[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 129 (Friday, September 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1589]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   IN HONOR OF ARMENIAN STATEHOOD DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 20, 2012

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Armenian 
Statehood Day. As the Armenian community in Greater Cleveland gathers 
to celebrate, I join them in appreciation of their rich history and 
culture.
  September 21, 1991, marks the day that Armenia restored its 
independence by becoming the first republic proclaiming independence 
from the Soviet Union. Armenia was originally established by the 
Artashisian Dynasty in 189 BC. Following hundreds of years of 
invasions, the last Armenian kingdom fell at the onset of the 14th 
century. The first Armenian democratic republic was not established 
until 1918, which followed the Armenian Genocide in 1915. 
Unfortunately, just two years later, in 1920, the Armenians were 
occupied by the Soviet Union until they declared sovereignty in 1991.
  Cleveland is home to a strong Armenian community which has succeeded 
in preserving their heritage while wholeheartedly supporting American 
society, thereby contributing to the unique richness and diversity of 
our national culture.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration 
of Armenian Statehood Day. May every American of Armenian heritage hold 
memories of their past forever in their hearts, remembering the day 
that their forbears gained their freedom.

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