To the One Who Refused to Hate Us

Azerbaijani activist Bahruz Samadov was imprisoned for his pro-peace stance. In this open letter, Sheila

Paylan highlights the brutal cost of dissent under Azerbaijan’s authoritarian regime and the moral failure of silence in the face of repression.

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To Be Sure

Sheila Paylan

Jun 2, 2025

Reflecting on her own struggle with imposter syndrome, Sheila Paylan unpacks the weight of inherited

trauma and the seduction of Armenian exceptionalism. Through the lens of identity and confidence, she calls for both an individual and collective shift—from needing to be seen as exceptional to doing the work of becoming truly excellent.

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Pride and Nemesis

Sheila Paylan

May 5, 2025

In the face of mounting concessions to Azerbaijan, Sheila Paylan argues that Armenia risks trading

dignity for illusionary peace and explores the fine line between pragmatism and surrender, and why national self-respect must never be collateral.

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Party of One

Sheila Paylan

Apr 7, 2025

In this deeply personal reflection, Sheila Paylan challenges cultural norms and redefines autonomy, asserting that

womanhood should not be predominantly defined by motherhood. Instead, she advocates for the freedom to craft a meaningful life on one's own terms, embracing a broad spectrum of female identities and experiences.

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Are You Sure That We Are Awake?

Sheila Paylan

Mar 10, 2025

In a world increasingly shaped by propaganda, disinformation, and spectacle-driven politics, staying awake, both literally

and figuratively, has never been more critical. In this month’s column, Sheila Paylan explores the urgency of reclaiming reality in an era of digital illusions.

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One Year Down

Sheila Paylan

Feb 10, 2025

"Unleashed" turns one, marking a year of storytelling, self-discovery, and deep engagement. Reflecting on the

past year's articles, Sheila Paylan revisits personal and cultural themes, embracing growth, vulnerability, and the power of expression while looking forward to another year of breaking boundaries and embracing authenticity.

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Ride the Wave

Sheila Paylan

Jan 27, 2025

Grappling with the “New World Disorder” following Donald Trump’s return to office and his sweeping

policy changes, Sheila Paylan draws on her personal battles and urges us to harness historical wisdom and enduring human spirit to navigate these turbulent times.

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Fires and Fascists

Sheila Paylan

Jan 13, 2025

As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, exposing unpreparedness and policy failures, parallels emerge with Armenia's challenges

amid escalating threats by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Sheila Paylan highlights the need for vigilance and readiness against both natural disasters and geopolitical crises.

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