As the Armenian Diaspora and human rights activists from around the world prepare for the 102nd Anniversary Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, Angelenos will join community artists to raise awareness of genocide prevention and education through the 9th annual Silence the Lies, Rock the Truth concert. The concert combines forces with the “Genocide 101” Educational Charitable event that took place last year.
“We find special meaning in working with the community to bring an artistic component to remembrance,” Kzirian added. Kzirian has served as Chairman of the AYF Central Executive in the Eastern United States and Executive Director and Chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region.
Silence the Lies, Rock the Truth! is a social justice concert dedicated to raising awareness of the Armenian Genocide. For the past several years, socially conscious artists in the Los Angeles area have come together to work with the community through music, activism and commemoration. VI·ZA, The Dirty Diamond, Killikiah and Ayline will take the stage on April 23, 2017 at the Roxy Theatre as the arts will inspire the need for recognition and contrition through a uniquely powerful performance that will indeed Silence the Lies and Rock the Truth.
“As youth of the Armenian Diaspora, we are constantly engaging in meaningful ways to fight for human rights while maintaining ties to our homeland,” said AYF Youth Corps Representative Nazeli Khodabakhsh. “Silence the Lies, Rock the Truth is an opportunity for us commemorate through artistic expression, and helps provide the means for us to continue to play a role in the future of Armenia, through programs like AYF Youth Corps,” she added.
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Various community organizations, including the Armenian Youth Federation – Western Region, Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region, and UCLA Alpha Gamma Alpha are teaming up with these artists to make for a high impact show.
“We’ve been organizing this concert for many years, and with each show we grow firmer in our resolve to stand up for what is right,” added K’noup Tomopoulos, singer of the band VI·ZA.
This year, proceeds from the concert will be donated to two needy organizational projects. The Armenian Youth Federation’s Youth Corps 6-week program provides a memorable and productive opportunity for youth to establish and strengthen ties with the homeland, consisting of 4 weeks of volunteer work and 2 weeks of touring. Beginning in 1994, volunteers first came to NKR to help rebuild war-torn villages after the cease-fire. In 2008, the AYF opened a summer camp in Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city, and continued to empower Diaspora Armenians with more direct roles in nation-building. This is a chance for some to make a direct impact on the lives of Gyumri’s most impoverished children and families. More information is available at ayfyouthcorps.org/program.
The Orran Charity provides vital support and assistance to needy Armenian children in Yerevan. Established in 2000, Orran which means “haven” in Armenian, works to decrease the disparity between the needs of at-risk groups and the availability of essential services. Orran provides food services, academic assistance, cultural enrichment opportunities and medical, psychological and social services for vulnerable communities in central Yerevan. More information is available at orran.am.
The artists and organizations involved with this special concert would like to encourage everyone in the community to participate in an event that will provide incredible talent and entertainment, but will also benefit those in need.
For more information and tickets please visit silencethelies.com