|
news
CSULB
gives Genocide its due
By Michelle Siazon
On-line Forty-Niner
April 24 marks
the memorial day of the Armenian Genocide from 1880-1915 in
which 1.5 million Armenians were massacred by Turkish forces.
In remembrance of the lives lost, a group of students assembled
by Cal State Long Beach senior Lisa Narinian as well as members
of the Armenian Student Alliance will be distributing flyers
with information about the genocide and buttons that read
"1.5 million."
"As an Armenian, it is my duty to bring forth the hidden
history of our people," Narinian said. "At my previous
college, I was surrounded by Armenians and every April 24
there were information booths and different events like protests
and marches for us to take part in. It is a passionate drive
that encourages me to do the same on this campus."
On April 24, 1915, Turkish soldiers moved the Armenians out
of their homes by knocking door to door and convincing them
that the war would be fought on their land and an evacuation
was in order. The Armenians were tricked into thinking the
Turkish soldiers were fighting for their safety and naively
complied, but were then brought into seclusion where soldiers
began to slaughter them, according to the Web site genocide1915.info.
"History can't be changed by denial or ignorance. For
80 years my grandfather spoke of the great massacre with tears
in his eyes," said junior Tenny Grigorian. "His
memories of himself as a 7-year-old boy trying to escape from
the genocide is enough for me to try to help people be more
aware of what is sadly being hidden. I know the truth will
prevail."
Many people are unaware of this tragic event for a number
of reasons. Armenian leaders sent letters to European governments
in an attempt to be saved from massacre, but European countries
turned their back on the genocide that took place in front
of their eyes.
"We should not mimic our government's silence, the 87
years of denial," Narinian said. "It's important
that we explain the history of this atrocious crime that is
yet to be acknowledged by our country."
The Armenian Student Alliance will participate in the United
Armenian Students march in Little Armenia, Hollywood and will
proceed to a protest in front of the Turkish Embassy said
president of the Armenian Student Alliance Irma Hamayan. In
addition, they will post informational facts in the large
display case near the Student Union and The Nugget.
|
|
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Search our site
DEPARTMENT
OF
JOURNALISM
ONLINE 49ER
DEPARTMENTS
ADVERTISING
ADMINISTRATION
DAILY
49ER ALUMNI
SUBSCRIPTION
SERVICE
GIVE
FEEDBACK
|
