537) 'Genocide' Course for Teachers in the US

The Federation of Turkish-American Associations (FTAA) in the United States has taken the initiative to explain the true face of the so-called Armenian genocide. The project was launched in 2006 by the federation which believes the Armenian issue is not thoroughly explained to American teachers.

The FTAA, beyond the Atlantic, is exerting great efforts for the promotion of Turkey. As part of this project the federation aims at elaborating on the details of the so-called Armenian genocide, and so far 46 American teachers have been reached as part of this initiative.
In various cities across the US with a high Turkish population, the FTAA plans to establish "Turkish towns". In the days following the "Turkish Day Parade," this year, "Peace Day Parades" will be started with the participation of various other nations. The federation has also launched a campaign to send cards on special days, such as anniversaries and birthdays, to prominent US figures including President George W. Bush and pop star Madonna. It has also been reported that Turks living in the US had requested an imam be provided by the FTAA.

Establishing community associations such as the Turkish People's Union and the Cyprus Association, operating since 1956, Turks in America have increased the number of such associations to more than 40, and have managed the formation of the federation. From Turkey, Atilla Pak from Midyat in Mardin, was appointed as the FTAA president three months ago, and as head of the federation he hopes to shed light on the problems facing Turks, as well as the Armenian genocide allegations. The federation, operating in the interests of the country, continues its struggle in several other areas such as lobbying for Turkey, Pak informs. The FTAA cooperates with organizations from nine countries to stage the "Peace Day Parades," and it will be a wholly Turkish production, Pak adds.

About a thousand Turkish restaurants operate in the US, according to the FTAA's newly elected president. As part of their activities, they will assemble a box to include three CDs, one will contain the Armenian Reality, and the others will have information about Turkey and will reflect the lives of Turks residing in the US. The evil eye, as part of the unique Turkish tradition, will also be added to this box bearing the slogan, "Not Turkey, but Turkiye" together with a tulip motif. Customers at Turkish restaurants will be presented with this box, as part of the new project initiated by the FTAA.

By Ahmet Dinç, Ankara
Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com