Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Talk on the 100th Year of Genocide

Aramayis Orkusyan
Staff Writer

April 24, 2015 undoubtedly marked a symbolic day for Armenians worldwide as they commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Armen-ian Genocide. Consequently, significant efforts have been put forth to raise awareness and urge international recognition of the Genocide. More than just a matter of recognition, the Armenian Genocide is a question of morality and human rights that affects not only Armenians, but all people. The importance of recognizing and contending with past genocides, however, should not be overlooked. Examining the past and understanding the injustices inflicted on such a large number of people is a necessary component for ensuring the end of such atrocities.

One of the most important tools for bringing about recognition of the Genocide is to actively continue speaking of these atrocities. The Central Valley has been fortunate to be home to California State University, Fresno, which has continuously encouraged the open exchange of ideas and information, and on many occasions, the discussion of the Armenian Genocide.
Most recent of these was a talk by Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Fresno State titled “The 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.”

OLLI offers opportunities for adults age 50 and up to continue learning through general lecture sessions and short courses. A large crowd filled the Fresno State Satellite Student Union on Monday, April 13, the majority of whom were non-Armenians, to hear Professor Der Mugrdechian speak about the Armenian Genocide.

Professor Der Mugrdechian, who is not a first time lecturer at the OLLI, discussed five dimensions of the Armenian Genocide, important historical aspects of the Genocide, and its legacy and impact on succeeding generations.

Commenting on the decision to invite Professor Der Mugrdechian to teach about the Armenian Genocide, Jill Wagner, the executive director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, remarked “OLLI is dedicated to educating the community about current events, particularly those pertaining to Fresno State. The Genocide was an important event in Armenian history, as well as for Fresno, and we want more people to learn about it and the Memorial [being built on the Fresno State campus].”

Other attendees demonstrated their interest by asking insightful questions after the lecture to attain a deeper understanding of the tragic event in history.