The ceremony began with opening remarks and a prayer by Reverend Vazken Atmajian and Reverend Gomidas Torosian, in memory of the 1.5 million saints martyred during the genocide. Following the prayer, Mr. Vahan Mehrabian, Eastern Armenian teacher, provided students with an inspirational synopsis about the Hromkla region and how it has tied into Armenian History. He encouraged students to always connect to their history and culture and Remember and Demand Justice for the victims of the Genocide, as well as reparation for the lands wrongfully taken by the Turks.
The ceremony was followed by a poem about Tree Planting by 8th grade Western Armenian students (“Ask Dzar Dungelou Artiv”) and the important meaning behind such a symbolic gesture. Next, club officers planted a tree, which was sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. George and Shogher Chorbajian, after a blessing by the Priests. Following, the planting ceremony, all students gathered around the Dzizernagapert mural, to participate in a candle light vigil honoring the saints.
7th & 8th grade students will be Marching for Justice on April 24th.
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