Reaching Beyond Ruins

The second largest city in Armenia is in desperate need of aid. Almost 24 years ago Gyumri was struck by an earthquake of 7.1 magnitude killing upwards of 25,000 people and leaving thousands of families devastated and homeless. Over the years, dozens of communities, organizations and nations have given the Gyumri populace aid and funds, however, many parts of Gyumri still lie in ruins. This is in part due to the lack of local government support. Gyumri’s mayor and many of his oligarch counterparts have corrupted the region of Spitak, and have left the people unable to rebuild their lives.

The Orange County Ashod Yergat AYF chapter has taken up the task of raising awareness as well as collecting donations to rebuild and revive Gyumri. Last year the Orange County AYF held its first Gyumri event called Reaching Beyond Ruins; An exhibit of photos and videos of Gyumri, past and present.

Building upon the success of last year, on June 9th the OC Ashod Yergat AYF chapter will host its second annual Gyumri event, giving the public a chance to see the destruction more than two decades after the earthquake. The event will take place at The Coffee Table Lounge in Eagle Rock from 8pm to 12am. There will be music and an open bar, as well as an interactive display of photography and information documenting the effects of the 1988 earthquake on the current social and political situation in Gyumri. Admission is free for all, however the venue is 21+ after 10pm. We look forward to seeing everybody there supporting our brothers and sisters in Gyumri.

For more information regarding the event click here.