication, commerce, and the free exchange of ideas. The United States firmly believes in an open, interoperable, reliable, and …
Some of you may have noticed that I was absent from Armenia for a few weeks this summer. During a trip back to the United States to celebrate my grandmother’s birthday, I broke my ankle and had to delay my return. While I was happy to spend more time with my family back in Ohio, I was disappointed to miss …
As you may know, July 4th is a big day for the United States. It was this day, back in 1776, when we declared our independence from Great Britain. It was the day we embarked on a journey to create a government of, by, and for the people. I am writing from my home in Ohio, and while it is …
In the United States, we observe Memorial Day on the last Monday of May. Many Americans mark the day by getting together with friends and family and enjoying the spring weather with a picnic or barbeque, and many towns hold parades. But first and foremost, this is a day when we remember the men and women who died in service …
April 26 marks World Intellectual Property Day, a time when we recognize the power of innovation and the tremendous effect it has on our lives. Here in Armenia, I have already witnessed firsthand the tremendous ingenuity of the Armenian people. I attended my first hackathon a couple weeks ago and witnessed the genius of young, tech-savvy Armenians as they came …