Writers risk backlash with apology for Armenian genocide

[Bozita]

Source: Guardian, UK

Writers risk backlash with apology for Armenian genocide
Robert Tait in Istanbul
The Guardian, Monday December 8 2008
Article history


Academics and writers in Turkey have risked a fierce official backlash by issuing a public apology for the alleged genocide suffered by Armenians at the hands of Ottoman forces during the first world war.

Breaking one of Turkish society's biggest taboos, the apology comes in an open letter that invites Turks to sign an online petition supporting its sentiments.

It reads: "My conscience does not accept the insensitivity showed to and the denial of the Great Catastrophe that the Ottoman Armenians were subjected to in 1915. I reject this injustice and for my share, I empathise with the feelings and pain of my Armenian brothers. I apologise to them."

The contents expose its authors - three scholars, Ahmet Insel, Baskin Oran and Cengiz Aktar, and a journalist, Ali Bayramoglu - to the wrath of the Turkish state, which has prosecuted writers, including the Nobel prize-winning novelist Orhan Pamuk, for supporting Armenian genocide claims.

Read more: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/dec/08/armenian-genocide-turkey-apology-petition

[bertman]

1. This is a noble and brave step for these Turks to take. If past history is any indicator

they will be treated harshly for their attempt to foster a reconciliation.

Perhaps this time they will be successful.

[alfredo]

2. Orhan Pamuk is worth reading. He took a stand and has suffered for it.

He's still standing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orhan_Pamuk

[BreweryYardRat]

3. Well, good for them. n/t