Hrant Dink Inspiring

International Hrant Dink Awards Ceremony, held in dedication to Hrant Dink -a journalist who was assasinated on 19 January 2007 because of his Armenian identity-, was opened with “Inspirations” film in which the LGBT organization Pink Armenia was also screened.

 

The Award was presented for the 4th time on September 15, Hrant Dink’s birhtday, at Istanbul Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall. The award was given to İsmail Beşikçi from Turkey and to Alexander Cherkasov, the director of the International Memorial Society from Russia.

 

Before the awards presentation, Inspirations, a group of people and institutions from Turkey and from all corners of the world who multiply hope for the future with the steps they take, were saluted with a film acknowledging their achievements. In this film, Pink Armenia and LISTAG Family Group were also shown.

 

Beşikçi received the award for his tireless efforts towards a social and political solution of the Kurdish Issue, refusing to be silenced despite being subjected to threats and maltreatment throughout his life.

 

 

Mamikon Hovsepyan, the spokesperson of Pink Armenia, an organization also a member of the Regional Network Against Homophobia, expressed their feelings on the film screening and the recognition of the organization’s work in Armenia:

 

“Hrant Dink Foundation’s work is very important for Armenians in Armenia and in diaspora. It builds a bridge between East and West, between old and new era of Armenian history. The Foundation is very supportive and encourages our work in Armenia. They inspire all Armenians with their work, and this year they including PINK Armenia among their Inspirations in 2012 which was very exciting for us. 

 

I read the email that I received from thee Foundation on September 14, the day when I was celebrating my 30th birthday. That was the best news that I could receive on that day. My colleagues and I want to thank Hrant Dink Foundation for being with us, for supporting our work and inspiring us.”