Fewer Armenian Americans are speaking the language of their native country, weakening the ability of the diaspora to preserve its culture, Glendale News-Press quotes expert Hagop Gulludjian.

“Since 1970, the use of the Armenian language has decreased dramatically in all areas of life of Diaspora, including weddings, initiations, schools and newspapers,” Gulludjian said.

While Armenian organizations focused their efforts on education during the first half of the 20th century, currently diaspora favors issues that are less related to cultural survival, including recognition of the Armenian Genocide and assistance to homeland.

Gulludjian proposed the creation of a “critical mass” of language users, which will result in more books and newspapers being published in Armenian and the language being used more often in homes, churches and at social events.