Unity Fest Shows Off Glendale’s Rich Cultural Base
October 14, 2007

Glendale, CA – The sixth annual Unity Fest showcased 20 performances from 16 different cultures with the help from its organizer, The City of Glendale and its sponsors; ANC-Glendale Chapter, Glendale Marketplace, Oragark, Horizon, and Asbarez.  The all day event brought together four to five thousand people, throughout the day to Verdugo Park, according to organizers. Glendale’s residents got a better glimpse at their neighbors’ culture through food, music, dances, and authentic arts and crafts.  It provided a virtual portal not only to traditions of the residents but to the many parts of the world which they come from.

“What makes Glendale different is the rich and diverse culture which the community holds so strongly. Events such as these emphasize on the strengths as we bring together not a city which is different, but a people who want to share with each other their traditions in order to come together to help build a stronger sense of community,” said Elen Asatryan the executive Director of ANC-Glendale.  “We are proud to be part of such a wonderful event and look forward to next year,” added Asatryan.

Festival goers were given the opportunity to experience a wide rangeof cultural performances from Japanese drummers, to German dancers, Polish folk dancers, presentation of a traditional Armenian wedding and a finale performance by Element Band.  Unity Fest is a city tradition which takes place annually at Verdugo Park.

"The success of Unity Fest is largely due to the community members who help plan it and the sponsors who help support it.  The City of Glendale values its relationships with our partners whose generous contributions allow the community to come together as one to celebrate our cultural heritages. On behalf of the City of Glendale I want to thank the ANC for their participation." stated Eve Rappoport, Community Services Supervisor for Arts and Culture, City of Glendale.

The Armenian National Committee - Glendale Chapter advocates for the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of the city's Armenian American community and promotes increased Armenian American civic participation at the grassroots and public policy levels. It is the voice of this vibrant community, which seeks to advance and enrich Glendale.

####