Everybody SCREAM!
Now that April has arrived and I am facing my first April in Armenia (this is a huge deal as April for me is usually spent preparing all sorts of April 24 stickers, flyers, Tshirts, protests, commemorations, speakers, programs, etc. and I turn into a volunteer machine, the setting has changed. Oh wait… nothing changes. That brings a whole lot of comfort to me. I have found something to do for April 24 in Armenia.
It’s official, Screamers is coming to Yerevan. Briefly for those who haven't heard of Screamers, it is a documentary film by Carla Garapedian about System of a Down's efforts towards Armenian Genocide recognition and the global issue of genocide.
Something I have battle internally quite a bit over the last year is not just the apathy towards our own fight for recognition of the Armenian Genocide, but the lack of knowledge itself. It’s as if they know less about their own history than high school kids in anywhere US.
When I saw Screamers, I thought this was our best chance to make them them understand the global responsibility and the fight we face every day in the US. It wasn’t to hard to convince the director to do a screening here either. So far, the few people in our staff who have seen the film were speechless and felt the urge to become Screamers themselves. I can only hope that this film answers so many questions people have posed to me over the year.
It seems like there is a lot of curiosity as to why the Diaspora focuses so much on genocide recognition and what the effects are on Armenia. My answer is often that the effects of putting the genocide issue aside can be more fatal than the struggles of high taxes on imports and exports. Few people realize the difficulties of being blockaded as I do. But I don’t want to even imagine what is possible if Armenians just drop it. I hope people understand when they see this film that it is more of a global responsibility and justice than a selfish greed for land and nostalgia that we seek.
My other hope is that out of this film, people will be inspired to scream themselves. There is an earie silence among the city about the elections coming up, about the injustices taking place. But the anger exists and is brewing. I hope this channels people to find their voice and own their words.
Time listings and more information on the screening will soon be available at www.screamersmovie.com
It’s official, Screamers is coming to Yerevan. Briefly for those who haven't heard of Screamers, it is a documentary film by Carla Garapedian about System of a Down's efforts towards Armenian Genocide recognition and the global issue of genocide.Something I have battle internally quite a bit over the last year is not just the apathy towards our own fight for recognition of the Armenian Genocide, but the lack of knowledge itself. It’s as if they know less about their own history than high school kids in anywhere US.
When I saw Screamers, I thought this was our best chance to make them them understand the global responsibility and the fight we face every day in the US. It wasn’t to hard to convince the director to do a screening here either. So far, the few people in our staff who have seen the film were speechless and felt the urge to become Screamers themselves. I can only hope that this film answers so many questions people have posed to me over the year.
It seems like there is a lot of curiosity as to why the Diaspora focuses so much on genocide recognition and what the effects are on Armenia. My answer is often that the effects of putting the genocide issue aside can be more fatal than the struggles of high taxes on imports and exports. Few people realize the difficulties of being blockaded as I do. But I don’t want to even imagine what is possible if Armenians just drop it. I hope people understand when they see this film that it is more of a global responsibility and justice than a selfish greed for land and nostalgia that we seek.
My other hope is that out of this film, people will be inspired to scream themselves. There is an earie silence among the city about the elections coming up, about the injustices taking place. But the anger exists and is brewing. I hope this channels people to find their voice and own their words.
Time listings and more information on the screening will soon be available at www.screamersmovie.com
posted by Arsineh at 4:04 PM
17 Comments:
and here we have it folks...Arsineh's version of us and them. Arsineh, who's the THEM you keep referring to?
I think the problem is that you're trying to communicate to people with a brand of American activist mentality that simply does not exist in that part of the world. And that's not just Armenia but most of Europe.
Of course I fully support genocide recognition as every Hye does, but I think support and activism are 2 different things.
You can support a cause in a more classy, discreet way. In all sorts of ways. Silent participation, financial support, etc..
Americans are famous throughout the world for doing all sorts of socially annoying things... activism is one of them.
I'm not American, and I'm not Hayastantsi, but my Hayastantsi cousins and friends often complain to me that (we) Western Armenians focus too much on the genocide, and not enough on helping develop Armenia. And I TOTALLY agree.
I'm not saying to drop genocide recognition, not at all!
But when 2 Armenians meet anywhere in the world, the conversation should be (for e.g.) how cool Yerevan is, and how much more cool it's going to become in the next few years, not "akh! what happened to us, how tragic! The world needs to know now!"
Many Yerevantsis often have a sort of 'dolce vita' attitude towards life, you know: cafes, perfermances, cultural events.
That's the right attitude. I really hope that mindset doesn't change.
Arsineh, the recognition of Genocide is a cause for self-preservation for the Diaspora Armenians. The Armenians in Armenia have other concerns for self preservation - roof over their heads, the defense of the borders against the enemies, the development of the economy, etc. The recognition of Genocide is not as burning of an issue for an Armenian citizen as it is for an Armenian living abroad.
In contrast to kevork's note, I am not against the American style activism.
I saw this documentary in Glendale. Very well done but too long. And yes, let's focus on Armenia.
Kevork,
It is clear that you are not an Armenian(Hayastantsi) not American. That explains your words and thoughts. If you had a grand-grandmother or somebody whom Turkes raped or did all kind of veriety things you surly whould have differnt approach. So I can't blame you for not understanding call for justice. Who said that one can kill 1.5 people,children and get away with that. Why can't we do that to them or so forth.
So please don't judje something you don't feel or understand.
Bela
I'd just like to point out that we can chew bubble gum and walk at the same time. In other words, we can support Armenia and pursue genocide recognition at the same time.
And although I am (obviously) 100% for supporting Armenia, it's been independent for over 15 years now. It's time that Armenians in Armenia cleaned up their corrupt government, so that those in the Diaspora who are hesitant to help for that reason, no longer have an excuse to keep their distance/assistance away... which I can't blame a person for. This is not something the Diaspora can do for Armenia.
The people who question me most about why we focus so much on the genocide in the Diaspora is Diasporans themselves, living in Armenia. The "them" I speak of is generally people who don't grasp the issue and associate it with the effects it causes... this is often Non-Armenians completely. And no, my answer is not for everyone to pick up pitchforks and start protesting like a bunch of hooligans, quite the contrary.
The "activism" in this film has proven to be some of the most effective in the US, and the main reason Turkey has not completely gotten away with genocide. Armenians are known for their credibility and power on Capitol Hill because of their ability to mobilize and their understanding of the system. This film shows why. It's not just the effort of one millionaire donating money for someone to go lobby congress on his single opinion. It's millions of people in the US, and millions of people around the world who come together with one voice and know how to direct it... and the money, let's not be naive. It's not just Armenian voices either. We've joined forces with so many other groups fighting for an end to genocide as well, and that's the element that people don't see here. I don't blame them, but I would like them to understand it.
It's not usually the people actually struggling to make ends meet who have this opinion towards the Diaspora. My relatives in Armenia are farmers and fight hard to survive. Think of who it effects directly. Why does the genocide issue have a negative affect on people? The blockade (businesses)? Lack of aid to the country (the salaries it pays)? I'm also affected by this as I'm a business owner. I want Armenia to simply do better as well, that's why I moved here, but not at the expense of justice. There is more risk living silently next to an unpunished state that commited genocide against us and spends millions of dollars every year to hide it. There's also risk at sitting by idly watching genocides take place around the world and doing nothing... something that I wouldn't expect at all to be a concern of people here while they are trying to get their lives together. But the Diaspora can... and should.
As for talking about the genocide issue whenever two Armenians meet, I also talk about the Iraq war quite a bit when I see Americans, or the upcoming elections in the US... it's of interest to me. I also talk about the elections here, these days MUCH more than anything else. I also talk about the things I'd like to do to make life better in Armenia, and all the unappreciated local artists in Armenia who deserve recognition. I also work directly with them to PR them to the world. Your picture of me is a perfect example of someone needing to be educated before passing judgement.
And that's all I want, is for people to learn about what it is before they judge it. I don't expect anything from anyone. And again, there are plenty of people here looking for a way to direct their anger, and perhaps this film will give them ideas of OTHER things they can do... like fighting for their own rights instead of waiting for someone to hand it to them.
And finally, anyone who says genocide is the identity of the Diaspora knows very little about the Diaspora. People living in Armenia have their own country to not just maintain their culture, but cultivate it. The Diasporans drive hours out of their way to get to Armenian school on Sundays to learn to read and write, and they often do. I did, and it's the only reason I can communicate with people in Armenia.
Bela,
According to this statement:
******
So I can't blame you for not understanding call for justice. Who said that one can kill 1.5 people,children and get away with that. Why can't we do that to them or so forth.
So please don't judje something you don't feel or understand.
*******
You need to go back and read my post. Especially the part where I CLEARLY stated: "I'm not saying to drop genocide recognition, not at all!"
I agree with Raffi's bubble gum analogy.
And if you must know, my grandmother's entire family moved out of Constantinople (the town of Bardezag more specifically) because her brother disappeared in the middle of the night. He was rounded up by Turkish authorities and never seen from again. Sound familiar? A lot of people have these stories.
But I think that's pretty sad... that you throw in a grandmother story and suck me into a pissing contest on who's grandparents suffered more and who has more right to speak or judge based on what level of atrocity.
I am talking about more general things here.
My family suffered, yes. But do I become an annoying activist and wear campaign t-shirts, parade around with a loud speaker, and throw my issue into everybody's face?
No. To me that has nothing to do with supportting a cause. That's just low class.
My revenge is to enjoy life, drink coffee with beautiful cultured people at Opera, learn and use my language and culture (which Talaat Pasha and others tried to extinguish) and support genocide recognition for as long as it takes.
There are many ways to support and keep your dignity. Financial is just one of a plethora.
But I guess I wouldn't understand these things because your grandmother suffered more than mine...or wait... was it that my grandma suffered more than yours? Or was it that your dad could beat my dad up in a fight? I can't remember.
But either way, I'll refrain from putting them on the front line of my political battle.
Regards
Kevork, I respect your act of revenge as I now do the same... although it could be argued that the cafe culture in Armenia is not quite productive... but I'm no saint, I love sitting at Sharmel in the summer time.
I ask that you to please respect mine and not call me low class. Here is a definition of activism:
"The policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change."
When people in Armenia talk about how corrupt the government and how things are so wrong, this is the ultimate solution to their problem. CHANGE IT!
Taking to the streets might be low class to you, but to me, it is an act of demanding your rights. If government officials are "annoyed" by me shouting in their face all the time that they need to take a stand against genocide, they need to not be an elected official. That's how democracy works. The government works for the people. And the only way they know what the people want is when the people tell them. Activism isn't simply some oaf shouting annoying phrases in the streets. I worked for 3 years in Washington in an office on campaigns, visiting offices, communicating with the Armenian community as well as the US government to make sure the government hears the expectations of their own own citizens: recognizing the Armenian Genocide and preventing others.
If that's annoying, don't listen. But without the activists of the world, think where we would be. I'm sure Armenians would be speaking either Turkish, Russian, or Arabic only.
Arsineh,
I didn't call you low class specifically, I was referring to a particular caricature or stereotype (the stereotype activist) to illustrate a point.
I know cafe culture is unproductive, or even defeatist (i.e. "We lost the battle, so what the heck, lets just enjoy our little time left as a nation")
Regarding democracy, I think you are eluding to an ideal which doesn't exist, and here I become quite Hayastanstsi.
The government is corrupt, and I don't think I have a hope in hell of changing it, nor is it worth devoting my life for a change equivlant to a drop in the ocean.
I'm not a big player like Kocharian. I'm just a guy making a living. When I become President (maybe next lifetime) then yes of course, I will be able to influence and impose my beliefs.
For now, I'll exert my influence on the people around me in my modest sphere.
I don't live in Armenia. So when I meet people I often introduce Armenia to them. If the subject of the genocide comes up I refer to it as a given, not something to prove happened.
This is one example of support, at my level.
Think about the Zionists, they were able to achieve an entire nation state where there was none, basically using clandestine methods. They were highly organized, created networks, and garnered huge financial backing.
All the megaphones in the world could never accomplish this on the street.
And finally, I am NOT Dashnak, but what about Operation Nemesis? A certain justice was served. Again, no megaphones, or placards. Just organization, and funding, and a few guys like Soghomon Tehlirian to execute (pardon the pun) the plan.
Nemesis was not democratic in its actions, but it was definitely effective in its organization and recruitment. And imagine if we didn't have it today? What justice would we have had?
And we did it by taking matters into our own hands, not whining to uncle sam or whistle blowing or yelling out "shame! shame!".
I think it's exactly that clever methodology that the Armenians have which makes us strong. We are claimed second to the Israeli lobby in Washington because of our strategy and influence. The film demonstrates some of that. Just as an example, I recall the Greek lobby often coming to visit our office to get tips on how to strategize their advocacy efforts. That says something. I think the word whining is a bit insulting when it's the practice of democratic rights we are exercizing. As for whistle blowing, some of the biggest injustices in the US have come to an end from whistle blowing. All our methods are necessary. We also need people to treat the genocide as a given and not lay it on the table for debate as if it's not proven. As for Armenia, never give up hope, especially in the worst of times. Trying may or may not get you somewhere, but not trying at all will guarantee to get you nowhere.
Yes! I agree! That that clever methodology is what separates us from many nations.
It is also historically what makes us get ahead in most regions and societies and what causes certain Asian Mongolian neighbours with a violent heritage (who won't named) to get jealous and take our resources by force.
As for the Greek lobby, come on...the Greeks ;-). Of all people, you had to use the Greeks as an example--a more unorganized nation does not exist! (Maybe the southern Italians). Ok I'm kidding because in addition to being Armenian, I am also Greek.
But all things considered, Greece disappoints me in many ways, and one of those things is that it seems to have zero foreign policy.
The whole 'Macedonia' issue is just one example.
Also Armenia seems to be accomplishing more things in 15 years than it took Greece 50 years and E.U. membership to accomplish, and that's given Greece's touristic, geographical, and European-historical advantage.
Incidently, Greeks are also the kings of unproductive cafe culture! If you think Yerevan has cafes, check out Athens.
But Greek culture does have a very big saving grace which I think Armenians (but especially Americans) could benefit from.
Greeks have a very good ability to forget about their problems and enjoy life. My region in particular (with about as bloody a history as Armenia's) I think holds the record per capita in the world for longevity. Most people often live until 95 or past 100. And overall they seem happy.
In contrast, and symbolically, our (Armenia's) very own president recently died at 55 of heart disease.
Anyway, I've tired myself of this topic, but I still don't like whistle blowers!
Regards,
Kevork
p.s. a correction. By President I meant to say P.M.
Kevork,
You repeat same thing over and over. Drink coffe, enjoy life, and help financialy.To whome are you helping????
You think you lost the battle, many of us don't. Enjoy your social life and don't look when activist pass you by. At least if some people have a desire to change something without hoping to become Kocharian( in present life) then please don't be on their way.
Not the megafone but us, people who live abroad and in Armenia need to raise awarness by talking out LOUD about genocide, and not have the attitude of a loser.
Best Regards,
Bela
Bela,
I'm not going to talk about this issue further. I said my opinion and what I had to say.
But please don't gloss over my posts and claim I said things that are not true. Just like in your first post, you didn't read my posts and continue to make false accusations about what I said in your second post.
So for the record:
1.) I said that helping financially is one of MANY WAYS you can support a cause. I just used it as an example. There are many ways.
2.) I never said I lost the battle regarding the genocide. Not in a million years! Quite the contrary, if you read my post, I said and I quote, "and support genocide recognition for as long as it takes".
(Please read carefully before you make irresponsible comments.)
3.) I said that cafe culture can be part of a defeatist or unproductive societal mentality. That was one observation. I was not talking about the genocide at all there.
4.) I don't get in any activist's way, I just find the U.S. activist culture annoying.
Perhaps it is a language issue for you? If you are having trouble understanding the English written, then I sincerely apologize. But if that is the case, then you still shouldn't make sweeping accusations if you haven't fully understood what it is I am trying to say.
Happy Easter,
Kevork
i really wish they would screen Screamers properly here in the UK!!! it was shown on BBC 4, which is a digital channel that many of us (including me! so i haven't even seen it yet!) don't get, without any publicity really or anything. i didn't even see a review of it. THAT'S ALL so far. i wish it could at least have been shown on one of the 'normal' BBC channels that EVERYONE gets.
Sorry to hear that so many people in Armenia itself don't know much about it...i suppose that may be partly because of the Soviets?
Rhiannon in London
I'll check with the director to see if there are any plans to do proper screenings in the UK. Since a significant portion of the film takes place there and the director is a former BBC News Anchor, I would think it's probably to show it there.
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