Bob Franks: “I rise today to commemorate the 79th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Beginning on April 24, 1915, hundreds of…”

“I rise today to commemorate the 79th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Beginning on April 24, 1915, hundreds of Armenian religious, political and intellectual leaders were rounded up, exiled and murdered. The genocide of the Armenian people by the Turkish Ottoman Empire continued for nine years and claimed over 1,500,000 lives. Another 500,000 Armenians were forced to flee their homeland, some of whom formed the origins of the Armenian community in our country. Therefore, it is imperative that we, as the elected representatives of the people of the United States, recognize and commemorate the Genocide of the Armenian people. In addition, it is incumbent upon us to speak out about messages of hate and bigotry on the rise in this country. As we have learned in this country and witnessed abroad at least twice this century, hate must not be allowed to grow unchecked. We must continue to denounce messages of hate and bigotry and promote tolerance within our communities. Mr. Speaker, the commemoration of this tragic episode in world history is vitally important. I urge my colleagues to join me in commemorating the Genocide of the Armenian people.”