8 Comments
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Richard's avatar

No mention of Russia and Ukraine?

Noah Berlatsky's avatar

cant’ get everything! I think that fits though.

Bill Flarsheim's avatar

You hit my primary thoughts regarding genocide and Gaza. First, the Holocaust is unique among genocides, largely because the killing was industrialized. The efficiency of killing sets it apart. Secondly, the situation in Gaza resembles the Armenian genocide more than any other historical event I can think of. Unlike less typical events like the Holocaust or California’s eugenic sterilization, what the Turks did to the Armenians is fairly textbook for historical genocides. Israel’s actions and apparent goals in Gaza are almost a perfect match for that.

Matt Everett's avatar

Absolutely agree. I do worry that the *variety* of meanings for genocide creates confusion for people less immersed in the topic. Maybe using specific names for these subtypes( e.g. reproductive genocide, geographic genocide) when we refer to them would add clarity. The "in whole or in part" language could also use some clarification - possibly some actual math to get at what we're talking about.

Noah Berlatsky's avatar

I worry that this kind of subdivision will give people more leeway to dismiss acts of genocide, I guess.

Maier Amsden's avatar

America has yet to reckon with its own native genocide as well.

Robert Spottswood, M.A.'s avatar

Yes, I noticed how bringing up the eventual need for reparations and apologies, much delayed, tends to bring on a change in the conversation.

It stops.

David Plunk's avatar

18,000 children...and many Democratic leaders and electeds have basically had to be dragged kicking and screaming toward softening their support for Israel. The Congressman I worked for and who used to be my representative left the progressive caucus in the House because he didn't like how unsupportive it has been of a genocidal state. And Congressman Cohen is a fairly progressive person! Wtaf!?