By Appo K. Jabarian
Managing Editor / Executive Publisher
21 November 2006
During a recent visit to
After the lecture, members of the audience asked questions and made comments. The following is the text of the exchange between Mr. Dink and this writer:
Jabarian: A few years ago, when (“Marmara” daily?s editor) Mr. Haddejian made a public appearance here sponsored by the Organization of Istanbul Armenians, he mentioned that the blue skies here (freedom in
Dink: Ok, ok ok. Let me pretend that I haven't heard that (the last comment).
Jabarian: And my second question… Of course we do not expect a courageous answer to that last question. So, we'll proceed to the second question. At that point the pro-Dink individuals among the audience, made much ado about this writer's strongly pointed question.
Jabarian: If we are gathered for a dialogue, let us frankly discuss. If not, let me thank you and leave. (Several audience members encouraged this writer to carry on).
Jabarian: The second portion is the clear demand by world Armenians that is comprised of two parts. No Genocide recognition is included. I am agreeable with you that we do not need
Dink: In regards of lands, the question that you are presenting about land return, you're asking the wrong person. I am already living on these lands. That is a wrong question. As for the reparations, let me tell you, that's a serious issue. But why are we waiting for the recognition of the genocide? … I think that the European Union's courts can find a solution. As for the insult that you hurled against me …
Jabarian: That was not an insult. That was a question.
Dink: As for the question about being in fear, ummm … sometimes I forget what to say. Sometimes, yes I am a human being, I have fears. I live in that country (
There is no question that individuals like Dink deserve credit for enduring the Turkish occupation of ancestral land. However, they are worthy of criticism for going out of their way to please the denialist Turkish government. On certain issues they can speak volumes with their silence.
How can one reconcile the fact of previously existing Jewish Holocaust anti-denial law in much of Europe with Dink?s and
As for the denialist Turkish government's tactics to exploit individuals like Dink to perpetuate their failed denialist state policy, one hopes that no change in said policy occurs. With its obstinate denialism, the Turkish government in reality perpetuates self-inflicted political quick-sands. The longer the Turkish political quicksand lasts, the deeper the international political isolation of
As for Hrant Dink, I want to say: ?I may disagree with you fundamentally, but I still value your passion and commitment. I just want to remind you to never underestimate the deniers.?