news System of a Down's Serj Tankian Says Turkish Intelligence Tracked Him for Activism

[Music Info]

Serj Tankian, frontman for System of a Down, revealed his political activism once made him a target for Turkish intelligence. Known for speaking out on social justice, human rights, and advocating for the recognition of the Armenian genocide, Tankian’s activism drew unwanted attention from Turkish authorities after protesting in 2005.

Appearing on the show Mythical Kitchen, Tankian shared how he protested outside then-Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert’s office after Hastert blocked a bill recognizing the Armenian genocide. Soon after, Tankian learned Turkish intelligence was tracking him.

"I was scared as s***," Tankian said, recalling how his security team found out through FBI connections that he was being monitored.

Tankian also discussed how politics sometimes complicates life as a musician. He noted that the stress of security concerns often followed him on stage, fueling his performances with rage and adrenaline. "You're just like, if something's going to get me, I’m going to run around. I was going left and right, like a ping-pong," he explained.

Tankian has never backed down from speaking his truth, despite disagreements with his bandmate and brother-in-law, John Dolmayan. "I can’t imagine myself ever saying something I don’t believe in," he said, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, even when it’s difficult.

Newsweek reached out to Turkey’s Ministry of Defense for comment, but they have yet to respond.

Source: https://www.newsweek.com/system-down-serj-tankian-turkey-armenia-genocide-mythical-kitchen-1966156

 

[Ashake]

I think Serj Tankian stood up for what's right. He is just trying to bring to the awareness of the people about a very sad event in history. Even though it was scary, he kept speaking out.

 

[Harsh World]

I think Serj Tankian stood up for what's right. He is just trying to bring to the awareness of the people about a very sad event in history.

One that got little recognition until 2021.

On April 24, 2021, President Joe Biden officially recognized the Armenian genocide.

And is relatively unknown about today.

He had reason to be afraid. But, I think the release of the recent double-track single Protect the Land / Genocidal Humanoidz (2020) says that he's no longer scared though.

The lyrics Serj Tankian puts out under his own name, now that System of a Down is no longer a formal band, are just as powerful, and continue to spread the message to whoever will listen.

 

[ActionAce]

Serj Tankian uses his music to make a big difference and I cherished that a lot. It's takea courage to do that. He is helping people understand some important issues. I'm very sure that he'll inspire.a lot of people to stand up for what is right.