Dold, Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Commemorate 100th Anniversary of Armenian Genocide

Press Release

In commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, Congressman Robert Dold (IL-10) and Congressmen Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, today welcomed members of the Armenian community to Capitol Hill. The event included remarks by Members of Congress and community leaders, honoring the bravery of those who perished in and survived the Armenian Genocide and highlighting current efforts to properly reaffirm this crime against humanity.

"Whether the Armenian Genocide happened is not a matter of opinion -- it is established fact," Rep. Dold said. "As the world's greatest advocate for freedom, the United States' has an obligation to fully acknowledge one of humanity's most horrific crimes. An unequivocal statement of recognition would not only reinforce our own resolve, but it would also help prevent future genocides by reaffirming that we will not tolerate affronts to human dignity."

"100 years have passed since the start of the Armenian Genocide and the time is long past due to acknowledge the atrocities committed against the Armenian people for exactly what they were -- genocide," Rep. Pallone said. "Tonight, as we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, we remember the lives of the one and a half million Armenians who were needlessly slaughtered by Ottoman Turks during the 20th century's first genocide. As we join together to renew our commitment to prevent and end injustices where they exist, Turkey must also come to terms with its own history and prevent a shroud of denial from covering up one of the most horrific tragedies in world history."

The event was organized by the Armenian Caucus, with the participation of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia, the Office of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and Armenian-American organizations.

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