Armenian Youth Gather for 24 hours, Commemorating the 93rd Anniversary of Genocide

San Francisco- On April 26th, over 40 Armenian youth between the ages of 9 and 26 gathered in San Francisco for a special event organized by the AYF San Francisco “Rosdom” Chapter. The event entitled “24 Hours of Remembrance” began at 2pm and ended the following afternoon with the purpose of enlightening Bay Area youth to become active within their community. The event included a screening of “Screamers” and “Dark Forest” followed by discussions. Special guests included Armenian National Committee Western Region Executive Director Antranig Kzirian, Bay Area ANC Chairwoman Roxanne Makasdjian, as well as ARF Krisdapor Gomideh members Vatchig Sarkissian and Shahig Aghababian who discussed their experiences while participating in the Karabagh liberation struggle.

“This event was organized to give the Bay Area youth an educational experience unlike any other” said San Francisco AYF chairman Mato Senekeremian. “We went past a conventional educational to stimulate kids to become active by having interactive discussions and hearing first hand from those who have given all to the Armenian cause.” ANC Western Region Executive Director Antranig Kzirian and Bay Area ANC Chairwoman Roxanne Makasdjian talked in detail about House Resolution 106 and how the Armenian youth play a major role its future success. The evening included a candlelight vigil, where the youth sang “Hair Mer” and “Mer Hairenik.”

The evening also included a song night with the talented Khatchig Jingirian on keyboards and vocals, and Antranig Kzirian on the oud. On Sunday, the youth participated in the weekly church mass and requiem service.

Founded in 1933, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) has grown to become the largest and most influential Armenian American youth organization; with chapters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world. Inspired by our past and motivated by the needs of the future, the AYF actively strives to advance the social, political, educational and cultural awareness of all Armenian youth. For further information please visit www.AYFwest.org.