Advocating for Assyrian Rights: Semele Massacre Recognition Attempts

In today's interconnected world, advocating for the rights and preservation of Assyrian culture is more important than ever. One organization leading the charge in this mission is the Assyrian Action Coalition. This advocacy project brings together various Assyrian American organizations with the goal of advancing the visibility, rights, and cultural heritage of Assyrians globally.

Assyrian Americans gather in front of the U.S. Capitol.

On June 6, 2023, a significant event in Washington showcased unity, coordination, and collaboration as Assyrian American organizations united to co-organize the support for the reintroduction of House Resolution 472. This resolution aims to acknowledge the 1933 Semele massacre of the Assyrians and has received bipartisan backing from Representative Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), the Democratic lead co-sponsor. For the first time, 20 Assyrian-American organizations formed a delegation to advocate for this cause, lending their collective voice to the movement. Their unified dedication to seeking justice and commemoration highlights their commitment and collaboration. This unprecedented partnership emphasizes the issue's significance and the urgent need for recognition.

The Assyrian American Organizations that participated in this historic day at the United States Capitol include: • Assyrian Action Coalition • Assyrian Aid Society of America • Assyrian American Association of Arizona • Assyrian American Association of Houston • Assyrian American Association of North Texas • Assyrian American Bar Association • Assyrian American National Federation • Assyrian Business Association • Assyrian Democratic Movement • Assyrian Foundation of America • Assyrian National Council of Illinois • Assyrian Universal Alliance • Assyrians for Justice • Attra TV • GISHRU – Bridge to Assyria • Iraqi Christian Relief Council • Mar Zaya Assyrian Organization • Restore Nineveh Now • Sons of Mesopotamia • Vote Assyrian.

House Resolution 472 emphasizes that the Semele massacre led to the brutal killing of over 3,000 unarmed Assyrian men, women, and children by the armed forces of the Iraqi Government. Furthermore, the resolution notes that more than 60 Assyrian villages were looted and destroyed during this tragic event, driven by various groups incited to eliminate the Assyrian people. The Washington event was attended not only by Assyrian-American organization delegates but also by numerous individuals and human rights organizations supporting the cause. Representatives from this coalition held meetings with several House of Representatives members, urging them to join as co-sponsors. The more co-sponsors there are, the higher the chance for significant action by the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

In an interview with the Epoch Times, Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) remarked, "I believe it is crucial for people to be aware of what the Assyrian people endured. Recognition is vital in preventing such atrocities from recurring." Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky echoed this sentiment, stating, "We must acknowledge the truth and ensure the resolution's passage." In his opening remarks, Sam Darmo, founder of Assyrians for Justice, addressed the audience, saying, "For 90 years, we have endeavored to secure worldwide recognition of this heinous crime committed against unarmed women and children."