Just Peace Movie Night: Aurora’s Sunrise
On Wednesday 6 December, The Hague Humanity Hub is organising a Just Peace Movie Night in collaboration with Movies that Matter as part of Human Rights Day. After the screening of Aurora’s Sunrise, there will be a discussion with the director and experts exploring the intersection of genocide and human rights.
About the film
In 1919, the silent movie Auctions of Souls premiered in New York, about a teenage girl who survived the Armenian genocide. It starred Aurora Mardiganian, on whose story the film was based. Auctions of Souls became a big success, but not long afterward, all copies of the film disappeared. Mardiganian, who shortly was a household name in the US, retired into anonymity. Not long after her death in 1994, 18 minutes of the silent movie resurfaced. Aurora’s Sunrise by Inna Sahakyan tells Mardiganian’s incredible story. It is an epic tale of having to flee the genocide and all the hardships and violence – but also kindness and selflessness – that Aurora encountered on her way. A brave film about a subject – the Armenian genocide – that still takes a lot of courage to put the spotlight on.
Why Aurora’s Sunrise?
In light of the Human Rights Day on December 10, at this event, we aim to shed light on the human rights issues in Armenia and the significance of advocating for them through storytelling and media.
Aurora’s Sunrise unveils the historical injustice of the Armenian Genocide, highlighting the systematic violations of the right to life and the targeting of cultural and religious identities. The film prompts reflection on the ongoing denial of the genocide and the importance of accountability. Aurora’s Sunrise is a film that serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to prevent and address genocidal acts. With this screening, we aim to educate and raise awareness, on the intersection between genocide and human rights, the importance of early intervention, and the value of remembrance.
Programme
18:00 – Doors open and registration and drinks available to purchase at Hub Café
18:30 – Welcome and introduction by moderator
18:35 – Film Screening: Aurora’s Sunrise
19:35 – Short break
19:45 – Moderated discussion and Q&A with audience and experts
20:45 – Networking and drinks available to purchase at Hub Café
21:30 – Event ends