Sevak Khatchadorian’s ACA 2026 Gala Remarks
On behalf of the Armenian Council of America, thank you for joining us tonight for the 2026 ACA Gala.
This evening is more than a celebration. We come together as Armenian Americans, friends, supporters, and partners in a cause greater than any one individual. We are united by the belief that advocacy is not optional. It is essential.
For our community, advocacy has never been abstract. It is personal, rooted in memory, shaped by history, and driven by responsibility. We know the cost of silence. We know what happens when truth is denied, human rights are ignored, and the suffering of a people is treated as negotiable.
That is why advocacy still matters.
Advocacy also matters because democracy matters. Armenia’s future must be secure, democratic, and free. We must be honest in questioning the judgment of those who continue to undermine Armenia’s democratic progress. Armenia’s future must belong to its citizens, not to entrenched elites, narrow political interests, or foreign powers whose influence has too often come at Armenia’s expense. True advocacy for Armenia means standing for a stronger Armenia rooted in democratic institutions, the rule of law, accountability, and the will of its people.
The people of Armenia deserve peace, but more than that, they deserve a just peace, one rooted in human rights, security, accountability, and national dignity. As Americans, we must ensure the United States stands for the rights of the forcibly displaced people of Artsakh. Demand the U.S. administration call for the release of Armenian hostages in Baku. Affirm the sovereignty of the Republic of Armenia and reject aggression against its internationally recognized territory. And as Armenians it means urging the United States and the international community to remain engaged in support of democracy, human rights, and genuine regional stability.
These principles do not advance on their own. They advance through the sacrifices and dedication of those noble people who would see justice and liberty be a right for all.
That is why tonight is also about gratitude.
No organization can fulfill its mission without its supporters. No advocacy effort can succeed without volunteers. No cause can endure without the people who quietly, consistently, and generously give their time, energy, talent, and resources.
To our donors and supporters, thank you. Your generosity does more than sustain programs or events. It gives strength to a voice. It helps ensure that Armenian American concerns are heard in the halls of government, in public discourse, and in the broader civic life of this country.
To our volunteers, thank you. You are the backbone of this work. So much of what the public sees is only possible because of what you do behind the scenes. The phone calls, the emails, the planning, the outreach, the setup, the follow-up, the long hours, and the unwavering commitment all matter. Your service is an expression of faith in community and belief in purpose.
And to everyone here tonight, your presence matters. In a world that often encourages indifference, showing up is meaningful. Standing together is meaningful. Believing that our voices can still make a difference is meaningful.
The Armenian Council of America remains committed to principled advocacy, civic engagement, historical truth, and justice. We will continue strengthening Armenian American participation in public life, building bridges, amplifying our community’s voice, and advancing the Armenian Cause with seriousness and resolve.
This work belongs to all of us. It belongs to those who came before us, to the Nazarbekians, Maros, Sapah-Gulians, Mary Beylerians, Setrak Shahens, Vartan Derads, Sagherians, Gulvartians, Sinanians and Khudanians, who carried this cause through hardship and sacrifice. It belongs to those with us now, who continue that work with courage and conviction. And it belongs to the next generation, who must inherit not only our memory, but also our commitment.
Tonight, we honor those whose lives reflect that commitment in the highest sense, individuals whose service, dedication, and example have strengthened our community and advanced the values we hold dear.
We are also especially proud this evening to honor Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. with the Stepan Sapah-Gulian Integrity Award. This recognition is reserved for individuals whose public service reflects principle, moral clarity, and steadfast commitment to justice. Past recipients of this distinguished award include Senator Adam Schiff and former Member of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Garo Paylan.
Congressman Pallone is being recognized for his longstanding and unwavering support of issues of concern to Armenian Americans and the Republic of Armenia. Over many years, he has been a consistent and principled voice in support of Armenian Genocide recognition, Armenia’s security and sovereignty, Artsakh Armenians, and the pursuit of justice, accountability, and human rights. His record reflects not only friendship, but conviction, and tonight we are proud to recognize that integrity and commitment.
The Stepan Sapah-Gulian Integrity Award will be formally presented to Congressman Pallone in Washington, D.C. when Congress reconvenes.
And now, It is now my distinct honor and privilege to invite our Lifetime Service Award recipients to join us as we recognize their extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy.
Jirair Giragosian
Garine Depoyan
Vahe Atchabahian
Lena Manoukian
Vasken Kaltakjian
Lets give a big round of applause and thank these ladies and gentlemen for their lifeline of service.
