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Mr. Edward Tashji, whose
commentaries are proudly featured on TAT (see under "Comment,"
column at left), is the only Armenian I know who has the GUTS and the
INTEGRITY to PUBLICLY expose the lie of the Armenian
"Genocide." He is the exceptionally rare antithesis to the Armeni-Lemming;
after determining the truth, he devoted an essential part of his life to the
cause of principle.
Armenians, in their typical defamatory
style, have come up with all sorts of reasons to try and discredit this great
man... at the head of which must have been that he is a paid tool of the
Turks. That's the way the Armenians operate... as with the way Dennis
Papazian's university sponsored Turkish Turncoat Taner Akcam... and of course,
that would be the first thing entering their minds. Brainwashed with their own
propaganda (I'm referring to the masses, and not their professors, who
hopefully know better), how could another Armenian come out and say there was
no genocide? He must have been corrupted somehow.
Since I've embarked on this web site,
I've been poking around... as I have great respect for this man... and from
what I have been able to gather, monetary
compensation has never entered the picture. For one thing, it's just not
the way the Turks operate. If Turks were good at public relations or
propaganda, how would you explain the enormously one-sided version of
"genocide" events that is commonly and lazily accepted today?
What follows this 1989 statement put out
by the Federation of Turkish-American Societies is remarkable correspondence
from an Armeni-Lemming and his supporters.
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| Foreword
by the Federation of Turkish-American Societies |
We,
concerned American citizens who are proud of their Turkish heritage, are deeply saddened
by recent attempts, SJR 212 and HJR 417, to falsely re-write our history through
legislation. Both of these resolutions view the Turkish-Armenian issue from only one side:
the Armenian side...
We,
law-abiding. hard-working, tax-paying, god-fearing members of the Turkish-American
community, are offended by the unfortunate resolutions SJR 212 and HJR 417, which seem to
serve no purpose other than to slander our ancestors... The charge of “genocide” is
based on “selective review” of available sources, therefore, it’s bad history which
is why SJR 212 and HJR 417 are bad resolutions...
We, the
people, oppose SJR 212 and HJR 417, because both resolutions are factually misleading,
historically biased. socially explosive, politically divisive, morally wrong, and are
simply “un-American”!
How, then,
do you fight misrepresentation? We believe you fight it by Introducing facts, not fiction!
And that’s exactly what we are going to attempt to do here, in this little booklet
now...and In others like it that will follow in the future...
Please join us now for a
truly unique story: that of an Armenian-American who was born in New York In 1932 of an
Armenian mother and a Syrian Orthodox father. Both mother and father had been
eye-witnesses to the tragic events of WV/I in eastern Anatolia... See if the true
suffering and loss they experienced was not, in actual fact, shared by all the peoples of
the region... See if they taught their American
born sons “their suffering was genocide” or whether they urged their sons to “hate
the Turk”... See !f what’s espoused In SJR
212 and HJR 417 has anything to do with reality... Maybe then, and only then, the sponsors
will find it In their hearts to see things as they really were, and not as some Armenian
radicals want them to be seen...
Through the
remarkable sworn statement of ED WARD TASHJI, you will develop an insight into what It Is
that kept the Turks and Armenians in peaceful co-existence for more than six centuries...
and how “an unsuccessful uprising” was packaged and marketed by some radical leaders
In the Armenian community as “genocide by the Turkish rulers” and how some young
Armenian students were indoctrinated to “hate the Turk”.., Here Is a “primary source”
telling it like It was and still Is... We are still hopeful that truth, love, and peace
will prevail in the end?
We, the
people, in the name of truth, oppose SJR 212 and HJR 417!
Federation of Turkish-American Societies
821 United Nations Plaza
New York, N.Y 10017
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Edward Tashji's 1989 Statement
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The following commentary is presented as a sworn affidavit by the
undersigned, and Is intended to express explicitly my position on the subject of
Turkish-Armenian relations. Being of sound mind and body, fully cognizant of my
statements ,free of any coercion and/or any suggestion of any monetary recompense,
— I do hereby declare the comments in this
written material are solely mine and for which I take full responsibility. My
signature follows this declaration and It will appear at the conclusion of this
commentary.
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| ...(The
Armenians) suffered as did the Arab, the Jew, the Syrian Orthodox, the Greek, as well
as the Turkish Moslem. |
This is not intended to portray even a semblance of any historical research, nor to create
a subterfuge in the expression of my thinking and sincere feelings on a subject to which I
have devoted a lifetime of attention. Simply stated, these pages are intended to reveal my
position on a highly emotional issue based upon childhood experiences, an exposure to both
the Armenian and Turkish communities, and as a result of long years of effort. The purpose
of this life-long effort has been and by the grace of God, will continue to be two-fold:
first, to continue the bond of brotherhood between the Armenian and the Turkish peoples.
Secondly, with the continuance of the six centuries of trust and harmony, to eradicate an
infectious hatred which has manifested itself in innocent hearts and minds of succeeding
generations. To say that my task has been most difficult and potentially dangerous to my
life is not an exaggeration, as the content of this commentary will confirm. The average
American is unaware that a serious problem between these ancestral brothers even exists.
However, as a result of a blatant anti-Turkish posture on the part of our news media,
together with the acceptance by many members of Congress of one version of a tragic story,
the Turkish Nation and its God-fearing people are being accused of “genocide.” The
absurdity of the charge is equal only to the mindless “hate merchants” within the
Armenian community. So why should my pro-Turkish position be of interest to anyone outside
the Turkish Community? It should I say, it must I emphasize, because I am not Turkish nor
am I of the Moslem faith; In reality I am a Christian and an Armenian!! I was born In
Troy, New York — In 1932 — as the second son of an Armenian mother and a Syrian
Orthodox father, who had been eyewitness to the tragic events which took place In Ottoman
Turkey during the First World War. In spite of their suffering, in spite of their losses,
in our home our parents had taught us not to hate the Turkish people, In fact just the
contrary was instilled in our hearts. We learned the realities of those events about which
the West has accepted one interpretation as historical fact.
My wife’s background is similar to my own, except that both of her
parents were Armenian. Her support of my efforts and her endless patience have been my
greatest source of encouragement. Do you think, dear reader, any book, any newspaper
account, or any politician could outweigh the Influence upon me by my parents who were
there!? They had no reason to give me false information, and their greatest gift to me was
to love the traditions and culture of our peoples. Because of their wisdom, their
compassion and their humanity, I was destined to be FREE of all animosity. Based upon
THEIR comments to me, and after years of study and effort, (which cannot be described
here), I offer for your consideration the following facts which should be recognized by
every member of Congress:
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Many Armenians... do not feel
any hatred against the Turkish people but dare not make their feelings public, lest
they be castigated by church and community leaders.
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1. That the Armenian people had suffered In
Ottoman Turkey during the First World War is beyond dispute. Their suffering was
brought about as a result of the ravages of war; they suffered as did the Arab, the
Jew, the Syrian Orthodox, the Greek, as well as the Turkish Moslem. The suffering of
the Armenians was NOT as a result of a “genocide”! To this day, the other ethnic
and religious groups which had endured those terrible days, HAVE NOT referred to
being the victims of “genocide” In Turkey! But Armenian extremists have used the
term “genocide” as a way of concealing their own crimes:
2. My mother was born in Balikesir, not far
from the city of Izmir. In her town she had remembered that there were organized
Armenian political factions determined to overthrow the government, and engaged in
war activities against Turkish military forces as well as thousands of innocent
civilians. These groups were active In Turkey then, as they continue to be to this
day IN the United States. These are the names of the infamous groups: the Ramgavar,
the Huntchak, and the fanatical Dasnaksakgan, (all spelled phonetically). These
armed revolutionaries were headed by a maniacal fringe who had even attacked
Armenians who did not support them in their treachery and disloyalty against a
country where for seven centuries they had prospered and enjoyed total freedom.
3. As a child my mother had learned a song
which had been taught In Armenian school to all the children, The following Is a
translation, from the Armenian, of the only words I remember:
“Let us slaughter the Turks — Let us establish our own country...”
What would be our reaction if any cultural or religious community taught their
children to kill Americans?!
4. Many Armenians after leaving their homes
were allowed to RETURN and take possession of their homes and properties. My uncle
was one who returned to his home, and my wife’s aunt, who is still living, was
another. Her family had returned to their home in Adlyaman.
5. As a refugee my mother was taken into the
home of an Armenian family In the town of Kilis. They lived in a house which they
owned, and this was toward the end of 1915!
6. The long list of ethnic Armenians who had
attained the highest positions in the Ottoman Government is a matter of record.
7. Armenian fanaticism In Ottoman Turkey spread
to our country during those years and It continues to this very day: The Armenian
community and church in the United States is torn apart by bitter hatred within its
own family. Many Armenians, especially those who came from Turkey in recent years,
do not feel any hatred against the Turkish people but dare not make their feelings
public, lest they be castigated by church and community leaders.
In 1932, while celebrating mass on Christmas morning, the Armenian Archbishop
Tourian was assassinated by members of an opposing Armenian group. Today Armenian
terrorism has taken the lives of over sixty-five Innocent Turkish Diplomats and
family members world-wide.
8. A so-called statement purportedly made by
Adolf Huller referring to the plight of the Armenians, was, after extensive
research, proven to be FALSE by historian Robert John, who like myself is born of Armenian ancestry!
9. The following is an exact quotation from a
pamphlet printed and distributed by The Armenian Revolutionary Federation, here in
New York:
“...Its History: Struggle for National Liberation. Founded in 1890, as a
confederation of various action groups struggling for Armenian national and human
rights, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, (ARF), known as Dashnaktsoutioun,
carried on this struggle with all available means: political action, propaganda, and
at times, armed struggle..
— I direct the attention of the reader to the date: 1890! Tuenty-five years BEFORE
the Armenians began wIth their theme song: “genocide”. I’m certain you made
notice of the words: “...armed struggle...”.
10. In her book entitled, “The Armenian
Revolutionary Movement”, the author, Louise Nalbandlan, says about her book, In
part, the following: “This study covers in detail the armed struggle of the
Armenian revolutionists against the Ottoman government, beginning with the first
major disturbance in 1862 and extending to 1896...”
And they speak of “genocide”! It is the
Turk who is justified in accusing the Armenian of this heinous crime! There is more,
much much more which can refute the allegation made against Turkey.
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Once again our Congress considers the so-called
Armenian Resolution. How dare they sit in judgment of a nation whose true history is
not known by those who would accuse Turkey of “genocide”?! I say, Mr. Senator
and Mr. Congressman, examine your own history and consider the plight of the
American Indian!!
Dear reader, these are the words of my beloved
mother:
— My son, we had everything in Turkey. We owned our own homes, our farm lands,
shops, and businesses. We were free in our schools, our churches, and our press. On
religious holidays Christians and Muslims would exchange greetings, flowers, and
baskets filled with all kinds of foods. After having so much, for so long, WHY
should the Turks decide to destroy us?! WE, my son, WE were responsible beyond any
doubt, for the misfortune that befell our people! WE, the Armenians, were not loyal
to our homeland, Turkey! - Many years later, when several Turkish Naval Officers
visited our home In Queens, New York, my mother had said to them, “Welcome my
children — this is your home, welcome...” She had become their “mother” and
we their family in the United States. THIS Is humanity! THIS Is God’s wish for all
of us! THIS is the only answer if we are to give our children a world free of
hatred! THIS Is what I have found In the Turkish heart; I stand in awe of their
compassion, of their warmth, their humanity.
I am proud that I have devoted a lifetime of service in behalf of our ancestral
brothers and sisters. How we have labored, examples of our efforts, the Identity of
the long list of government officials with whom we have met, how we were able to
learn to speak Armenian and Turkish, why our home Is called an “Ottoman” home,
and much more, is for another time between two hard covers perhaps. May I offer now
my concluding statements:
Dear reader, to the Armenian I am a traitor,
one who has committed the greatest sin; to the Turk 1 have come to be known as a,
“Turk dostu” — a friend of Turks; ours Is the embrace of brotherhood. I offer
the reader my greatest success, that for which I have devoted much of my life, and
this you will read on separate pages following my commentary. Read carefully please
the writings of an Armenian student who sent me three letters. The most satisfying
achievement in my humble life is the third and final letter I received from a young
man whom I have never met. Indeed, read his words carefully an~ understand I have
not turned against my people, for to do so would be to deny my mother.
I am convinced that hate breeds more hatred,
and as we were blessed to have parents who passed on to us their message of love, so
have I spoken to all who care to listen, our history, our culture and traditions,
begin In Turkey as we have shared with her people the joys and the sorrows of that
beautiful land. Today, the Armenians living in Turkey praise us for our efforts. The
Syrian Orthodox community shares my position and our children grow free of the
cancer of hate. Let the United States Congress honor the sacred memory of ALL the
peoples that had suffered, and let not this resolution blemish the honor of a great
people. I have dedicated myself to the inseparability of the Turkish and Armenian
peoples and no power on earth can deter my resolve. In the name of reason, of
universal peace for all mankind, and in the name of the God of all peoples, I
remain, yours respectfully,
Edward Tashji
Director of Public Affairs Committee -
The Federation of Turkish American Societies, Inc.
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Holdwater: Isn't that something? Mr.
Tashji has felt so strongly about this issue, he has even volunteered his talents as a
writer to a Turkish-American organization. The key word is "volunteer" —
I've checked.
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STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NEW YORK
EDWARD TASHJI, residing at (withheld by Holdwater), being duly sworn, deposes
that he has prepared and hereby submits the attached statement containing (a) facts,
(b) extracts from published and/or uttered communications which disprove the
allegations of Armenians that their ethnic brethren suffered genocide by the
government of the Ottoman Empire in 1915-1923.
These facts are submitted to oppose
approval of resolution S .J. 212, introduced by the Honorable Robert Dole, Senator
and Republican leader of the United States Senate, at the first session of the 101st
Congress of the United States.
The said resolution seeks to designate
April 24, 1990, as the ‘National Day of Remembrance’ of the 75th anniversary of
the alleged Armenian genocide of 1915-1923 perpetrated by the government of the
Ottoman Empire.
Edward Tashji
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NEW YORK
On this twenty-first day of November in the year of 1989, there appeared before me,
a notary public duly commissioned by the State of New York, Edward Tashji, known to
me. In my presence the said Edward Tashji duly took the required oath and affixed
his signature to the foregoing instrument as well as to every page of the attached
Statement of Facts (six pages), declaring it to be an integral part of his sworn
statement.
(Withheld by Holdwater)
Notary Public. State of New York
No. (withheld by Holdwater)
Qualified in New York County
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The writings of the Armenian student who sent
the three letters is available in the following page. Mr. Tashji's declaration:
My life’s
MOST rewarding achievement — from a student I never met.
Letters of an Armenian to Edward Tashji
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