This was the beginning of a systematic campaign to annihilate an ethnic and religious (Christian) minority. Eventually an estimated 1.5 million Armenians were killed. And for the last 100 years, Turkey has denied the atrocities were genocide.
To mark the 100-year anniversary of the genocide, events will be held around the world.
At Humboldt State University, the Armenian Student Association will also host an event that includes a PBS Documentary, “The Armenian Genocide,” and a discussion led Maral Attallah. She is a lecturer in the Department of Critical Race, Gender & Sexuality Studies and winner of Humboldt State University’s 2013-14 Excellence in Teaching Award.
“The event is to help raise awareness of what happened because many people don’t know about it,” says Biology major Araik Sinanyan, who is Armenian and president of the club. “I think we can begin healing wounds by acknowledging the genocide honestly and openly.”
The event is funded through the Associated Students Cultural Programming Grant, which is provided for on campus events that promote social justice, educate and raise awareness of cultural diversity, equity, cultural celebrations, and traditions.
For background, archival photos, and more, go to ArmenianGenocide100.org. Read background on the genocide from the New York Times. World Atlas also has an in-depth historical timeline.
What: The Armenian Genocide Centennial Commemoration
When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2015
Where: Kate Buchanan Room
Schedule:
• 5:30 p.m.: Hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and live music
• 6 p.m. PBS Documentary, “The Armenian Genocide”
• 7 p.m.: Lecture and Q+A session by Maral Attallah.
For more information on the event or the ASA, please email HSUASA@humboldt.edu.