Open Letter To The Armenian Diaspora

We are representatives of various environmental groups, writing this message to Spyurq, Armenia..

The People of Armenia desperately need the voice and actions of Spyurq.  The people of Armenia have lived in fear and slavery for far too long and many have lost faith and aspiration for any betterment.

Our small group is trying to smash these stereotypes that do not allow us to breath freely, create and develop without damaging our environment.

Today, in the name of development, massive mountains are being destroyed in order to mine gold, uranium, molybdenum, copper, iron, silver and other metals—all aimed at making profit.  For the sake of so-called “development” and “creating employment”, Armenians are cutting down their virgin forests and turning our country into a barren, deserted, unpopulated piece of land.  The effects of mining can already be felt today and their impact will be multiplied for coming generations: birth defects, physical and mental disabilities, forced abortions and infertility.

Once a land for creativity, Armenia is now turning into a sterile and poisonous place, which is dangerous for humans and other species.

Together we cannot allow this to continue.  We are disturbing the balance of the Earth and killing ourselves— doing violence towards our own lives and that of our future generations.  Presently, environmentalists are considered to be “anti-governmental” forces.  Our sole purpose is to live in harmony with the rules of nature, be full-fledged citizens, and be creative and non-violent.  Many artists and intellectuals maintain silence on these issues because they do not want to appear to be in conflict with government authorities—this is unforgivable.

We hope there are people in Spyurq who are ready to fight with us to bring about change.

Please, AWAKEN the Armenian society, government, Diaspora with your inspiring voices and words.  Raise these issueswith articles, discussions, and direct actions.

Help the Armenian people stop cutting the branch on which we are all sitting.

Collect armies of thousands and wake those who are asleep.  For the sake of Life, Nature and Being.

AMEN

www.BikePlus.nor.am

Bike+ is an initiative started in 2006 by young environmental activists in Armenia.  They aim to educate the public about environmental and ecological issues through weekly bike rallies and rides.