Hagop Najarian, aka Hagopig, is an Armenian activist and artist who created the Stay Protected pin for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. All proceeds of the $12 pin go to GALAS, a nonprofit organization supporting queer Armenians.
The Stay Protected pin is a hard enamel pin measuring two by one-and-a-half inches. It features the pride flag on top, the transgender flag on the bottom, and an evil eye in the center, which symbolizes protection. In addition, the pin contains vivid Pantone colors and boasts two rubber clasps at the back for a firmer grip.
Hagop wants to create a better future for queer Armenians by supporting and uplifting organizations that work to foster a safe and supportive network for LGBTQIA+ people of Armenian descent.
“Normalizing queerness in the Armenian community is very important for our future generation,” Hagop said. “I hope to see a better future for my kids as well as other queer Armenian kids.”
As of 2017, Armenia was one of the least LGBTQ-friendly countries in Europe — Human Rights Watch typically ranks the country as a “hostile place” for those in the queer community. In addition, a 2016 survey found that 90 percent of Armenians support restricting the rights of the queer community.
Even in countries where the LGBTQIA+ community is more accepted, unique challenges and discrimination persist. For example, LGBTQIA+ youth are 120% more likely to be homeless, and 75 percent of queer youth have experienced discrimination at least once because of their orientation.
Hagop hopes the Stay Protected pin will become a symbol of pride and support for the LGBTQIA+ community while raising money for a nonprofit serving queer Armenians.
About GALAS
GALAS LGBTQ+ Armenian Society was founded by queer Armenians living in Los Angeles and looking for friendship, support, and a sense of belonging. GALAS adopted its first bylaws in 1999 and has grown from informal gatherings to a nonprofit organization hosting events year-round.
GALAS has built a safe and supportive network for the LGBTQ Armenian community by promoting their empowerment within their communities and forging relationships with allied and intersectional communities. It also provides vital resources to its members through educational conferences and access to health counseling.
In addition, GALAS awards two academic scholarships of $1,000 each to the LGBTQ+ Armenian community. The GALAS Annual Scholarship is for undergraduate- or graduate-level Armenian students who have demonstrated LGBTQ+ activism. The Nyrie Sevan Gharibian Scholarship for Arts and Education specifically supports undergraduate- or graduate-level students majoring in the arts or education.
Finally, the GALAS website includes a place for queer Armenians to share their coming-out stories to inspire and give hope to others. It also hosts fundraisers and donation drives to support those who face discrimination and violent attacks in Armenia.
Conclusion
The Stay Protected pin is an ideal way for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies to showcase pride and support while uplifting a nonprofit organization working to improve the lives of those in the queer Armenian community.
Media Contact
Company Name: Hagopig
Contact Person: Hagop Najarian
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: http://hagopig.com
