Georgia Armenian Genocide Recognition

Georgia legislators have recognized the Armenian Genocide on the state and local level. Gubernatorial proclamations as well as state and local legislation are provided below since 1999.  If you know of other documents to be added to this list – old or new – please send a note to elizabeth@anca.org. We look forward to showcasing them.

Georgia citizens also played an active role in assisting Armenian Genocide survivors through the Congressionally mandated Near East Foundation, during the years 1915 – 1930.  Learn more about their efforts below, through research prepared by the ANCA Western Region’s “America We Thank You” program.

And finally, review our snapshot of news coverage of the Armenian Genocide in Georgia press, as we spotlight three articles, prepared as part of the ANCA’s “Genocide Diary” project.  Check back to the Genocide Diary’s Georgia page for new articles added on a monthly basis.

Georgia Gubernatorial Proclamations

A PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF
GEORGIA
April 23 1999

WHEREAS: Over 1 .5 million men, women and children of Armenian descendants were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 19 15- 1923; and

WHEREAS: Official recognition of this atrocity has yet to be granted by the current Turkish government, further extending the • pain felt by the families and relatives of the deceased, including over 500 Armenian families in Georgia; and

WHEREAS: Education, open discussion and constant vigilance against intolerance and hate is the best defense to prevent the repetition of genocidal horrors, such as the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and

WHEREAS: Armenian-Americans have contributed to the wonderful diversity of our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government and the arts; now

THEREFORE: I, Roy E. Barnes, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim April 24, 1999, as the DAY OF REMEMBRANCE OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE OF 19 15 -19 23 in Georgia, and do further request all citizens to pause in remembrance of those who have been victimized by repressive regimes.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 23rd day of April 1999.

(SIGNED)

GOVERNOR
CHIEF OF STAFF

State Senate Resolutions

A RESOLUTION
Honoring the worldwide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 1999, as “Georgia Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923”; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, one and one-half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by consistently remembering and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are highly sensitive to the need for constant vigilance to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the eighty-fourth anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, Georgia is home to over 500 Armenian families; and

WHEREAS, Armenian-Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 24, 1999, as “Georgia Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.”

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Senate calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and one-half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc

Senate Resolution By Senators Fort of the 39th, Tate of the 38th, Brown of the 26th, James of the 35th and Jones of the 10th

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2010, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 24, 2010, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Senate calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta,

Senate Resolution By Senator Fort of the 39th
Georgia
April 11, 2011

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 22, 2011, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 22, 2011, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Senate calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc.

(SIGNED)

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
SECRETARY OF THE SENATE

Senate Resolution By Senator Thompson of the 33rd
Georgia

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2012, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 24, 2012, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Senate calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc.

Senate Resolution By Senator Fort of the 39th

Georgia

March 29, 2012

 

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2012, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

 

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

 

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS. the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

 

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities
in the future; and

 

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

 

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 24, 2012, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Senate calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.

 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc.

 

(SIGNED)

 

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

 

SECRETARY OF THE SENATE

 

PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE

 

SENATOR, DISTRICT 39th

Senate Resolution By Senators Parent of the 42nd, Shafer of the 48th, Henson of the 41st, Miller of the 49th, Unterman of the 45th and others
Georgia

Recognizing the month of April, 2015, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the capitol; and for other

WHEREAS, the goal of Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month is to educate the public about the history of previous and contemporary genocides; how to advocate against future genocides; to focus attention on the specter of genocide so that policies, strategies, and programs geared towards combating the evils of genocide can be developed; and to commemorate the victims of genocide; and

WHEREAS, during World War II, a Polish lawyer of Jewish decent, Raphael Lemkin, coined the term “genocide” to describe the coordinated plan of actions aimed at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of certain groups with the aim of annihilating a group itself by disintegrating a group’s social institutions, culture, language, national or ethnic identities, religion, and economic existence, while also destroying the personal security, liberty, health, and dignity, as well as the lives, of individuals belonging to the group; and

WHEREAS, throughout history, numerous genocides originated or stemmed from events that occurred in April, and as a result, many institutions around the world have designated April to be a month of genocide prevention and awareness; and

WHEREAS, when coining the term “genocide,” Raphael Lemkin was moved to investigate the forced assimilation, deportation, and near complete eradication of the Armenian population beginning in April 1915; prompting Adolf Hitler to remark in 1939, “Who after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?”; and

WHEREAS, this April marks the 100th anniversary of the Armenian (and other Christian communities’) Genocide during the time of the Ottoman Empire; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1933, the Nazis issued a decree preparing the way for the “Final Solution” defining non-Aryans as “anyone descended from non-Aryan, especially Jewish, parents or grandparents”; and

WHEREAS, 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the Cambodian genocide, where in April of 1975, Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge took power in Cambodia, conducting wide-spread killings of people belonging to specific groups, as well as an involuntary relocation of all city dwellers to the countryside for forced labor in squalid conditions, resulting in famine and starvation which turned the countryside into killing fields; these acts resulted in the deaths of two million people; and

WHEREAS, 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the 1992-1995 siege of Sarajevo, Srebrenica, and other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ultimately led to the deaths of more than 200,000 Bosniaks, or Bosnian Muslims; and

WHEREAS, the Al-Anfal Campaign (1984-1988), under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, sought to destroy and depopulate the Kurdistan Region in northern Iraq and notoriously used chemical weapons to this end, which caused the death of over 180,000 Kurds and others, the destruction of over 4,500 villages (90 percent of villages in the region), and resulted in creating millions of refugees and internally displaced persons; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1994, the Rwandan president’s airplane was shot down, which led to the slaying of 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus by the Interhamwe over the next three months; and

WHEREAS, in April of 2003, the displacement and killing of Darfurians began by the Government of Sudan and led to hundreds of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions which continues unabated today; and

WHEREAS, the so-called Islamic State (ISIS/L) has forcefully caused the civilian population of the Ezidi-Kurdish religious minority in Iraq and Syria, beginning in 2014 through the present day, to flee from their ancestral towns, villages, and holy sites as a result of forced conversion, killing, kidnaping, and enslaving of their population — particularly women and children and according to their records, this is the 74th genocide throughout the population’s history; and

WHEREAS, the Genocide Prevention Task Force released its report on December of 2008 to spotlight genocide prevention as a national priority; and

WHEREAS, in 2011 the President of the United States declared the prevention of mass atrocities and genocide to be a “core national security interest and core moral responsibility” of the United States and ordered the creation of the Atrocities Prevention Board in 2012; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust is a state agency whose mission is to use the lessons of the Holocaust to educate the citizens of Georgia on the consequences of unchecked hate and the need for social justice, and to encourage strong moral character and citizenship; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide operates as a proactive group with a mission to develop a permanent anti-genocide constituency in Georgia, and it depends on citizen support to engage elected officials at the state and national levels through advocacy and action and by creating awareness within the community; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper to recognize the contributions of the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide, Eternal-Life Hemshech of Holocaust Survivors, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust, The Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta, The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, The American Jewish Committee Atlanta Regional Office, and ACCESS Atlanta in their efforts to enhance the security and dignity of minority populations across the globe.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize the month of April, 2015, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the capitol and commend the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide for its dedicated efforts in preventing genocide.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide.

Senate Resolution 991 By Senators Parent of the 42nd, Shafer of the 48th, Unterman of the 45th, McKoon of the 29th, Orrock of the 36th and others
Georgia

Recognizing the month of April, 2016, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the Capitol; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the goal of Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month is to educate the public about the history of previous and contemporary genocides; how to advocate against future genocides; to focus attention on the specter of genocide so that policies, strategies, and programs geared toward combating the evils of genocide can be developed; and to commemorate the victims of genocide; and

WHEREAS, during World War II, a Polish lawyer of Jewish decent, Raphael Lemkin, coined the term “genocide” to describe the coordinated plan of actions aimed at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of certain groups with the aim of annihilating a group itself by disintegrating a group’s social institutions, culture, language, national or ethnic identities, religion, and economic existence while also destroying the personal security, liberty, health, and dignity, as well as the lives, of individuals belonging to the group; and

WHEREAS, throughout history, numerous genocides originated or stemmed from events that occurred in April, and as a result, many institutions around the world have designated April to be a month of genocide prevention and awareness; and

WHEREAS, when coining the term “genocide,” Raphael Lemkin was moved to investigate the forced assimilation, deportation, and near eradication of the Armenian population and other Christian communities, beginning in April, 1915, prompting Adolf Hitler to remark in 1939, “Who after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?”; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1933, the Nazis issued a decree preparing the way for the “Final Solution” defining non-Aryans as “anyone descended from non-Aryan, especially Jewish, parents or grandparents”; and

WHEREAS, in 1975, Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge took power in Cambodia, conducting widespread killings of people belonging to specific groups, as well as an involuntary relocation of all city dwellers to the countryside for forced labor in squalid conditions, resulting in famine and starvation which turned the countryside into killing fields; these acts resulted in the deaths of 2 million people; and

WHEREAS, the 1992-1995 siege of Sarajevo, Srebrenica, and other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ultimately led to the deaths of more than 200,000 Bosniaks, or Bosnian Muslims; and

WHEREAS, the Al-Anfal Campaign (1984-1988), under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, sought to destroy and depopulate the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq and notoriously used chemical weapons to that end, which caused the deaths of over 180,000 Kurds and others, the destruction of more than 4,500 villages (90 percent of villages in the region), and resulted in creating millions of refugees and internally displaced persons; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1994, the Rwandan president’s airplane was shot down, which led to the slaying of 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus by the Interhamwe over the next three months; and

WHEREAS, in April of 2003, the displacement and killing of Darfurians began by the government of Sudan, and led to hundreds of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, which continues unabated to this day; and

WHEREAS, DAESH, the so-called Islamic State, has forcefully caused the civilian population of the Ezidi-Kurdhish religious minority in Iraq and Syria, beginning in 2014 through the present day, to flee from their ancestral towns, villages, and holy sites as a result of forced conversion, killing, kidnapping, and enslaving of their population–particularly women and children. According to their records, this is the 74th genocide throughout that population’s history; and

WHEREAS, the Genocide Prevention Task Force released its report on December of 2008 to spotlight genocide prevention as a national priority; and

WHEREAS, in 2011, the President of the United States declared the prevention of mass atrocities and genocide to be a “core national security interest and core moral responsibility” of the United States and ordered the creation of the Atrocities Prevention Board in 2012; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust is a state agency whose mission is to use the lessons of the Holocaust to educate the citizens of Georgia on the consequences of unchecked hate and the need for social justice, and to encourage strong moral character and citizenship; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide operates as a proactive group with a mission to develop a permanent antigenocide constituency in Georgia, and it depends on citizen support to engage elected officials at the state and national levels through advocacy and action and by creating awareness within the community; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper to recognize the contributions of the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide, Am Yisrael Chai, Eternal-Life Hemshech of Holocaust Survivors, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Atlanta Regional Office, and AJC’s ACCESS Atlanta in their efforts to enhance the security and dignity of minority populations across the globe.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize the month of April, 2016, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the Capitol and commend the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide for its dedicated efforts in preventing genocide.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide.

Senate Resolution By Senators Fort of the 39th, Lucas of the 26th, Rhett of the 33rd and Jones II of the 22nd
Georgia

Memorializing the Armenian Genocide of 1915 through 1923 and recognizing April 24 as a Day of Remembrance; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, from 1915-1923, one and one-half million ethnic Armenian men, women, and children were murdered in their ancestral homeland by the Ottoman Turkish Empire; and

WHEREAS, during the same time period, the Ottoman authorities killed over one million Greeks, Assyrians, Pontians, Syriacs, and others as part of the planned complete eradication of these indigenous communities; and

WHEREAS, Near East Relief’s efforts, with the active participation of the Peach State, resulted in delivering $117 million of assistance between 1915 and 1930, that directly resulted in the salvation of the Christian Armenian, Greek, and Assyrian refugees from being completely annihilated by the genocide; and

WHEREAS, prior to the implementation of the Holocaust, in order to garner support from his followers, Adolf Hitler asked, “Who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?”; and

WHEREAS, the genocide has been recognized by 44 of the United States and 27 countries, including: Canada, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Vatican, and Argentina; and

WHEREAS, Armenia is now a free, independent, democratic ally of the United States; and

WHEREAS, other cases of genocide include the killings in Cambodia in 1975, the massacres in Bosnia in 1992, the slaughter in Rwanda in 1994, and now in the 21st Century the
20 displacements and deaths in Darfur as well as targeting of religious minorities by ISIL in the
21 Middle East; and

S. R. 258
-1-

17 LC 113 0132

22 WHEREAS, the United States House of Representatives has adopted H.Con.Res. 75,
23 declaring the atrocities perpetrated by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) against
24 Christians, Yezidis, and other religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq and Syria constitute war
25 crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide; and
26 WHEREAS, by recognizing and consistently remembering the Armenian Genocide, we help
27 protect cultural and historic memory and ensure that similar atrocities do not occur again.
28 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body
29 memorialize the Armenian Genocide committed by the Ottoman Turkish Empire as an issue
30 of historical and cultural significance that still requires justice and recognize April 24 as a
31 Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Armenian Genocide.
32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
33 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the
34 press.

S.R. 258
-2-

Georgia House

House Resolution 2254
By: Representative Teilhet of the 40th
A RESOLUTION

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2010, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body join the Armenian community in honoring the memory of the victims of genocide throughout the world and recognize April 24, 2010, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the House of Representatives calls upon the people of Georgia to observe that day by remembering the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to that the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta,

House Resolution 904

By: Representatives Douglas of the 78th, Gardner of the 57th, and Oliver of the 82nd

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2015, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the  Armenian  genocide  and  massacres  of  Armenian  people  have   been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize April 24, 2015, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta,

A RESOLUTION
By: Representative Rashad Taylor – District 55
Georgia House of Representatives

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 22, 2011, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women,. and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and, massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded’ of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that April 22, 2011, is recognized as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time

So resolved, this 20th day of April,2011.

(SIGNED)

Representative Rashad Taylor
District 55
Georgia House of Representatives

A RESOLUTION
By: Representative Rashad Taylor – District 55
Georgia House of Representatives

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 24, 2012, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

WHEREAS. the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

WHEREAS, as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that April 24, 2012, is recognized as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915- 1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.

So resolved, this 24th day of April, 2012.

Representative Rashad Taylor
District 55
Georgia House of Represtatives

House Resolution 428
By: Representatives Jacobs of the 80th, Abrams of the 89th, Pak of the 108th, Wilkinson of the 52nd, Oliver of the 82nd, and others
A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the month of April, 2015, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the Capitol and inviting the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide to be recognized by the House of Representatives; and for other

WHEREAS, the goal of Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month is to educate the public about the history of previous and contemporary genocides; how to advocate against future genocides; to focus attention on the specter of genocide so that policies, strategies, and programs geared towards combating the evils of genocide can be developed; and to commemorate the victims of genocide; and

WHEREAS, during World War II, a Polish lawyer of Jewish decent, Raphael Lemkin, coined the term “genocide” to describe the coordinated plan of actions aimed at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of certain groups with the aim of annihilating a group itself by disintegrating a group’s social institutions, culture, language, national or ethnic identities, religion, and economic existence while also destroying the personal security, liberty, health, and dignity, as well as the lives, of individuals belonging to the group; and

WHEREAS, throughout history, numerous genocides originated or stemmed from events that occurred in April, and as a result, many institutions around the world have designated April to be a month of genocide prevention and awareness; and

WHEREAS, when coining the term “genocide,” Raphael Lemkin was moved to investigate the forced assimilation, deportation, and near eradication of the Armenian population beginning in April, 1915; prompting Adolf Hitler to remark in 1939, “Who after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?” This April marks the 100th anniversary of the Armenian (and other Christian communities’) genocide during the time of the Ottoman Empire; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1933, the Nazis issued a decree preparing the way for the “Final Solution” defining non-Aryans as “anyone descended from non-Aryan, especially Jewish, parents or grandparents”; and

WHEREAS, 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the Cambodian genocide, where, in April of 1975, Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge took power in Cambodia, conducting wide-spread killings of people belonging to specific groups, as well as an involuntary relocation of all city dwellers to the countryside for forced labor in squalid conditions, resulting in famine and starvation which turned the countryside into killing fields; these acts resulted in the deaths of two million people; and

WHEREAS, 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the 1992-1995 siege of Sarajevo, Srebrenica, and other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ultimately led to the deaths of more than 200,000 Bosniaks, or Bosnian Muslims; and

WHEREAS, the Al-Anfal Campaign (1984-1988), under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, sought to destroy and depopulate the Kurdistan Region in northern Iraq and notoriously used chemical weapons to this end, which caused the death of over 180,000 Kurds and others, the destruction of more than 4,500 villages (90 percent of villages in the region), and resulted in creating millions of refugees and internally displaced persons; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1994, the Rwandan president’s airplane was shot down, which led to the slaying of 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus by the Interhamwe over the next three months; and

WHEREAS, in April of 2003, the displacement and killing of Darfurians began by the Government of Sudan, and led to hundreds of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, which continues unabated today; and

WHEREAS, the so-called Islamic State (ISIS/L) has forcefully caused the civilian population of the Ezidi-Kurdhish religious minority in Iraq and Syria, beginning in 2014 through the present day, to flee from their ancestral towns, villages, and holy sites as a result of forced conversion, killing, kidnapping, and enslaving their population – particularly women and According to their records, this is the 74th genocide throughout that population’s history; and

WHEREAS, the Genocide Prevention Task Force released its report on December of 2008 to spotlight genocide prevention as a national priority; and

WHEREAS, in 2011, the President of the United States declared the prevention of mass atrocities and genocide to be a “core national security interest and core moral responsibility” of the United States and ordered the creation of the Atrocities Prevention Board in 2012; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust is a state agency whose mission is to use the lessons of the Holocaust to educate the citizens of Georgia on the consequences of unchecked hate and the need for social justice, and to encourage strong moral character and citizenship; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide operates as a proactive group with a mission to develop a permanent antigenocide constituency in Georgia, and it depends on citizen support to engage elected officials at the state and national levels through advocacy and action and by creating awareness within the community; and WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper to recognize the contributions of the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide, Eternal-Life Hemshech of Holocaust Survivors, the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the American Jewish Committee Atlanta Regional Office, and ACCESS Atlanta in their efforts to enhance the security and dignity of minority populations across the

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize the month of April, 2015, as Genocide Prevention and Awareness Month at the Capitol, commend the Georgia Coalition to Prevent Genocide for its dedicated efforts in preventing genocide, and invite its members to be recognized by the House of Representatives at a date and time to be determined by the Speaker of the House.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Georgia Coalition to Prevent

17 LC 114 0298
House Resolution 483
By: Representatives Bruce of the 61st, Frazier of the 126th, Williams of the 87th, and Jackson
of the 128th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing April 1, 2017, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000 years old; and

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history; and

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these horrific events; and

<strong>WHEREAS,</strong> as home to over 500 Armenian families, Armenian Americans living in Georgia have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.

<strong>NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES</strong> that the members of this body recognize April 1, 2017, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.

<strong>BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED</strong> that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc.

Georgia General Assembly
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Session:
2019-2020 Regular Session
You are viewing a page from the 2019-2020 Regular Session. This is not the current session.
HR 145
Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; March 12, 2019; recognize
Versions

Sponsors
No.Number in list Name District
1. Bazemore, Debra 63rd
2. Bruce, Roger 61st
Committees
House Committee:
N/A
Senate Committee:
N/A
First Reader Summary
A RESOLUTION honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing March 12, 2019, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.
Status History
Date Status
02/06/2019 House Read and Adopted
02/06/2019 House First Readers
02/06/2019 House Hopper
Footnotes
No Footnotes available.
Votes
Date Vote No. Yea Nay NV Exc
No Votes available.
Helpful Links

Georgia.gov
Governor’s Office
Secretary of State
Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Georgia Department of Revenue
Georgia Department of Labor

Legislative Resources

House of Representatives
Senate
Open RFP’s
Senate Staffing
Intern Program

Copyright © 2021 The Georgia General Assembly
LC 119 0082/a
Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; March 12, 2019; recognize
19
LC 119 0082
House Resolution 145
By: Representatives Bazemore of the 63rd and Bruce of the 61st
A RESOLUTION
1 Honoring the world-wide victims of genocide and recognizing March 12, 2019, as Georgia’s
2 Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

3 WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the
4 victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman
5 Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

6 WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been
7 recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000
8 years old; and

9 WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government
10 continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history;
11 and

12 WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed
13 against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order
14 to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and

15 WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the
16 repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these
17 horrific events; and

18 WHEREAS, Georgia is home to over 500 Armenian families, and Armenian Americans
19 living in this state have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business,
20 agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.
21 NOW, THEREFORE, BEITRESOLVEDBYTHEHOUSEOFREPRESENTATIVESthat
22 the members of this body recognize March 12, 2019, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of
H. R. 145
– 1 –
19
LC 119 0082
23 the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people
24 of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.
25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
26 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the
27 Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta, Inc.

Session:
2021-2022 Regular Session (Current)
HR 375
Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; March 12, 2021; honoring the worldwide victims of genocide; recognize
Versions

Sponsors
No.Number in list Name District
1. Bazemore, Debra 63rd
2. Bruce, Roger 61st
3. Kendrick, Dar’shun 93rd
Committees
House Committee:
N/A
Senate Committee:
N/A
First Reader Summary
A RESOLUTION honoring the worldwide victims of genocide and recognizing March 12, 2021, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.
Status History
Date Status
03/10/2021 House Read and Adopted
03/10/2021 House First Readers
03/10/2021 House Hopper
Footnotes
No Footnotes available.
Votes
Date Vote No. Yea Nay NV Exc
No Votes available.
Helpful Links

Georgia.gov
Governor’s Office
Secretary of State
Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Georgia Department of Revenue
Georgia Department of Labor

Legislative Resources

House of Representatives
Senate
Open RFP’s
Senate Staffing
Intern Program

Copyright © 2021 The Georgia General Assembly
LC 123 0201/a
Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; March 12, 2021; honoring the worldwide victims of genocide; recognize
21
LC 123 0201
House Resolution 375
By: Representatives Bazemore of the 63rd, Bruce of the 61st, and Kendrick of the 93rd
A RESOLUTION
1 Honoring the worldwide victims of genocide and recognizing March 12, 2021, as Georgia’s
2 Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923; and for other purposes.

3 WHEREAS, one and a half million men, women, and children of Armenian descent were the
4 victims of the brutal genocide perpetrated by the Young Turk government of the Ottoman
5 Empire from 1915 to 1923; and

6 WHEREAS, the Armenian genocide and massacres of Armenian people have been
7 recognized as an attempt to eliminate all traces of a thriving and noble civilization over 3,000
8 years old; and

9 WHEREAS, the denial of the Armenian genocide by the present-day Turkish government
10 continues to antagonize the Armenian people concerning their own rightful place in history;
11 and

12 WHEREAS, by raising awareness of and openly condemning the atrocities committed
13 against the Armenians, Georgians are reminded of the need for constant vigilance in order
14 to prevent similar atrocities in the future; and
H. R. 375
– 1 –
21
LC 123 0201

15 WHEREAS, recognition of the anniversary of this genocide is crucial to guarding against the
16 repetition of future genocides and educating people about the atrocities connected to these
17 horrific events; and

18 WHEREAS, Georgia is home to over 500 Armenian families, and Armenian Americans
19 living in this state have greatly enriched our state through their leadership in business,
20 agriculture, academia, government, and the arts.
21 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
22 the members of this body recognize March 12, 2021, as Georgia’s Day of Remembrance of
23 the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 in remembrance of the one and a half million people
24 of Armenian ancestry who lost their lives during that terrible time.
25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
26 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the
27 Armenian Independent Cultural Association of Atlanta Inc.

Georgia Municipal

PROCLAMATION BY THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
CITY OF ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2001
Armenian Genocide Commemoration Day

Whereas, The City of Atlanta is proud to join the Armenian community as it
honors the victims of the Armenian genocide; and

Whereas, Armenia is one of the world’s oldest civilizations and was the first country to officially embrace Christianity as its religion; and

Whereas, Genocide, as defined in the United Nations’ Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, is the destruction of “a national; ethnic, racial-, or religious group”, and;

Whereas, Thousands of Armenians were massacred in 1894 and 1896 in an effort to since Armenian nationalists, and;

Whereas, In April 1915, during World War II, Armenians were deported to the deserts of Syria and Mesopotamia by the Turks, and;

Whereas, In the atrocity that has become known as the greatest unacknowledged genocide in recent history 1.5 million Armenians were murdered or starved to death, and;

Whereas, The bitterness of genocide has not tarnished the pride of Armenians in their culture and traditions, and;

Whereas, We commend the Armenian community for remembering those who senselessly loss their lives through the evil of genocide:

Well, Therefore, I, Bill Campbell, Mayor of Atlanta, and on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, hereby proclaim April 24, 2001 as “Armenian Genocide

Commemoration Day” in our City.

(SIGNED)
Bill Campbell
Mayor

CITY OF ATLANTA

55 TRINITY AVENUE, S.W
KASIM REED ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303-0300
MAYOR TEL 14041 330-6100

April 22, 2011

Mr. Sarkis Agasarkisian
Chairman
Armenian National Committee of Georgia
250 Spring Street, NW, Suite 6W 119
Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Chairman Agasarkisian:

On behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, I want to express my deepest sympathies as we remember the 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives during the Armenian genocide.

Remembrance is truly special because it offers a dual promise; it provides a unique opportunity to reflect upon the past experiences that make us who we are, while also embracing the potential of a brighter tomorrow. This year’s 96th anniversary of the Armenian genocide highlights an annual world-wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915 and 1923. As you assemble to commemorate this tragic occurrence, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights. Your promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community.

While I regret that I am unable to join you during this year’s commemorative activities, I applaud your awe-inspiring courage in the face of unimaginable human loss. It is through your leadership serving others, sharing faith, and gathering in fellowship that you have been able to move forward as a community with grace, dignity and love.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every day afterwards.

Sincerely,
Kasim Reed

(Mayor)

CONGRATULATIONS
On behalf of the People of Atlanta, I commend

The Atlanta Armenian Community
as you assemble to commemorate the 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives
during the Armenian genocide. This year’s 96th anniversary of the genocide highlights an annual world-
wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915
and 1923. Today, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights. Your
promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race
relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community. On behalf of the people of
we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every
day afterwards.

April 22, 2011
(SIGNED)
Kasim Reed
Mayor of Atlanta

PROCLAMATION BY THE ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL
ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2012

In Honor of the 97th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide

WHEREAS, The Armenian National Committee of Georgia joins human rights advocates and Armenian Americans from across the state in calling for U.S. support for a truthful and just resolution of the Armenian Genocide; and,

WHEREAS, Armenians and non-Armenians have gathered to remember the 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically murdered by Turkey from 1915 to 1923; and,

WHEREAS, In their dedication to preserve the memory of their ancestors, Armenians remain committed to advancing the cause of human rights and preventing future genocide; and,

WHEREAS, This observance honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide and re-iterates the call to end U.S. complicity in Turkey’s international campaign of genocide denial; and,

WHEREAS, The annual event attracts hundreds and serves as an important venue for Armenian Americans and human rights advocates to share their expectation that U.S. policy rise above Turkey’s threats and reflect the core values of the American people.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, C.T. Martin, a member of the Atlanta City Council, and on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, hereby recognize the 97th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide on this 24th day of April 2012.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I HAVE
HEREUN’TO SET MY HAND AND
CAUSED THE SEAL OF THE CITY
OF ATLANTA TO BE AFFIXED

(SIGNED)

Ceasar C. Mitchell
President, Atlanta City Council
C.T. Martin
Council District 10

CITY OF ATLANTA

KASIM REED 55 TRINITY AVE, S.W.
MAYOR ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30335-0300

TEL (404) 330-6100

April 24, 2012

Mr. Sarkis Agasarkisian

Chairman

Armenian National Committee of Georgia

250 Spring Street, NW, Suite 6W 119

Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Chairman Agasarkisian:

On behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, I want to express my deepest sympathies as we remember the

1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives during the Armenian

genocide.

Remembrance is truly special because it offers a dual promise; it provides a unique opportunity to

reflect upon the past experiences that make us who we are, while also embracing the potential of

a brighter tomorrow. This year’s 97th anniversary of the Armenian genocide highlights an annual

world-wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people

between 1915 and 1923. As you assemble to commemorate this tragic occurrence, I salute the

Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights. Your promotion of a public

dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race relations and

build a strong foundation for unity within our community.

While I regret that I am unable to join you during this year’s commemorative activities, I applaud

your awe-inspiring courage in the face of unimaginable human loss. It is through your leadership

serving others, sharing faith, and gathering in fellowship that you have been able to move forward

as a community with grace, dignity and love.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian

Genocide Remembrance Day and every day afterwards.

Sincerely,

(SIGNED)

Kasim Reed

CONGRATULATIONS
On behalf of the People of-Atlanta, I commend
The Atlanta Armenian Community
as you assemble to commemorate the 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children who lost their lives ‘W1i0 Cost their rives
during the Armenian genocide. This year’s 97th anniversary of the genocide highlights an annual world-
wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915
and 1923. Today, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights. Your
promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race
relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community. On behalf of the people of
Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every
day afterwards.

April 24, 2012 (SIGNED)
Kasim Reed
Mayor of Atlanta

PROCLAMATION BY THE ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL
ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2014

In Honor of the 99th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide

WHEREAS, The Armenian National Committee of Georgia joins human rights advocates and Armenian Americans from across the state in calling for U.S. support for a truthful and just resolution of the Armenian Genocide; and,

WHEREAS, Armenians and non-Armenians have gathered to remember the 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically murdered by Turkey from 1915 to 1923; and,

WHEREAS, In their dedication to preserve the memory of their ancestors, Armenians remain committed to advancing the cause of human rights and preventing future genocide; and,

WHEREAS, This observance honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide and re-iterates the call to end U.S. complicity in Turkey’s international campaign of genocide denial; and,

WHEREAS, The annual event attracts hundreds and serves as an important venue for Armenian Americans and human rights advocates to share their expectation that U.S. policy rise above Turkey’s threats and reflect the core values of the American people.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, C.T. Martin, a member of the Atlanta City Council, and on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, hereby recognize the 99th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide on this 24th day of April 2015.

IN WITNESS WHERE OF, I HAVE
HEREUNTO SET MY HAND AND
CAUSED THE SEAL OF THE CITY
OF ATLANTA TO BE AFFIXED

(SIGNED)

C.T. Martin
Council District 10

KASIM REED
MAYOR
April 24, 2014

CITY OF ATLANTA
55 TRINITY AVE, S.W. ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30335-0300
TEL (404) 330-6109

Mr. Sarkis Agasarkisian Chairman Armenian National Committee of Georgia 250 Spring Street, NW, Suite 6W 119 Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Chairman Agasarkisian:

I express my deepest sympathies as we remember the 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives during the Armenian, genocide. This year’s 99th anniversary of the genocide highlights an annual world-wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915 and 1923.

As you assemble to commemorate this tragic occurrence, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights and cultural understanding. Your promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every day afterwards.

Sincerely,
Kasim Reed

PROCLAMATION BY THE ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL
ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2015

In Honor of the 100th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide

WHEREAS, The Armenian National Committee of Georgia joins human rights advocates and Armenian Americans from across the state in calling for U.S. support for a truthful and just resolution of the Armenian Genocide; and,

WHEREAS, Armenians and non-Armenians have gathered to remember the 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically murdered by Turkey from 1915 to 1923; and,

WHEREAS, In their dedication to preserve the memory of their ancestors, Armenians remain committed to advancing the cause of human rights and preventing future genocide; and,

WHEREAS, This observance honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide and re-iterates the call to end U.S. complicity in Turkey’s international campaign of genocide denial; and,

WHEREAS, The annual event attracts hundreds and serves as an important venue for Armenian Americans and human rights advocates to share their expectation that U.S. policy rise above Turkey’s threats and reflect the core values of the American people.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, C.T. Martin, a member of the Atlanta City Council, and on

behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, hereby recognize the 100thCommemoration of

the Armenian Genocide on this 24th day of April 2015.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I HAVE
HEREUNTO SET MY HAND AND
CAUSED THE SEAL OF THE CITY
OF ATLANTA TO RE-AFFIXED

(SIGNED)

C.T. Martin
Council District 10

Kasim Reed
MAYOR

CITY OF ATLANTA
55 TRINITY AVE, S.W.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30335-0300
TEL (404) 330-6100

April 24, 2015

Mr. Sarkis Agasarkisian
Chairman
American Armenian Association of Georgia
250 Spring Street, NW, Suite 6W 119
Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Chairman Agasarkisian:

I express my deepest sympathies as we remember the 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives during the Armenian genocide. This year’s 100th
anniversary of the genocide highlights an annual world-wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915 and 1923.

As you assemble to commemorate this tragic occurrence, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights and cultural understanding.

Your promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every day afterwards.

Sincerely,
Kasim Reed

PROCLAMATION BY THE ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL
ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2017

In Honor of the 102nd Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide

WHEREAS, The Armenian National Committee of Georgia joins human rights advocates and Armenian Americans from across the state in calling for U.S. support for a truthful and just resolution of the Armenian Genocide; and,

WHEREAS, Armenians and non-Armenians have gathered to remember the 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically murdered by Turkey from 1915 to 1923; and,

WHEREAS, In their dedication to preserve the memory of their ancestors, Armenians remain committed to advancing the cause of human rights and preventing future genocide; and,

WHEREAS, This observance honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide and re-iterates the call to end U.S. complicity in Turkey’s international campaign of genocide denial; and,

WHEREAS, The annual event attracts hundreds and serves as an important venue for Armenian Americans and human rights advocates to share their expectation that U.S. policy rise above Turkey’s threats and reflect the core values of the American people.

NOW, THEREFORE, We, the members of the Atlanta City Council, and on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, hereby recognize the 102nd Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide on this 24th day of April 2017.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I HAVE
HEREUNTO SET MY HAND AND
CAUSED THE SEAL OF THE CITY
OF ATLANTA TO BE AFFIXED

(SIGNED)

Ceasar C. Mitchell
President, Atlanta City Council
Michael Julian Bond
Post 1 At-Large
C.T. Martin
Council District 10

KASIM REED
MAYOR

CITY OF ATLANTA
55 TRINITY AVE, S.W.
ATLANTA. GEORGIA 30335-0300
TEL (404) 330-61 00
April 24, 2017

Mr. Sarkis Agasarkisian
Chairman
American Armenian Association of Georgia
250 Spring Street, NW, Suite 6W 119
Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Chairman Agasarkisian:

I express my deepest sympathies as we remember the 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children who lost their lives during the Armenian genocide. This year’s 102nd anniversary of the genocide highlights an annual world-wide day of remembrance of the grave atrocities committed against the Armenian people between 1915 and 1923.

As you assemble to commemorate this tragic occurrence, I salute the Armenian community for all that you do to advance human rights and cultural understanding.

Your promotion of a public dialogue regarding this genocide and its legacy will surely inspire positive race relations and build a strong foundation for unity within our community.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, we affirm our belief in tolerance and justice on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and every day afterwards.

Sincerely,
Mayor Kasim Reed

PROCLAMATION BY THE ATLANTA CITY COUNCIL
ATLANTA
APRIL 24, 2018

In Observance of Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day

WHEREAS, The Atlanta City Council joins the Armenian National Committee of Georgia to commemorate and mourn the sufferings of the Armenian people when, from 1915 to 1923, more than 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children were murdered or sent on death marches; and,

WHEREAS, The Atlanta City Council joins the Armenian National Committee of Georgia to commemorate and mourn the sufferings of the Armenian people when, from 1915 to 1923, more than 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children were murdered or sent on death marches; and,

WHEREAS, Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day is consecrated as a national holiday in Armenia and observed by Armenians dispersed in communities throughout the world on April 24; and,

WHEREAS, The United Nations’ convention on the prevention and punishment of the crime of genocide defines this action as the destruction of a national, ethical, racial, or religious group; and,

WHEREAS, While Armenia is one of the world’s oldest civilizations and was the first country to officially embrace Christianity as its national religion, the bitterness of their early 20th-century genocide has not tarnished the pride of Armenians in their rich history, culture, and traditions; and,

WHEREAS, The Atlanta City Council commends the Armenian community for dedicatedly remembering all who needlessly lost their lives through the evils of senseless holocaust.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT WE, the members of the Atlanta Go Council, on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, do hereby commemorate this 24th day of April 2018 as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the City of Atlanta. We recognize and honor the survivors of the 20th-century Armenian genocide as well as those who perished during this atrocious time, and we urge all people to affirm our commitment to tolerance, justice, and kinship in a moral and upright society.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WE HAVE
HEREUNTO SET OUR HANDS AND
CAUSED THE SEAL OF THE CITY
OF ATLANTA TO BE AFFIXED

(SIGNED)

Felicia A. Moore
President, Atlanta City Council

Carla Smith
Amir R. Farokhi
Ivory Lee Young Jr.
Council District 1
Council District 2
Council District 3
Cleta Winslow
Natalyn Mosby Archibong
Jennifer N. Ide
Council District 4
Council District 5
Council District 6
Howard Shook
J.P. Matzigkeit
Dustin Hillis
Council District 7
Council District 8
Council District 9
Andrea L. Boone
Marci Collier Overstreet
Joyce M. Sheperd
Council District 10
Council District 11
Council District 12
Michael Julian Bond
Matt Westmoreland
Andre Dickens
Post 1 At-Large
Post 2 At-Large
Post 3 At-Large

Georgia Support for Survivors of the Armenian Genocide

Georgia was an integral supporter of Near East Relief (NER), the American-led campaign that quickly sparked an international response with its unprecedented humanitarian endeavor, mobilizing all segments of American citizenry including elected officials, celebrities and laypersons alike, to help rescue victims of the Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey from 1915-1930.

Georgia facilitated its NER efforts through its state office headquarters located in the Atlanta Trust Company

The only major daily newspaper in Atlanta, The Constitution published an article on June 8, 1922, among other days, stating that NER’s designated clothing drives termed “Bundle Days” were days dedicated to humanity and consecrated in the spirit of God who said that “Inasmuch as ye did it  unto one of the least of these, ye did it unto ” The activities of Bundle Days, so far as they related to NER, were governed by the appropriate slogan, “The bigger the heart, the bigger will be the bundle.”

Read the complete fact sheet prepared by America We Thank You.

The Armenian Genocide in Georgia Press

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