Genocide, who decides?

Genocide is a hot topic, one that ignites passionate discussion and disagreement. In of itself, genocide has to be the most horrific act of violence in human existence. Wikipedia defines genocide as “the deliberate and systematic destruction, in whole or in part, of an ethnic, racial, religious, or national group.” What is of great debate lies in a number, how many deaths constitute genocide, how much of the “part” signifies genocide?

The topic encompasses legalities and definitions that would make it difficult for anyone to declare such acts of violence as “genocide.” It seems to be pretty straight forward to me, any attempt to wipe out, destroy, or kill a group of human beings is genocide. When did it become the sole right of governments and lawmakers to determine if an act of genocide has occurred? I get it, there has to be some oversight, but to what extent do we allow neglect of acknowledgement of genocide? When did politics become more important than allowing a group of people healing and growth from such a catastrophic event? By not allowing acknowledgement we are perpetuating more pain, resentment, and harm onto those who have already been through enough.

I acknowledge the plight of those who have fought for their existence on this planet. I shed tears for my brothers and sisters around the world who have no choice but to face brutality and execution. From my Native American ancestors to my Armenia brothers and sisters, no human being should live in this kind of fear and desperation. The groups of people who have either lived through genocide or ancestors have, deserve our acknowledgement. It might not make some groups that disagree happy, but what is most important is helping in the healing process of our fellow brothers and sisters who have faced an unimaginable plight.

The following list of genocide is from the 20th and 21st century and is in no way a comprehensive list, if I have forgotten any group, my deepest apologies. The intent of the list is to give everyone an idea of how prominent acts of genocide are in an age where the human race has made great advancements.

Herero Genocide
Korea Genocide
Holodomor
Armenian Genocide
Holocaust
Rwandan Genocide
Cambodian Genocide
Genocide in Liberia
Karabakh Genocide
Bosnian Genocide
Genocide in Sudan
Genocide in Darfur
Genocide in Sri Lanka

We have a duty to bring to light what fellow human beings are facing. Check out www.genocidewatch.org.

Photo from the Genocide Intervention Network.