Human rights activists gather in Ottawa for a candle light vigil commemorating Armenian genocide centennial –

Human rights activists gather in Ottawa for a candle light vigil commemorating Armenian genocide centennial –

To mark the centennial of the Armenian Genocide, human rights activists from Ottawa and across Canada gathered on Thursday, April 23 to hold a vigil in memory of the victims of all genocides that have taken place throughout the past century. Hundreds representing various organizations were in attendance starting at 7:00pm at the Canadian Tribute to Human Rights.

 Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Canada Central Executive member Mirna Foudoulian described the importance of bringing together all these organizations. “In marking the centennial of the Armenian Genocide, it was important to not only remember the 1.5 million victims of this heinous crime,” Foudoulian explained, “but we also wanted to send a strong message and stand united against all genocides with the goal of finally making ‘Never Again’ a reality.”

 In organizing the vigil, the AYF Canada partnered with the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, Student Federation of the University of Ottawa, Jewish Federation of Ottawa,Hillel Ottawa, Canadian Association of Rwandan Youth Ottawa, Humura Ottawa – Canadian Association of Rwanda Tutsi Genocide Survivors, uOttawa – Amnesty International, Carleton Student Association,AEEDCO (Association des etudiants et etudiantes en droit civil de l’Outaouais), Assyrian Chaldean Student Union, and Armenian Bar Association.

 Holocaust survivor Dr. Raoul Korngold and Rwandan Genocide survivor Willy Marcel Rangira shared their stories of survival and perseverance – outlining the gruesome realities of genocide and the transcending effects it has on future generations.

 Representatives of the AYF, Rabbi Steven from Jewish Federation of Ottawa and the President of the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa were amongst those addressing the audience.

 Several diplomats, including the Ambassador ofRussia, Armenia and a representative of The Vatican embassy,along with a representative from the Embassy of Italy were present.

 The participants held candles in memory of all those who have fallen victim to genocide throughout the past century. They also placed flowers at the human rights monument in their memory.