Rhode Island Senate Bill S1027

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/23
• Passed: 5/18/23

Caption

Senate Resolution Proclaiming May 19th Of 2023 As "greek Pontian Genocide Remembrance Day" In The State Of Rhode Island

Impact

By formally recognizing May 19th as a day of remembrance, S1027 reinforces the value of historical memory within state laws and showcases Rhode Island's commitment to honoring the diverse ethnic communities that contribute to its culture. This resolution also encourages discussions about genocide and the importance of acknowledging such events to prevent future atrocities, promoting education and awareness around issues of human rights and historical justice.

Summary

Senate Bill S1027 is a resolution that proclaims May 19th of 2023 as 'Greek Pontian Genocide Remembrance Day' in the State of Rhode Island. Introduced by Senator Leonidas P. Raptakis, the bill serves to commemorate the tragic events experienced by the Pontic Greeks from 1914 to 1922, during which systematic extermination, including the killing of approximately 353,000 individuals, was carried out by the Ottoman Turks. The resolution seeks to honor the victims of this genocide and to educate the public about this often-overlooked aspect of history.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding S1027 appears largely supportive among legislative members and the Greek-American community, as it promotes recognition of a shared history that may not receive adequate attention in mainstream narratives. However, the resolution may face contention from those who argue against prioritizing specific historical events over others, reflecting a broader debate on how societies commemorate historical grievances. Nonetheless, the general sentiment is one of solidarity and respect towards the memory of those who suffered during the genocide.

Contention

Notable points of contention around the resolution may arise from discussions regarding the framing of the genocide and how it relates to current inter-ethnic relations. While the bill focuses on remembrance and education, some skeptics might question whether designating specific remembrance days could lead to divisions or neglect other significant historical events. Nevertheless, the resolution is framed as a way to enrich the historical narrative and support continued dialogue about past injustices, which may otherwise be forgotten.