Armenian Revolutionary Federation

Providence “Kristapor” Gomideh

History of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation

The Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) is an Armenian Political Party founded in Tiflis, Georgia in 1890 by Kristapor Mikaelian, Stepan Zorian and Simon Zavarian. It brought together various factions of Armenian political groups similar to those operating in Russia and Eastern Europe at the time. The original aim of the party was autonomy of the Armenian populated areas in the Ottoman Empire. It is the largest political party among Armenians in the Diaspora.

The ARF operates among Armenian communities internationally, especially in Armenia and Lebanon, as well as in the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh. In the United States, the ARF functions as the umbrella organization to the Armenian National Committee of America, the Armenian Relief Society, the Homenetmen Armenian General Athletic Union, the Armenian Youth Federation, the Hamazkayin Cultural Foundation and many other community organizations and churches. It is comprised of two regions led by the Eastern and Western United States Central Committees.

Mission

·     The creation of a Free, Independent and United Armenia. The borders of United Armenia shall include all territories designated as Armenia by the Treaty of Sevres, as well as the regions of Artsakh, Javakhk and Nakhichevan.

·     International condemnation of the as yet unpunished Genocide committed by the Ottoman Empire against the Armenians, return of the lands which are claimed to be occupied and just reparations to the Armenian nation.

·     The gathering of worldwide expatriated Armenians on the lands of a united Armenia.

·     Strengthening Armenia’s statehood, institutionalization of democracy and the rule of law, securing the people’s economic well being, and establishment of social justice.

Who May Join The Providence “Kristapor” Gomideh?

Any Armenian aged 18 or older. Potential new members must participate in an educational program prior to being accepted. The Gomideh will research the candidate’s background and then a final determination will be made.

When Does the Providence “Kristapor” Gomideh Meet?

The Gomideh meets typically once a month on Sunday evenings at Sts. Vartanantz Church.

Who May I Contact In Order To Join?

Please contact Sarkis Varadian, Chairman  or email at sarkisvaradian@aol.com for more information.