On April 19 thousands will gather from throughout Southern California for Jewish World Watch’s 9th annual Walk to End Genocide – the largest annual anti-genocide rally in the United States.
A wide-ranging, multi-faith coalition of policymakers, religious leaders, schools, and activists will join for a day of action, walking together to highlight the power of local communities to fight genocides and mass atrocities around the world.
The event will raise funds for anti-genocide educational and advocacy efforts in the U.S. – and to support on-the ground projects that aid refugees and survivors of the conflicts in Sudan and Congo.
Hundreds of Culver City residents are embracing the cause. At the center of these efforts are students from the New LA Charter School, which is fielding a large and passionate team.
Hayley Rothbart is another young Culver City resident taking action. She has organized a team for her Girl Scout Troop, inspiring her peers to take notice and participate.
This year’s Walk coincides with the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. Both tragedies will be commemorated during the event.
“In commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and the 70th Anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, we must confront the sad truth that too many in the international community continue to stand idly by as genocides and mass atrocities plague our planet,” said Janice Kamenir-Reznik, the co-Founder and President of Jewish World Watch.
“This Walk provides an important opportunity for people of conscience across Southern California from different backgrounds and faiths to join with our elected leaders – and turn the words ‘Never Again’ into action.”
Every year the Walk to end Genocide reflects the unique diversity of Southern California. Students will walk together with survivors of past genocides.
Representatives of the Armenian, African-American, Asian and Latino communities will join with churches, synagogues, and mosques to bring attention to the plight of communities now faced with genocide and mass atrocities in Sudan and Congo.
With the goal of inspiring and educating a new generation of local anti-genocide activists, the day’s activities will include craft and activist projects, advocacy booths, food, art, music, and solar cooker demonstrations. The event will be held in collaboration with an afternoon program for Yom Hashoa – the Day of Holocaust Commemoration – at the L.A. Museum of the Holocaust.
The Walk to End Genocide will take place in Pan Pacific Park (7600 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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