Alfortville Hosts Exhibition Honoring the “20 Hunchakian Martyrs and Their Comrades”

ALFORTVILLE, FRANCE — A moving exhibition dedicated to the memory of the “20+2” Armenian heroes has opened at Le 148 cultural center, bringing renewed attention to one of the most significant yet often overlooked chapters of Armenian history.

The opening ceremony was attended by local officials and community representatives, including Philippe Car, France Bernichi, Victoria Dalar Simonian, Léna Melkonian, Serge Franceschi, and François Vitse, who were present on behalf of Mayor Luc Carvounas.

The exhibition pays tribute to the “20+2” — a group of Armenian political activists and intellectuals who sacrificed their lives in 1915 for the ideals of freedom and justice. Their legacy continues to resonate as a symbol of resilience and national identity.

Visitors are invited to experience the exhibition at Le 148 (148 rue Paul Vaillant-Couturier, Alfortville) through April 30. The program also features a 30-minute documentary that recounts their story, offering historical insight into their lives, struggle, and enduring impact.

Background: The 20 Hnchakian Martyrs

The “20” refers to twenty leaders of the Social Democrat Hunchakian Party who were arrested by Ottoman authorities in Constantinople during the early stages of the Armenian Genocide. They were accused of organizing resistance and advocating for reforms and self-determination for Armenians within the Ottoman Empire.

On June 15, 1915, these twenty Hunchakian leaders were executed by hanging in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). They became known as the “20 Hunchakian Martyrs,” remembered for their courage, political vision, and ultimate sacrifice.

The “+2” refers to two additional Armenian figures who were executed under similar circumstances, further symbolizing the broader wave of repression targeting Armenian intellectual and political leadership at the outset of the genocide.

A Tribute to Memory and Justice

The exhibition highlights the enduring significance of their sacrifice, emphasizing that while the gallows sought to silence them, their message endured. Today, their legacy is reflected in the continued pursuit of justice, remembrance, and the preservation of Armenian identity.

The Municipality of Alfortville organized the exhibition as part of its ongoing commitment to historical remembrance and solidarity with the Armenian community.

“A heartfelt thank you to the municipality and to Mayor Luc Carvounas for making this essential tribute to our collective memory possible,” organizers noted.

For more information or to attend the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to stop by Le 148 before its closing on April 30.