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Pallone Statement in Recognition of 99th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

April 24, 2014

WASHINGTON D.C. -- Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), co-chair and founder of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, released the following statement in recognition of the 99th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide:

“Today, we commemorate the 99th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, and remember the lives of the one and a half million Armenians who were slaughtered by Ottoman Turks nearly a century ago. As we remember the victims, we pay homage to the Armenian people who, for thousands of years, have shown their perseverance and strength in the face of great challenges.

“While, the Armenian Genocide has been recognized by scholars all over the world and has been widely documented as a historical fact, we are reminded today that Turkey refuses to come to terms with its own history and recognize the atrocities as genocide. However, I will not stand idly by as the truth of the murder of one and half million Armenians is distorted.

“It is time for the United States government to do the right thing, the moral thing, and recognize the atrocities committed against the Armenian people for exactly what it was—genocide. This is long overdue, and I am as committed today, as I was when I founded the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues more than 18 years ago, to push for that formal recognition.

“I am proud that the Senate Foreign Relations Committee acted so decisively earlier this month to pass a resolution calling upon the Senate to officially recognize this crime against humanity. It is time now for the House to act on H. Res. 227, calling on the President to acknowledge the facts and ongoing consequences of the Armenian Genocide and ensure that the foreign policy of the U.S. reflects an accurate account of history.

“Armenia stands as a resilient ally of the United States and a nation dedicated to democracy and regional stability. On this somber day, we stand in support of Armenia and commemorate the bravery of those who perished in and survived the genocide.”