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Cleveland Armenian Festival hopes to bring attention to 'forgotten war' in their homeland

Conflicts with Azerbaijan have escalated in the past several weeks, killing hundreds on both sides

RICHMOND HEIGHTS, Ohio — At St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church in Richmond Heights, it's festival time. 

The people here are celebrating Armenian culture with laughter, food and drink. But as the kebabs grill away, thoughts drift elsewhere.

The longtime conflict between Armenia and Ajerbaijan flared up again, and it hits home. "This week turned out to be a little gloomy for the Armenian people," said Father Hratch Sargsyan, pastor at St. Gregory.

"It's important for us Armenians to get together and help our brothers and sisters overseas," added Razmig Pounardjin of the Armenian Assembly of God.

Father Sargsyan looks to rally support for his country through the incredible food and goodwill of the festival.

"We are hoping through these limited resources, we can voice our concern and ask our brothers and sisters to stand with us," he told 3News.

Festival volunteer Sergey Edilayan says he has friends fighting in the war zone. "If we can get attention of U.S. government, if we can ask our guests or anyone who hears me if they can call their government representatives, call our senators," he pleaded.

Politics and pain aside, this is a festival. It's loaded with incredible food and wonderful people. A people who endure.

"Though the times are difficult for us, we keep the spirit of hospitality and love and we are going to keep our doors open. We will keep pushing forward," Father Sargsyan pledged.

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