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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2013
*Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day*
Today we commemorate the Meds Yeghern and honor those who perished in
one of the worst atrocities of the 20th century. Ninety-eight years
ago, 1.5 million Armenians were massacred or marched to their deaths
in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. We pause to reflect on the
lives extinguished and remember the unspeakable suffering that
occurred. In so doing, we are joined by millions across the world and
in the United States, where it is solemnly commemorated by our states,
institutions, communities, and families. We also remind ourselves of
our commitment to ensure that such dark chapters of history are not
repeated.
I have consistently stated my own view of what occurred in 1915, and
my view has not changed. A full, frank, and just acknowledgement of
the facts is in all of our interests. Nations grow stronger by
acknowledging and reckoning with painful elements of the past, thereby
building a foundation for a more just and tolerant future. We
appreciate this lesson in the United States, as we strive to reconcile
some of the darkest moments in our own history. We recognize those
courageous Armenians and Turks who have already taken this path, and
encourage more to do so, with the backing of their governments, and
mine.
The history and legacy of the Armenian people is marked by an
indomitable spirit, and a great resiliency in the face of tremendous
adversity and suffering. The United States is stronger for the
contributions Armenian-Americans have made to our society, our
culture, and our communities. In small measure we return that
contribution by supporting the Armenian people as they work toward
building a nation that would make their ancestors proud: one that
cherishes democracy and respect for human liberty and dignity.
Today we stand with Armenians everywhere in recalling the horror of
the Meds Yeghern, honoring the memory of those lost, and affirming our
enduring commitment to the people of Armenia.
###
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington DC 20500
Tel: 202-456-1111
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2013
*Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day*
Today we commemorate the Meds Yeghern and honor those who perished in
one of the worst atrocities of the 20th century. Ninety-eight years
ago, 1.5 million Armenians were massacred or marched to their deaths
in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. We pause to reflect on the
lives extinguished and remember the unspeakable suffering that
occurred. In so doing, we are joined by millions across the world and
in the United States, where it is solemnly commemorated by our states,
institutions, communities, and families. We also remind ourselves of
our commitment to ensure that such dark chapters of history are not
repeated.
I have consistently stated my own view of what occurred in 1915, and
my view has not changed. A full, frank, and just acknowledgement of
the facts is in all of our interests. Nations grow stronger by
acknowledging and reckoning with painful elements of the past, thereby
building a foundation for a more just and tolerant future. We
appreciate this lesson in the United States, as we strive to reconcile
some of the darkest moments in our own history. We recognize those
courageous Armenians and Turks who have already taken this path, and
encourage more to do so, with the backing of their governments, and
mine.
The history and legacy of the Armenian people is marked by an
indomitable spirit, and a great resiliency in the face of tremendous
adversity and suffering. The United States is stronger for the
contributions Armenian-Americans have made to our society, our
culture, and our communities. In small measure we return that
contribution by supporting the Armenian people as they work toward
building a nation that would make their ancestors proud: one that
cherishes democracy and respect for human liberty and dignity.
Today we stand with Armenians everywhere in recalling the horror of
the Meds Yeghern, honoring the memory of those lost, and affirming our
enduring commitment to the people of Armenia.
###
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington DC 20500
Tel: 202-456-1111