By Representative Muradian
April 24th is the 101st commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Our history is well documented; save for some who think that revising history somehow changes it. We should never forget April 24, 1915, through 1923, when Armenian intellectuals and community leaders were rounded up and murdered, or forced into death marches. This massacre left over 1.5 million Armenian dead from the actions of Young Turk Government members.
Genocide across the world has had a profound effect, and today we honor the Martyrs who went before us; their lives taken from them. Undoubtedly this was a horrific incident- encased in a horrid part of history.
I was raised on stories of my great uncle, a survivor of the Armenian Genocide, who witnessed firsthand these atrocities. Unspeakable crimes, committed by undeserving-to-mention individuals, and by a community and government who still overwhelmingly denies this history.
Massachusetts recognizes the commencement of this genocide yearly. However, our own U.S. Presidents, both past and present, come short in using the word Genocide. It is an absolute disgrace that maintaining relations is more important that honoring our history.
Wounds heal, while scars remain. The healing process truly begins when all involved take responsibility for their role. We will never be able to change what happened, but we can all help with continuing to educate, so history never repeats itself.
The Armenian diaspora, although heartbreaking in its impetus, has given Armenian people a new opportunity, and the chance to prove that we, and our culture, will survive and flourish.
Sincerely,
Proud Armenian-American, and State Representative, David Muradian
UPTON DAILY 