isany1listening

There have been reports circulating for the past couple of weeks on the issue of President Obama and the Armenian Genocide.  The L.A. Times recently published an article discussing how the President could waver on his position during the campaign where he once stated “The Armenian geoncide is not an allegation, a personal opinion, or a point of view, but rather a widely documented fact supported by an overwhelming body of historical evidence…America deserves a leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian genocide and responds forcefully to all genocides.  I intend to be that president.”  However, with his upcoming trip to Turkey, the declaration that Obama once promised could be in jeopardy.  Despite the uncertainty of the Administration’s next steps concerning this issue, the House of Representatives is putting forward a resolution that declares the actions committed by the Ottomans in 1915 against the Armenians to be a genocide.

It will be interesting to see how the President will react as these events begin to unfold.  While I am no expert on the subject of the Armenian genocide, I have found that there is a plethora of information readily available.  What has been most astounding to me is that there is reportedly 1.5 million people who were killed.  In fact, it is also known as the Armenian Holocaust, and from what I discern, that is a legitimate title.  What shocks me is that this is still in debate about being called a genocide.  I cannot list all of the facts here on this blog entry, and would suggest teaching a class just on this subject.  However, I encourage you to find out more information and you can start by looking on the Armenian Genocide website (www.armenian-genocide.org).

What I would like to discuss and reflect on is how historical events still play such an important role in contemporary politics.  We cannot deny that the Armenian Genocide happened.  It is fact, but what we can do now is not officially declare it a genocide because it could effect our relations with Turkey.  They are valuable allies and we need them especially in the Middle East, just as we need Israel.  But I have to wonder when we stop playing politics and start living in accordance with humanity.  What I mean is that countries need to claim responsibility for their historical actions, specifically in terms of crimes against particular groups of people based on race, ethnicity, religion and/or gender.  They cannot remain indifferent and claim non-culpability, because you become culpable the moment you deny the atrocity. 

Recognition is needed to bring peace, and begin healing.  The prime example is South Africa.  While the Truth and Reconcilliation hearings were problematic and punishment was exchanged for full disclosure, it helped people in the healing process and aided in a country to move on from the horrific events of Apartheid.  Pehaps that is what is needed for the Armeninans.  I can’t say, but I think that these issues and examples of other genocides need to be explored before making decisions based purely on politics.  All sides need to be thought through and examined.  I hope Obama can be the leader we need and be able to keep alliances while at the same time recognizing a genocide.  I hope he is willing to listen to all parties involved.  I am happy with the House for bringing this resolution to the floor.  It shows how we live in a time where humanity needs to come before politics and policy.  People are worth more than alliances for military gain.  All we can do is wait and see what will happen in the next few weeks.

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