US lawmakers introduce Armenian Genocide Education Act

US Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV), joined by Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Ted Lieu (D-CA), and David Valadao (R-CA), introduced the Armenian Genocide Education Act– a bipartisan initiative directing the Library of Congress to implement a nationwide education program in the United States, ANCA reported.

The bill would authorize $10 million over five years to support the development and dissemination of educational materials, teacher training, online resources, and curriculum integration to teach students across the U.S. about the causes, consequences, and enduring lessons of the Armenian Genocide. 

“By equipping students with educational resources to understand the Armenian Genocide, this bill combats genocide denialism while honoring the memory of the victims,” said Rep. Dina Titus. “This bill is a commitment to truth, justice, and the power of education to build a more informed and compassionate world for future generations.”

“Our darkest moments as a human race have come during times when those who knew better stood silently, making excuses for passivity and allowing injustice and persecution to reign,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis. “We must acknowledge the atrocities of the past so that we might hopefully prevent them in the future. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is through education and awareness, which is why I am proud to co-lead the Armenian Genocide Education Act again.”

“The Armenian Genocide caused the loss of over 1.5 million lives at the hands of the Ottoman Empire, and it’s crucial that dark chapter isn’t forgotten,” said Rep. David Valadao. “Teaching Americans about this tragedy is essential, and as the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, I’m proud to support this effort to strengthen educational efforts and reaffirm our commitment to truth and remembrance.”

“The Armenian Genocide was a horrific manifestation of evil,” said Rep. Ted Lieu. “Though we cannot go back 110 years to prevent the senseless killing of roughly 1.5 million Armenians, we can use education to ensure the victims are never forgotten. The horrors of this atrocity have left a lasting impact on Armenia and its diaspora. It is imperative that we ensure future generations learn about this massacre so nothing like it can ever happen again. I am pleased to join Congresswoman Titus and my Congressional colleagues in co-leading the Armenian Genocide Education Act to provide resources for Armenian Genocide education.”