The Independence Day
99% of the Armenian voters stated their determination to have an Independent State – Republic of Armenia when they came together on September 21, 1991 to participate in the all-Armenian referendum.
15 years after - as 3.5 thousand troops march through the biggest and most beautiful square of Armenia, many Armenians view the celebrations and official speeches with mixed feelings. And while the First and Second Armenian TV channels burst into tearful pride under the last sounds of the national Anthem (soon to be changed into one of these: Anthems), many don’t even bother remembering the Anniversary in the tight family circle – where all the true feelings come afloat.
My personal views on the Armenian government and politics can be described as strictly oppositional. Still, I find it hard to observe peoples’ bitterness towards the Independence.
Independence is an absolute value, in spite of all problems it has brought to us. Let us celebrate this one day with pride – after all – it is only once a year! Hail to the Independent Armenia!
I am in town for the festivities. I remember 1991 referendum. It all was very confusing, who knew that the soviet would end the way it did. Having said that, I don;’t understand bitterness, there is no going back and Armenia turned out all right in these 15 years, take it from an outsider.
The parade was awesome, the festivities are great. I am enjoying my time here 110%. Even Dilijan was great
Glad to see this blog coming back to life, as the oters (cilicia at al) are too ‘elit’ for my humble taste.
Comment by Tim — 9/21/2006 @ 10:10 pm
I’m verry sorry for not having the chance to celebrate the Day of Independence as I did 2 years ago on top of mountain Aragac…………. because of the simple reason that I’m very far from my Hayastan right now:(
Hopefully I’ll be back to Armenia pretty soon!
Comment by Liana — 9/29/2006 @ 9:14 pm