YOUTH EDUCATION PROJECT WINS BEST SHORT FILM AWARD AT NEW YORK INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL

Shown as part of the festival schedule, UNITED http://www.unitedmusicvideo.org/ received enthusiastic audience response and a standing ovation. Following the screening, a reception was held just off Times Square at the Church of Scientology of New York’s newly renovated quarters. The packed audience of United Nations diplomats, human rights advocates, religious leaders, filmmakers and artists were treated to a ten-minute “making of” video. UNITED director, Taron Lexton, is interviewed for the piece and shares some of the more colorful stories and behind–the–scenes footage from the production of UNITED.

The film includes cameo performances by Isaac Hayes (South Park), Erika Christensen (Traffic, Upside of Anger), Jenna Elfman (EdTV, Keeping the Faith), Catherine Bell (JAG) and Lynsey Bartilson (Grounded for Life).

UNITED came about when Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) asked UNITED Director, Taron Lexton to produce a new theme song and music video for YHRI.

Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) http://www.youthforhumanrights.org/, founded by Mary Shuttleworth, who serves as its Director, educates youth around the globe about human rights, thus helping them to become valuable advocates for the promotion of tolerance and peace.

YHRI works closely with the Human Rights Department of the Church of Scientology International http://www.scientology.org/world/worldeng/corp/creed.htm to bring the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights to young people through youth gatherings, essay and art contests and by the production of booklets and audio visual materials for students and teachers alike.

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