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YOUTH EDUCATION PROJECT WINS BEST SHORT FILM AWARD AT NEW YORK INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL
Filming youth during the production of a Youth for Human Rights project in Taiwan...
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and India.
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Taron Lexton, the young cameraman and producer of the award-winning UNITED music video
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30 May 2005 — “UNITED”, an emotionally charged music video with a strong human rights message landed the coveted Grand Jury prize for best short film at the New York
Independent Film Festival held in April 2005.
Shown on April 28 as part of the festival schedule, UNITED 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), 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 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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