Armenian Genocide and women. Rethinking tragedy

The physical destruction and violence during the genocide against the Armenians is spoken too much, but stories of psychological abuse, forced conversion and marriage of women, children continue to be less popular. These issues are addressed by the speakers of discussion i “Armenian Genocide and women. double victims and heroes of defense, the announcers of tragedy ” held at Article 3″ club.

Women living in different regions of Western Armenia, have become guarantors of preserving the Armenian identity after the forced recruitment of their husbands. Migration path was full of  many trials and difficulties accompanied women and children. Often, hundreds of Armenians were forced to survive a few days locked in shelters, where there were no sanitation.

Besides the physical destruction and violence women are subjected to psychological violence that years later have left their mark on their lives one way or another. The situation was difficult for the beautiful girls who are subjected to sexual violence and targeted just for being beautiful. To avoid the torture Armenians were forced to find ways to hide the beauty.

At the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute there are photos and archival materials that speak of courage and fighting spirit of women.

Full text in Armenian