Armenian Genocide Resolution Introduced

YEREVAN, JUNE 15, ARMENPRESS:

On June 14 Congressmen Robert Dold (R-IL) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), along with Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs, Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Ed Royce (R-CA), introduced legislation reaffirming the fact of the Armenian Genocide and America's response to this crime against humanity, reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).

"The United States has a duty to remember those who have no voice," Rep. Dold told the Assembly. "Ninety-six years ago 1.5 million people were killed simply because they were Armenian. I've personally heard stories from Armenian-Americans in my district who lost loved ones during the Armenian Genocide. This appalling tragedy should not be ignored; rather, as a nation that fights for justice it is only fitting that the United States honestly recognize the Armenian Genocide and the victims so that together we can help prevent future genocides," stated Rep. Dold.

Speaking to the importance of the resolution, Rep. Schiff stated, "The facts of history are clear, well documented and non-negotiable - 1.5 million Armenians were deliberately murdered in the first genocide of the 20th century." Rep. Schiff also said that, "If we are to prevent future atrocities, we must condemn genocide whenever and wherever it occurs. It has never served our national interest to be complicit in another nation's campaign of genocide denial, and it never will. While there are still some survivors left, we have a compelling, urgent and moral obligation to speak plainly about the past."

With 57 Members of Congress signed on as original cosponsors at press time, the resolution has already garnered strong bipartisan support. It is modeled after H. Res. 252 and H. Res. 106, which both passed the House Committee on Foreign Affairs during the 111th Congress and 110th Congress, respectively. "The Assembly commends Congressmen Schiff, Dold, Royce and Pallone for their leadership and commitment to reaffirm the historical fact of the Armenian Genocide," said Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "This legislation represents an important opportunity for the United States to assume a leadership role in genocide affirmation and genocide prevention, especially in the face of genocide denial."