Teachers will introduce the history of the Armenian Genocide to thousands of diverse students around the U.S.

From June 27-July 1, 2007, 33 educators from around the nation and Canada attended Facing History and Ourselves' seminar, Crimes Against Humanity and Civilization: The Genocide of the Armenians at Antioch University. They left armed with strategies and resources to teach their students the history of the Armenian Genocide and the lessons it has for today.

The teachers were from a mix of public and independent schools and included social studies and language arts teachers, high school and middle school teachers, those who knew little, some who knew a great deal, and others for whom this history is painfully familiar as they are descendants of genocide survivors. Facing History's work around the Armenian Genocide has introduced the history and its relevance to students and teachers beyond the Armenian community.

"The greatest impact [on me] has been how many non-Armenian people from around the nation are open to learning about the often tragic history of my heritage. It has made me as an Armenian American more hopeful for the future of our nationality's survival and psychological well-being. I'm proud to say that I have participated in a meaningful seminar such as this one," said Jacqueline Marashlian, who teaches 8th grade English at Toll Middle School in Glendale Unified School District.

Drawing upon Facing History's resource book, Crimes Against Humanity and Civilization: The Genocide of the Armenians, and presentations by eminent scholars Richard Hovannisian, A.E.F.Chair in Modern Armenian History, UCLA and Taner Akcam of the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, University of Minnesota, and author of A Shameful Act: The Armenian Genocide and the Question of Turkish Responsibility, the seminar focused on the steps that led to the genocide during WWI and the dilemmas faced by the international community in the wake of massive human rights violations.

Participants also considered subsequent issues of denial and how this event was a template for future genocides. Additionally, they had the opportunity to hear Tzivia Schwartz-Getzug, Executive Director of Jewish World Watch discuss the current situation in Darfur and what her organization is doing to support refugees and advocate for an end to the violence. Teachers left energized with a personal commitment to teach their students about the Armenian Genocide and its universal lessons.

"I didn't realize that so many people were committed to this type of history or pedagogy. I am better equipped to help my students be responsible local and global citizens as a result of this seminar," summarized Melinda P. from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.