[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 5 (Thursday, January 9, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E22]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF BLACK JANUARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 9, 2020

  Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of the 30th 
anniversary of the events in Azerbaijan culminating in what is now 
known as Black January. In January 1990, the former U.S.S.R. attempted 
to continue to suppress freedom and impose its political will on the 
people of Azerbaijan. At that time, however, the people of Azerbaijan 
decided that they had enough of Soviet control and resisted.
  At night, the Red Army marched into Baku to stem the movements for 
equality and freedom. While the Azeris used peaceful protests and calls 
for freedom, the Soviets responded with guns and tanks. These actions 
resulted in 147 civilian deaths, with hundreds more wounded and 
imprisoned.
  The Azeris had seen what happened to prior independence movements in 
the Soviet Union, yet they persevered on. This tragedy only emboldened 
them in their cause, carrying on the mission of their countrymen which 
culminated in their August 1991 independence.
  Since this monumental declaration, Azerbaijan has been a beacon of 
freedom in the region as well as a friend and ally of the United 
States. At this time, we memorialize those fallen and celebrate the 
continued strength of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
  Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to recognize Black 
January and join in the honoring of allies in Azerbaijan and their 
quest for liberation.