ARMENIAN HERITAGE WALK DEDICATION
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Held on April 25, 2026
We were excited to host more than 1,000 guests gathered at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Saturday, April 25, 2026 to celebrate the official dedication of the Armenian Heritage Walk. A dynamic program honored both the original 1976 Young Meher statue visionaries and the many individuals; foundation leaders, designers, builders, volunteers, and donors, whose years of dedication brought the project to life. Performances by an intercommunal choir, Armenian dancers, musicians, and actors created an emotional and uplifting atmosphere, drawing both cheers and reflection from the crowd.
Master of ceremonies and Dedication Committee Chairperson Yeretzgin Arpy Minasian framed the moment as both deeply personal and broadly cultural, emphasizing identity, resilience, and unity. Clergy from the Armenian Apostolic and Armenian Catholic Churches offered blessings and reflections, highlighting gratitude, faith, and the enduring strength of the Armenian people. Their words, along with the symbolism woven throughout the walk, underscored the project as more than a physical space; it stands as a lasting expression of heritage, remembrance, and renewal for the community.
Below is a gallery of photos from the event.
Photos by: Alec Balian, Gary Altoonian, Raffi Berberian
Board member, Steve Barsamian, offered a history of the project explaining how the committee was formed to restore the Young Meher statue, which was gifted to the city of Philadelphia in 1976 during the bicentennial. He shared the committee’s desire to transform the space around the statue, which turned the site into a landmark. He asked City Representative Jazelle Jones to the podium so she could formally receive the site on behalf of Mayor Parker and the City of Philadelphia. Jones took to the microphone and reflected on how important the Armenian people have been to the city for over 100 years, and expressed how various cultures living together is what brings the city to life. Builder David Hoplamazian then thanked the various local, state and national officials who sent congratulatory messages while recognizing the important collaboration with both public and private entities. He emphasized the remarkable support from our suppliers and skilled labor.
Keynote speaker and board president Kurk Selverian began addressing the crowd by recognizing the extraordinary efforts of landscape designer Ned Moore, architect and creative director Simon Koumjian III and builder David Hoplamazian. He explained how the trio worked closely together, always striving for excellence and high quality. Selverian then presented a heartwarming theatrical tribute to the Armenian people, beginning with a William Saroyan poem and taking the audience through their struggle, survival and success as they were welcomed to America. He was accompanied by the angelic voice of Hooshere Bezdikian, known as Hooshere on all streaming platforms (@hoosheremusic & hooshere.com) who sang a specially selected song after each segment. Gifted pianist Steven Odabashian accompanied both of them on piano providing melodies which reinforced the message. The performance culminated in an impassioned tribute to the United States and the singing of “America the Beautiful” ’by Bezdikian together with many in attendance. The festivities ended with a ribbon cutting, flag processional of youth who stepped foot on the path for the first time, and a drum and dance performance by the Armenian Sister Academy students. Guest then flocked onto the walkway to rejoice in its beauty and lay white carnations on the statue to commemorate the lives lost in the genocide.