[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 67 (Wednesday, April 25, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E857]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E857]]
          NINETY-SECOND COMMEMORATION OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 23, 2007

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, today we solemnly commemorate the 92nd 
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide where, over the course of eight 
years, from 1915 to 1923, the Ottoman Empire launched a systematic 
campaign to exterminate its Armenian community. During that time, more 
than 1.5 million Armenians suffered through mass killings, 
deportations, forced slavery and torture.
  Once the genocide ended, many survivors rose above their anguish and 
terrible experiences to rebuild their lives. Armenian communities began 
to flourish as numerous immigrants found a new home here in the United 
States, as well as in my home state of California. Even though their 
communities discovered solace and success in America, the scars of 
genocide remain deeply embedded in their history and in our conscience.
  If we are to pro actively engage the international community, we must 
realize the significance of commemorating the Armenian Genocide. 
Equipped with information and education, we can ensure that the legacy 
of the genocide endures and that atrocities such as those that befell 
the Armenian people never happen again.
  Together we can educate, commemorate, remember, and stand united in 
promoting a clear message that the United States does not condone, nor 
does it tolerate acts of genocide.
  Today we mourn the victims, pay tribute to the survivors, and stand 
together with all who are committed to promoting awareness about the 
atrocities of genocide. Today we remember to never forget.

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