More children begin attending Fresno’s Armenian School – Hamlet and Lilit Chobanyans

The Armenian community in Fresno is one of the oldest and most respected, community members Hamlet and Lilit Chobanyans said in an interview with Alpha News. They have lived in the United States for 25 years but have maintained close ties with their homeland.

Speaking about Fresno’s Armenian community, Hamlet Chobanyan noted that being Armenian there is considered both an honor and an advantage. According to him, an Armenian surname in Fresno is so respected that even foreigners sometimes try to appear Armenian to find work or gain trust: “A Mexican named Gonzalez presents himself as Gonzalyan to work with Armenians.”

Lilit Chobanyan also spoke about the Armenian school, noting that next year will mark the school’s 50th anniversary. “Compared to previous years, more Armenian children are now attending the school,” she added.

The Chobanyans emphasized the unity of the community. “Fresno is a more conservative and modest community,” said Hamlet Chobanyan.

They also discussed their projects.
“In 2014 we launched a program aimed at helping residents of Armenia’s border villages. Our main beneficiaries are large families,” Hamlet Chobanyan said.