[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 78 (Friday, April 24, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E393]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      COMMEMORATING THE 105TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TJ COX

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 24, 2020

  Mr. COX of California. Madam Speaker, today marks the 105th 
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide--an atrocity perpetrated by the 
Ottoman Empire that killed over 1.5 million Armenians, as well as 
Assyrians, Greeks, and other Christian peoples. Over a century later, 
we memorialize this tragedy alongside the vibrant Armenian-American 
community in the Central Valley and across our great nation. We must 
never forget the families torn apart, the lives lost, and the immense 
impact the Armenian Genocide had from 1915 until now.
  While we remember the past, we must also recognize the progress we've 
made. This Congress, both the House and the Senate officially 
recognized the Armenian Genocide for the first time in history. I am so 
proud to have been a part of that important milestone for the Armenian 
community, while reiterating our nation's commitment to acknowledging 
human rights violations.
  It is difficult to find an Armenian today without a family story of 
genocide. These stories show us just how long-lasting and detrimental 
the effects of brutality can be. They also highlight the importance of 
promoting peaceful and constructive relationships between nations, 
while condemning perpetrators who deny their history of violence.
  Whether it be in the past, present, or future, we must take a stand 
against genocide and genocide denial across the world. The Armenian 
people do not stand for it, and neither should America. We must 
reassess our relationships with nations that continue to deny the 
Armenian Genocide and continue forward with policies of justice and 
morality.

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