An Armenian Village’s Accidental Guest

Author: Ani Hakobyan

30.10.17

Ending up in the village of Lanjaghbyur was a bit of a detour for Meron Deldebon - the Ethiopian-born, United States-raised, 27-year-old had intended to apply for a volunteering job in China, but somehow ended up in Armenia instead. Meron herself was a novelty for the 2,000 residents - a black girl is a not a common sight in the village in central Armenia.

It took sometime for the Peace Corps volunteer to deal with the constant stares and the different customs - why would neighbours visit her host family whenever they feel like it? Two years on, the English language teacher has become part of the community - she never forgets to bring sweets during a visit, does not refuse a coffee during a visit, and expects endless toasts during celebrations, funerals included.

Her skin color no longer draws attention - but her time in the little Armenian village has come to an end.