Los Angeles County Proclaims Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day

In a unanimous decision on Tuesday, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors marked April 24, 2024, as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, commemorating the 109th anniversary of a devastating chapter in history that claimed over 1.5 million innocent lives.

The motion, spearheaded by Supervisor Kathryn Barger and co-authored by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis shows the importance of acknowledging and reflecting on the past atrocities.

"I believe it’s important to reflect and learn from the past," stated Supervisor Barger. "Remembering the Armenian Genocide gives our diverse communities an opportunity to collectively acknowledge and mourn the loss of over 1.5 million innocent lives."

Supervisor Barger, whose district hosts the largest concentration of Armenians and Armenian-Americans in the County, emphasized the resilience of the Armenian community. "They are resilient people — determined, focused, and dedicated to persevering," she remarked.

Supervisor Solis, representing the First District encompassing the communities of Little Armenia in East Hollywood and Montebello, home to the century-old Armenian Holy Cross Cathedral, highlighted the importance of honoring the victims and survivors.

"As we solemnly remember the many lives that were lost, we also honor the resiliency of the Armenian people who rebuilt their lives from nothing — including those here in Los Angeles County," Solis expressed. She urged a commitment to never forget the Armenian Genocide and to speak out against hatred and atrocities wherever they occur.

Supervisor Barger further conveyed the County's commitment to honoring the victims and survivors of the genocide through a video message, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and solidarity.

The proclamation of Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors shows the collective effort to recognize historical injustices, honor the memory of those lost, and stand against hatred and violence in all its forms.