Diplomatic Relations Between Armenia and Turkey?

I was pleased to learn of the recent thawing of the bitter feelings between Armenia and Turkey. This is not to say that diplomatic relations will be established tomorrow or even the near future. The fact, however, that both countries are gingerly talking to each other is a positive sign. Neither country benefits from throwing rocks.

Armenians have a legitimate cause for disliking the Turks. While it was many years ago, few Armenians can forgive the Turks for the wholesale murders of Armenians. It was and still is a source of friction between both countries.

As a former council member representing Northwest Fresno, I fondly remember the many Armenian families and business persons that were my constituents. They were always so generous in inviting me to their special events. I often kidded my Armenian friends that my surname was really Calhounian, the accent, of course, on the last syllable. It was always good for a good-natured chuckle. (Actually, I think that they thought I was a little goofy and just wanted to be polite.)

My cultural heritage draws principally from Scotland. And Scotland, as any fan of Mel Gibson's Braveheart knows, has a long history of ethnic strife. It has only been a few years since England has granted Scotland a significant degree of self-rule. It is no surprise then that living in Fresno with a large Armenian population that I recognize the Armenian pride in immigrating from sovereign nation, no longer being under the influence of the former Soviet Union. Also, the painful historical Turkish genocide weighs heavily on the Armenian people.

Life goes on, however. Germany and Japan in World War II and North Vietnam during the Vietnam Conflict, formerly our enemies, are now our allies. I am cautiously optimistic that Armenian and Turkey can also turn swords into plowshares in order to better improve the lives of the peoples of both countries.

On a personal note, the best of holiday wishes to my former Armenian constituents. We are proud of the contributions you and other Armenians have made to Fresno, California and the nation.

Coming Soon. . .

1. Thanks, Andy Souza. We will miss you.
2. City of Fresno pensions: Who knew what and when?
3. FUSD hires the insiders.

Comments are welcome. Click on "Comments" below or e-mail me at abriancalhoun@gmail .com.