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FROM THE ASHEN STREETS
The violent events of July 1983 are poignant for the entire Tamil population around the world. Tamils were systematically targeted with violence in Colombo and many other parts of Sri Lanka between July 24th and 29th, 1983. Tamil homes and businesses were burned, looted and destroyed. Tamil people were beaten, killed and burned alive. It was in no doubt an unforgettable and utterly dark period for Tamil people characterized by torturous beatings, extreme violence and indiscriminate killings. Fearing persecution, thousands of Tamils fled the island of Sri Lanka.
At a time when Sri Lankan Tamils were seeking refuge from the violence and political persecution of Sri Lanka’s Anti-Tamil Pogrom of July 1983, Canada opened its doors to provide a safe haven. Join these Canadians on July 23, 2010 as Canadian Tamil Congress presents “From the Ashen Streets”, commemorating the 27th anniversary of Black July. The night will feature a must see documentary by young Toronto directors, V. Aaraniyan, V. Aadhi and V. Aara. These brothers ventured to understand the lives and wounds left behind by the events of Black July through the experiences of six brave Tamil Canadians. Their stories provide a lasting impression on the resilience of the human spirit which lies within the Tamil community and a fresh perspective on the Sri Lankan narrative. It will be followed by a play from the Asylum Theatre Group which will illustrate the parallels between the haunting survivor experiences of Black July to recent events in the island of Sri Lanka.
In addition, the evening will showcase work from local artists, archived photographs and articles which poignantly chronicles the turbulent history of Sri Lanka up until the days of Black July.
Come join the Canadian Tamil Congress in remembering the unforgettable.
Please visit www.blackjuly83.com for more information
Date: July 23rd, 2010
Location: Scarborough Civic Centre
150 Borough Drive, Scarborough
Time: 6 pm – Exhibit Open
7 pm-Black July Documentary Screening
8 pm- Play by Asylum Theatre Group
