Greek-Australians Hold Commemorative Events for Pontian Genocide

The Coordinating Committee of Pontian Assocciations in Melbourne (SEPSM) organized an event for commemorating the Pontian Greek Genocide. Greek Australian MP Jenny Mikakou once again stated her commitment  to continue her struggle for the international recognition of the Genocide as a dark historical truth.

SEPSM coordinator Spyros Korosidis welcomed the official guests and every attendee. Greek Consul General Helene Lainidou also gave a speech noting the importance of the commemorative events for the Pontian Greek Genocide and the necessity of an apology from the Turkish government for the hideous crimes against humanity committed by former regimes of the country. She, however, explained that her calling does not imply hatred against the Turkish people.

Greek Shadow Minister Jenny Mikakou and the President of the Greek Orthodox Community in Melbourne as well as Victoria Vasilis Papastergiadis also gave speeches during the event.

Mikakou underlined that the only thing Greeks ask, is that Turkey recognizes the genocide and publicly apologizes. She also reminded attendees that ex-Minister of Australia Kevin Rudd had apologized to indigenous citizens of Australia for the suffering that was brought upon them by white invading colonels.

Papastergiadis referred to stories he had heard from his grandmother, who lived during the persecutions and suffered the pain of being sent away from her homeland.