The 4th Tsakhkazard Festival in Los Angeles: a conscious mission to remain Armenian and support the homeland

Since the 44-day war, Los Angeles has been hosting the children’s festival “Tsakhkazard,” aimed at introducing diaspora children and youth to Armenian culture and strengthening their connection to the homeland. Festival co-founder Nane Avakyan appeared on Alpha News to present the initiative’s mission, noting that it was conceived to address a crisis of national identity. Remaining Armenian in the diaspora, she said, requires daily, conscious effort.

“We decided that this should be our contribution to preserving national identity. We believe that love for all things Armenian: for one’s nation and one’s own identity, must be instilled from childhood. Our goal is to cultivate in children and teenagers a sense of responsibility toward the homeland and their identity,” she said.

The fourth Tsakhkazard Festival will once again stand out for its distinctive format, bringing together art, church traditions, and education. Only Armenian classical and folk music, performed by children, will grace the stage. Dozens of pavilions will be set up in the grounds, where teenagers can engage hands-on with Armenian culture, and younger children will have the opportunity to take part in the carpet-weaving process — tying knots with their own hands.

Avakyan also touched on the relationship between Armenia and the diaspora, and on the attacks against the Church.

“The processes unfolding today cannot sever the bond that exists between Armenians. It is a centuries-old, God-given connection that cannot be broken. We have chosen to keep that bond alive through culture,” she said.