Because of the resilience of the Armenian Diaspora, residents of Glendale are perhaps more familiar with the links between dehumanizing language and genocidal violence.
We have an opportunity now to harness that resilience and knowledge to defend asylum seekers from leaders that try to cast them as our enemies.
Residents of Glendale must fight against dehumanizing language and support the fundamental humanity of people seeking a better life for themselves and their children.
Thankfully, we’re well practiced in this. The International Rescue Committee has a large office in Glendale and offers many volunteer opportunities. Similarly, many Glendalians are already active in Immigrant Families Together, and use the Immigrant Families Together-California Facebook page as a clearinghouse for opportunities to help families with immediate needs.
This April, when we reflect on the Armenian Genocide and the violence that proceeded it, is an excellent time to recommit to helping people of other nationalities who are fleeing violence.
Sara Hollar
Glendale