The Plight of Armenian Christians: A Father’s Heartbreaking Imprisonment

The Plight of Armenian Christians: A Father’s Heartbreaking Imprisonment

Imagine a scenario where entire communities are forced to leave their homes, churches, and ancestral graves within a day. Picture elderly individuals collapsing on treacherous mountain paths, children crying from hunger, and families being torn apart forever. This deeply troubling reality unfolded for 120,000 Armenian Christians when Azerbaijan executed an ethnic cleansing campaign in Nagorno-Karabakh, also known as Artsakh. Among those suffering is Ruben Vardanyan, a man who now finds himself behind bars simply for trying to help his community.

A Dark Chapter in History

The plight faced by Armenians today echoes a tragic historical event. When the Ottoman Turks committed genocide against 1.5 million Armenian Christians in the early 20th century, the response from ordinary Americans was nothing short of heroic. They launched the Near East Relief Foundation, raising over $117 million at the time—equivalent to approximately $2.7 billion today—to rescue Armenian orphans and refugees. This humanitarian endeavor marked America’s initial significant international relief effort, with former President Wilson passionately highlighting the cause of “the starving Armenians,” a phrase that resonated deeply in American society.

A Legacy Honored

The Armenians rescued in that era became integral to America’s fabric. Every time Americans listen to Cher, watch Kim Kardashian’s shows, or recall the tennis victories of Andre Agassi, they witness the enduring legacy of Armenian Genocide survivors who found refuge and rebuilt their lives in the United States.

A Father’s Silence

Currently, my father, Ruben Vardanyan, remains voiceless after being detained for over 550 days. His imprisonment stems from his insistence on advocating for the rights of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh to exist in their ancestral homelands. He stands as a political prisoner, trapped due to his efforts to uplift those enduring hardship in his homeland.

The Broader Context of Political Detentions

He is not the only one suffering under this oppressive regime. Reports indicate that at least 23 other Armenian Christian prisoners are illegally held in Baku. Civil society organizations suggest that Azerbaijan has expanded its roster of political detainees to include more than 300 individuals. This troubling increase encompasses various Armenian and Azerbaijani human rights defenders, journalists, and activists who are being unjustly persecuted.

A Life Dedicated to Humanitarian Efforts

My father’s detention does not arise from a long-standing career as a political activist. Instead, it reflects his unwavering dedication to supporting those in need globally, including in Nagorno-Karabakh. Before his situation changed, he was recognized as a successful businessman and a humanitarian committed to philanthropy, particularly in Armenia. Part of his legacy includes co-founding the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, a global movement aimed at honoring humanitarians who risk their lives to assist others in crises around the world.

Hope Amidst Despair

As was the case over a century ago, there remains a glimmer of hope that the United States may rise to the occasion and support Armenians facing oppression for their nationality and faith today. Personally, I am living proof of this enduring hope, as my great-grandfather was saved by an American orphanage established by Christian missionaries in Etchmiadzin, Armenia.

Today, signals indicate that Armenians are not left to fend for themselves. Notably, former President Trump made commitments to safeguard persecuted Armenian Christians in Azerbaijan and elsewhere. His National Security Advisor, Michael Waltz, has also called for the release of Armenian political prisoners, reflecting the kind of supportive pressure that is crucial for meaningful change.

An Urgent Call for Justice

My family and I look towards the decisive leadership of President Donald Trump to fulfill his promise as a President of Peace. It is paramount that he makes it clear to the Azerbaijani regime that it must abide by international rules and demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace in the Caucasus. This requires the immediate release of my father, Ruben Vardanyan, alongside other Armenian prisoners who are unjustly detained.

In this complex and distressing situation, communities and authorities must work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of those unjustly imprisoned are heard. It is time to shine a light on the plight of Armenian Christians and advocate for their rights and freedoms, reminding the world that solidarity can bring forth tangible change.