On the solemn occasion of the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian Youth Federation spearheaded a powerful demonstration outside the Turkish Consulate, demanding justice and reparations from Turkey, sanctions on Azerbaijan and Turkey from the Biden administration, justice for the Armenians expelled from Artsakh just months ago, and an end to the collaborationist defeatist government in Yerevan. In a display of unity and resilience, hundreds of Armenians, spanning generations and backgrounds, converged on Wilshire Boulevard to amplify their voices.
The fervor and determination radiated through the crowd, with individuals from diverse walks of life standing shoulder to shoulder. From young children who had never set foot in Armenia to seasoned veterans of the Armenian Armed Forces, each person represented a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Armenian people.
Beyond the Armenian community, a tapestry of solidarity emerged as allies joined hands in support of the cause. Palestinians, recognizing parallels in their own struggles, lent their voices to the outcry, shedding light on the complicity of nations like Israel in aiding Azerbaijan’s aggression, drawing parallels between the plight of Artsakh and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
As chants for justice reverberated through the streets, the demonstration served as a poignant reminder of the collective strength and resilience ingrained within the Armenian identity. The demands echoed not only for acknowledgment and restitution but also for accountability on a global scale, calling for sanctions against those complicit in perpetuating injustice.
The first occupation we must fight is the one in Yerevan. Only then will be able to rectify the occupation of Artsakh and Western Armenia.
In the face of adversity, this gathering stood as a beacon of hope, reaffirming the resolve of a people determined to uphold their heritage and secure a future free from oppression. It was a moment where history converged with the present, igniting a flame of determination that will continue to burn until justice is achieved.
