UCSB’s Armenian Student Association to Hold Annual Armenian Genocide Commemoration
This year’s Commemoration will highlight the progress and successes of Armenia since the Armenian Genocide until present day. By emphasizing the achievements of Armenians and significant historical movements, we aim to encourage the present generations of both Armenian and non-Armenian descent to the advocate for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, particularly the issue of human rights and genocide in general. The event will also provide information in regards to past and present genocides, such as the Holocaust, Darfur and the current atrocities in Sudan.
The Armenian Genocide of 1915 is considered the first genocide of the 20th century. The enduring denial campaign on behalf of the Turkish government promotes a continuous cycle of injustice. UCSB’s ASA has also promoted the importance of educating the college population about the political undertakings of the Turkish government by hosting “The Stain of Denial” (the second annual simultaneous silent protest which took place at the respective campuses of ASAs across the state of California) back on January 31, 2013.
The Commemoration will include a musical performance by UCSB ASA members. A recognized Armenian priest, Ter Vazken Movsesian, will be speaking about the history of the Armenian Genocide, as well as talk about his current work in Africa, promoting the importance of preventing future genocides. A UCSB alumnus, Joseph Kazazian, will be speaking on behalf of the Armenian National Committee of America Western Region (ANCA-WR).
Students, faculty, and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend the Armenian Genocide Commemoration on Thursday, April 25, 2013 at 7:00 pm at UCSB’s Life Sciences Building (Room 1001 by UCen Road and Lagoon Road). The event is free of admission. Please visit http://www.all-asa.org for more information about the Armenian Student Associations throughout California.
Contact:
Leslie Aguilar, UCSB ASA Vice President
l_e_a@umail.ucsb.edu
(818) 266-4014
