Australian Capital Territory legislator Caitlin Tough marked the 111th anniversary of the genocide of the Assyrian, Armenian, and Greek peoples in her speech at the ACT Legislative Assembly.
In her brief parliamentary address, Tough outlined the Ottoman Empire’s policies targeting Assyrian, Armenian, and Greek populations, and referred to the mass killings and deportations as one of the most tragic chapters of the twentieth century.
She also emphasised Australia’s humanitarian response during and after the First World War, noting that Australian prisoners of war held by the Ottoman Empire — particularly during the Gallipoli campaign — were among the earliest international witnesses to report on widespread atrocities and forced removals that resulted in the deaths of more than two million people.
Tough highlighted the support provided by Australians on the home front, including fundraising efforts, the provision of aid supplies, and assistance for relief programs throughout the Middle East, such as the creation of orphanages for survivors.
She also voiced support for a petition currently before the ACT Legislative Assembly calling on the Territory Government to include the events of the 1915 genocides in the school curriculum, noting that several Australian states already recognise them, and commended community backing for the initiative.
Source: SyriacPress
