ASO Screens “Architects of Denial” and Holds Vigil at Armenian Genocide Monument

Suzanna Ekmekchyan

Staff Writer

To mark the 103rd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian Students Organization organized the showing of “Architects of Denial,” followed by a candle-light vigil in the evening of Monday, April 23. The documentary “Architects of Denial,” directed by David Lee George and released in 2017, is not only an account about the Armenian Genocide, but about Genocide denial.

The movie depicts graphic visual evidence from the Genocide and features interviews with experts speaking on the topic of what constitutes genocide, and why the Armenian Genocide should be considered a genocide.

Among the experts interviewed were Dr. Taner Akçam, former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans, and Julian Assange.

“Architects of Denial” focuses on denial and how that denial can be connected to mass atrocities of the past fifty years.

The movie was eye-opening to the members in the audience because of its graphic depictions of the Genocide and the survivor testimonies.

For many, some of the scenes were very difficult to watch due to the inhumane conditions and savagery that the Armenian people were forced to endure.

“Architects of Denial” also investigated politicians in the United States who deny that the Armenian Genocide occurred. Politicians were asked point blank about their views on the Genocide, but many simply refused

to answer.

Some of these politicians belong to the Turkey Caucus of the United States House of Representatives, and their views reflect that of Turkey with regards to the Genocide.

Audience members scoffed as interviews of these officials denying the Genocide were shown.

As the movie came to an end, there was a unanimous feeling in the audience of longing for justice.

With that feeling in mind, the ASO distributed candles to audience members, who walked to the Armenian Genocide Monument at Fresno State. Everyone formed a circle in the center of the Monument, candles in hand, and silently listened as Reverend Greg Haroutunian, Senior Pastor of First Armenian Presbyterian Church, delivered a brief homily.

He then asked that everyone observe a moment of silence to honor the lives of the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Some of the audience members began to softly sing “Der Voghormia” (Lord have Mercy), and more and more people began to join in, until the entire crowd was singing together.

It was beautiful to witness the community come together and to pray for justice.