James M. Jeffords: “April 24 marks the 79th anniversary of one of history's greatest atrocities: The slaughter of more than 1 million…”

“April 24 marks the 79th anniversary of one of history's greatest atrocities: The slaughter of more than 1 million Armenians. It is a day on which we mourn the victims and honor their memory. But it is also a day on which we commemorate the triumph of human courage and spirit over adversity. For this attempt to annihilate a people did not succeed, nor did it quell the Armenian desire for freedom and justice. The Armenian people, with perseverance and pride, have maintained their cultural and historical identity despite the oppression they endured. Survivors of the massacre have not let the flame of freedom be extinguished. Their children and grandchildren, many of whom live in America, have continued to make positive contributions to the world community. And many now are building the foundations of the free and independent Armenian nation which has emerged from the ashes of the Soviet Union. Today we call attention to the tragic events of the past in order to draw lessons for the future.”