Worldwide rallies mark anniversary of 1915 Armenian genocide

Thousands around the world on Monday marked the 102 anniversary of the 1915 Armenian genocide in Turkey's Ottoman Empire with protest gatherings and marches.


Rallies from Istanbul, Beirut and Paris to Ottawa and Los Angeles -- home to one of the largest Armenian communities outside Armenia -- demanded Turkish authorities stop their denial of the genocide.

"Wherever there are Armenians, there will be this ceremony," said Aram Karadaghlian, 31, one of the Beirut event's organizers."It's a duty. They come show respect and appreciation."

Historians estimate 1.5 million Armenians were killed in massacres organized by the Ottoman Empire government of Young Turks during World War I.

But Turkey has long denied genocide took place, arguing that the killings can't be separated from the upheaval of World War I.
   [upi.com]
24/4/17