Acknowledging And Urging Turkey And Iraq To Recognize The Genocide Committed Against Assyrians Between 1915-1933.
The passage of SCR75 would send a strong message of solidarity with the Assyrian community and could influence international relations, particularly regarding how Turkey and Iraq address their historical narratives. Acknowledging the genocide could enhance diplomatic discussions around human rights and historical accountability, promoting a more accurate reckoning with the past. Additionally, the resolution serves to educate the public and policymakers about the significance of acknowledging and commemorating genocidal acts to combat the culture of denial often surrounding such events.
SCR75 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that acknowledges the genocide committed against Assyrians between 1915 and 1933 and urges Turkey and Iraq to formally recognize this event. This year marks the 109th anniversary of the Syriac Genocide, which resulted in the deaths of a significant portion of the Assyrian population during the early 20th century due to the actions of the Ottoman Turks and later, the nascent Iraqi army. The resolution emphasizes the importance of state acknowledgment of such historical acts of violence to prevent future genocides and to facilitate scholarly access to historical records.
Notably, the resolution points out the lack of recognition by the governments of Turkey and Iraq regarding the genocide against Assyrians, which has been largely denied historically. This may lead to tension in diplomatic relations, especially with Turkish and Iraqi officials who may view such resolutions as politically charged. Advocates of historical recognition assert that it is essential for justice and healing within affected communities, while opponents may argue that it could exacerbate ethnic and political tensions in the region.