Artists United For Human Rights: USS Little Rock

Artists United For Human Rights Buffalo, NY, October 4, 2009 12n - 6pm

On October 4, 2009, aboard the USS Little Rock, Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, musicians and artists combine forces to support human rights. From 12n-6pm Sunday, this festival features non-stop live music, artists and business selling their wares, and directors of task forces and organizations that support human rights focusing on education, awareness and prevention of child abuse and trafficking. This all day event is free and open to the public in direct support of Maiti Nepal (ATSEC) and Prevent Child Abuse NY (Citizens Task Force Buffalo) with a focus on The Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Coordinators of this event, musician, Noa Bursie and Susan Marie, Public Relations, were compelled to support human rights focusing on abuse and trafficking after viewing the PBS Documentary by Andrew Levine, "The Day My God Died." Bursie and Marie contacted Maiti Nepal, the main focus of the film, combining that with the main abuse prevention organization in New York State. ATSEC (Action against Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation of Children) in Nepal responded with full support, as did Prevent Child Abuse NY with Citizen's Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect (CTFCAN) (7 task forces in Buffalo.)

When asked why they wished to hold this event, Susan responded, "One day I hope to be a part of legislation passing The Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a legal document. Issues that exist globally are in my own backyard, we have to start somewhere and my city (Buffalo) is ready and willing to give." When asked of her involvement, Noa replied, "When I saw the video, the experience of these women and children resonated in me. The connection with this suffering transcends culture or nationality - language or religious beliefs, and I knew I had to do something.

The Organizations:

Prevent Child Abuse New York: Since 1980, Prevent Child Abuse New York (PCANY) has inspired parents, policy makers and community members to put the needs of kids first. Focusing on community activities and public policies that prioritize prevention right from the start, PCANY works to make sure child abuse and neglect never occur. Through statewide leadership and collaboration, PCANY ensures the healthy development of New York’s children, recognizing that physical and emotional health are essential to community well-being and economic prosperity.

“Buffalo musicians and artists are proving to be strong advocates for children,” said Christine Deyss, executive director of Prevent Child Abuse New York. “With our colleagues from the Citizen’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect, we are tremendously excited and grateful for their coming together to help prevent child abuse and victimization.”

PCANY is part of the growing movement to prevent child abuse before it occurs. This movement is based on the belief that a greater focus on prevention will decrease both the short and long-term costs to society while eliminating the pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life that victims experience throughout their lifetime. For more information, visit PCANY HERE.

Maiti Nepal, founded 1993, is a crusade to protect Nepali girls and women from domestic violence, trafficking for flesh trade, child prostitution, child labor, exploitation and torture. Maiti Nepal was formed to fight against social evils inflicted upon the female populace. It's primary focus is preventing trafficking for forced prostitution, rescuing flesh trade victims and rehabilitation. This social organization works to find justice for victimized girls and women by engaging in criminal investigation and waging legal battles against the criminals. It has highlighted the trafficking issue with its strong advocacy from the local to national and international levels.

"My colleagues and myself at ATSEC Nepal think you are doing a great job and HATS Off to your enthusiasm. You [the artists and musicians] have given an emotional and a personal touch to the cause, which I think is truly commendable.", said Sabin Gurung, from ATSEC. Ms. Anuradha Koirala, founder and director of Maiti Nepal added, ""They [women and children] are working to help their sisters and they know the horror of the victims." "Society rejects me and my girls, but they are the most important thing in my life."

Maiti's focus are practical steps such as counseling, non-formal education on health, laws, basic reading and writing, and income-generation skills with provided shelter until they are ready to stand on their feet. The sexually abused girls, abandoned children, potential victims of trafficking, destitute women, prisoner's children, returnees from Indian brothels, girls and children infected with HIV and Hepatitis B, and intercepted girls are the major target groups or beneficiaries of The Maiti Nepal Endowment Trust Fund. Visit Maiti Nepal HERE and Friends of Maiti Nepal (U.S. Affiliation) HERE.

The Artists:

Musicians: Noa Bursie, Emile Latimer, Lance Diamond, The BloodThirsty Vegans, Joni Russ, Van Taylor Project (AFE-USO), Rob Falgiano, Gruvology, Mandrill (International) , Derek McKeith (NYC), Joyce Wilson Nixon Band and more TBA.

Artists & Installations: Artfully Aware (International), Nomad Magazine Community Painting Project (local), Buffalo Indie Market (local), and Poet Tree Magazine (International.)

Join us for a full day of FREE music, artwork displayed from diverse cultures and genres, and visit the Naval and Military Park to support our Marina and two organizations that assist OUR children. October is National Prevention of Violence Month, this event is between International Day of Non-Violence (Mahatma Gandhi), and Day of Unity Against Domestic Violence.

Support your city, your state, your country, your world. Become a part of the beginning of positive global change beginning in Buffalo, New York on October 4. Work to build the world we want to live in. All you have to do is attend.

All artists are donating 20% of their sales to both organizations and the musicians are playing for free to support the cause. Help us help others.

Artists United For Human Rights © is a registered project under President Barack Obama's Serve.Gov, Million Voices Campaign and The World March for Peace and Non-Violence.

The Sponsors:

The Naval and Military Park, Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, International Justice Mission, Van Taylor Production, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Think Twice Radio, Artfully Aware, Buffalo Indie Market, Nomad Magazine, Poet Tree Magazine, Noa Bursie and Susan Marie.

# # #

For sponsorship/donations/volunteers/press:

Contact:
Susan Marie Public Relations
Noa Bursie
susan.marie.1971@gmail.com
716-783-7067
New York USA 2009