The events of 144th Anniversary of the Circassian Genocide will take place on may 21 ,2008 in Rihania, Israel. May 21 is the Day of Mourning for the Circassian people. They commemorate the 144th anniversary of the forced migration and dispersion of their grandfathers from their homeland and the imperilment of their existence.
On 21 May 1864, the Caucasian War ended with the occupation of Circassian land. The Czar approved a decision to deport and exile the entire Circassian people. More than 1.5 million Circassians were expelled; 90% of the total population at the time! Most of them perished en route being victims of disease, hunger and exhaustion. They were dispersed all over the world. Some traveled 3000 Km on foot or on ox-carts. Some roamed for 25 years before settling down. Today over 4 million Circassians live outside Homeland in over 40 countries across of the world.
May 16, 2008 at 8:12 pm
I am so glad these events are taking place to remember our ancestors…. more education needed to prevent this from happening again – not just to Circassians but to all people.