Lowell Observes ANC Genocide Recognition

Kanayan outlined visits made to six area high schools in addressing student populations on the Armenian genocide, many of which have received only a smattering of knowledge.

As chairman of the Armenian Genocide Education Committee of Merrimack Valley, members have made vast inroads toward adopting a curriculum under the banner of Facing History and Ourselves. In most every case, schools have requested a follow-up panel discussion with Armenia joined by a Holocaust survivor as well as Cambodia and Rwanda. Those plans are in the works.
“By educating our students today, hopefully they will be able to set policies and structure to deal with countries like Turkey that have committed genocide,” he added. “Perhaps someday, Turkey will be transformed and restore the many churches, heritage and patrimony of Armenians who lived on their historic lands.”

The commemoration featured young speakers, politicians, a downtown march led by the color guard from the Lowell Armenian- American Veterans, proclamation and flag-raising ceremony.

Members of the Sam Manoian Post led an entourage of 100 participants, including children holding banners from the various churches. All sectors of community life were represented.

Mayor James Milinazzo presented a proclamation, reflecting upon the immigrants of his city who fled persecution and settled in the district, enriching the American heritage with their culture, education, arts and sciences.

“The Armenian community became an asset to the growth of the Lowell economic and social fabric through hard work and strong family values,” he told the crowd. “Their devotion to a free society, healthy religious values and strong civic pride makes them a people to be admired.”