In the latest episode of Michigan Creates, I delve into a deeply personal and poignant topic: the preservation of culture amid the atrocities of genocide. This special edition, titled “Preserving Culture Amid Genocide & Holocaust,” reflects on the resilience of cultural identity in the face of attempts to erase it.

April holds significant meaning for the Armenian community, marking the remembrance of the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 1915. This period also coincides with Holocaust Remembrance Day, prompting a broader reflection on how communities maintain their cultural heritage despite efforts to obliterate it. It’s a painful but necessary conversation that connects generations through shared stories of loss, survival, and the enduring power of cultural expression.

In this episode, I explore how art, music, and storytelling serve as vital instruments for survival and remembrance. These creative expressions not only honor those we’ve lost but also ensure that our histories and identities endure. The background music features performances by myself on the kanun and Mal Barsamian on the oud, from our 2015 album Homage: A Tribute to Detroit Armenian Musicians, underscoring the lasting legacy and spirit of Detroit’s Armenian musicians.

The connection between memory and creativity is powerful. Through generations, Armenians have passed down their history not only through books and film but also through songs, culinary traditions, language, and dance. This isn’t just nostalgia—it’s resistance. Each preserved recipe, each spoken word of Armenian, each family story told around a dinner table is a statement: We are still here.

For me personally, preserving culture is not just a mission—it’s a responsibility. I’ve spent much of my professional and creative life amplifying Armenian heritage through music and storytelling. With this episode, I aim to highlight not only the atrocities that must never be forgotten, but also the incredible strength of communities that rise from trauma with dignity and creativity.

I invite you to listen to this heartfelt episode and join me in reflecting on the importance of safeguarding our cultural legacies. You can find the episode on Buzzsprout, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

Let us remember, honor, and preserve the rich tapestries of our cultures, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come.