Statement of President Barack Obama on Armenian Remembrance
Day
24-04-2010 21:30:00 | USA | Politics
WASHINGTON, APRIL 24, NOYAN TAPAN.
On this solemn day of remembrance, we pause to recall that
ninety-five years ago one of the worst atrocities of the 20th
century began. In that dark moment of history, 1.5 million
Armenians were massacred or marched to their death in the final
days of the Ottoman Empire.
Today is a day to reflect upon and draw lessons from these
terrible events. I have consistently stated my own view of what
occurred in 1915, and my view of that history has not changed.
It is in all of our interest to see the achievement a full,
frank and just acknowledgment of the facts. The Meds Yeghern is
a devastating chapter in the history of the Armenian people, and
we must keep its memory alive in honor of those who were
murdered and so that we do not repeat the grave mistakes of the
past. I salute the Turks who saved Armenians in 1915 and am
encouraged by the dialogue among Turks and Armenians, and within
Turkey itself, regarding this painful history. Together, the
Turkish and Armenian people will be stronger as they acknowledge
their common history and recognize their common humanity.
Even as we confront the inhumanity of 1915, we also are
inspired by the remarkable spirit of the Armenian people. While
nothing can bring back those who were killed in the Meds
Yeghern, the contributions that Armenians have made around the
world over the last ninety-five years stand as a testament to
the strength, tenacity and courage of the Armenian people. The
indomitable spirit of the Armenian people is a lasting triumph
over those who set out to destroy them. Many Armenians came to
the United States as survivors of the horrors of 1915. Over the
generations Americans of Armenian descent have richened our
communities, spurred our economy, and strengthened our
democracy. The strong traditions and culture of Armenians also
became the foundation of a new republic which has become a part
of the community of nations, partnering with the world community
to build a better future.
Today, we pause with them and with Armenians everywhere to
remember the awful events of 1915 with deep admiration for their
contributions which transcend this dark past and give us hope
for the future.