Genocide Awareness Event Aims to Illuminate the Dark Truths

Dr. Bertha Alvarez Manninen, a Philosophy professor at Arizona State University West Valley, will host a series of events from March 31 to April 4 in recognition of the 2025 Genocide Awareness Week. These activities aim to raise awareness and educate the community about ongoing issues related to genocide.

Manninen expressed her motivation for these events, stating, “The ASU campus at Tempe has commemorated Genocide Awareness Week for the last few years. This year I took it upon myself to bring some of those events to our side of the city.” She noted that her initiative was inspired by her daughter’s comments on the Holocaust, which led to a poignant conversation about the prevalence of such atrocities today.

The program includes various impactful events designed to engage attendees. On March 31, from 5-7 p.m. at CLCC Lect. 110, there will be a screening of the film “Red Hand,” followed by a panel discussion focused on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis. Notably, the event features a short film by ASU graduate Octavia Endischee, who will participate in the panel alongside family members of victims.

On April 1, from 3-5 p.m. at CLCC 246, local genocide survivors will share their stories. Participants include Marge Rich, a Holocaust survivor; Dositha Kamugisha from Rwanda; Rafi Yusuf Zaw Win representing the Rohingya; and Brianslav Vujic from Bosnia. The panel will be moderated by Sara Adams, Women’s Empowerment Coordinator at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, and will conclude with a candlelight vigil honoring genocide victims.

The final event on April 3, from 3-5 p.m. at SANDS 101, will feature a keynote address by Dr. David Livingstone Smith, a distinguished philosophy professor recognized for his work on dehumanization. His insights into the psychological and philosophical aspects of this phenomenon are expected to provoke thoughtful discussion.

Arizona State University West Valley is located at 13591 N. 47th Ave., Phoenix. For inquiries regarding the events, interested individuals may contact Manninen directly at bertha.manninen@asu.edu.