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Hye Sharzhoom is a supplement of The Collegian and the newspaper of the Fresno State Armenian Students Organization and the Armenian Studies Program and is funded by the Associated Students. Articles may be reprinted provided Hye Sharzhoom is acknowledged. Hye Sharzhoom welcomes prose, poetry, articles and other material from its student readers.

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Hye Sharzhoom

Armenian Students Mark Republic of Armenia’s Independence Day with Armenian Music and Dance

By Staff Report

Oct 23, 2024

Barlow Der Mugrdechian

ASO members marking the independence day of the modern Republic of Armenia.

On Friday, September 20th, the members of the Armenian Students Organization (ASO) celebrated Armenian Independence Day near the Fresno State Library. On September 21, 1991, the modern Republic of Armenia declared its independence from the former Soviet Union.

With live music and traditional dancing, they showcased Armenian culture to the campus community. Students passing by paused to observe, admire the posters, and snap pictures.

Andrew Hagopian, Jonathan Chardukian, and Michael Mazman performed traditional Armenian music while ASO members danced in the front of the Free Speech area.

The music attracted students on the way to class, who were asked about their knowledge of Armenia. Many students learned more about the Republic of Armenia.

The ASO executives were pleased with the community’s support for the event, which held special significance given the transitional period the Republic of Armenia is currently experiencing.

The ASO is planning several events for the semester including a football tailgate, a Thanksgiving “Friendsgiving,” and new ASO t-shirts and hoodies.