Kansas becomes 38th state to recognize Armenian Genocide

Kansas becomes 38th state to recognize Armenian Genocide

28.04.2005

YEREVAN (YERKIR) – Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas has issued a
proclamation marking the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide,
making the Sunflower State the 38th U.S. state to go on record
commemorating this crime against humanity, reported the Armenian
National Committee of America (ANCA).

“Armenian Americans very much appreciate Governor Sebelius’ leadership
in adding Kansas to the list of U.S. states that have formally
recognized the Armenian Genocide,” said Aram Hamparian, Executive
Director of the ANCA.

“We are hopeful that the growing pressure on the White House – from
state governments and U.S. legislators – will impress upon the
President that he should not stand in the way of Congressional
legislation marking this crime against humanity.”

In the proclamation, issued on April 20th, Gov. Sebelius proclaims
April 24th, 2005, “Armenian Remembrance Day.” She notes that April
24th marks “the ninetieth anniversary of the genocide and deportations
of countless Armenians in Ottoman Turkey; this great sorrow continues
to haunt not only Armenians but also their neighbors in Turkey.”

Governor Sebelius goes on to “salute the modern nation of Armenia, and
Armenians everywhere,” noting that “Kansas is grateful for the
contributions of Armenian Americans who have chosen Kansas as their
adopted home. They have employed wisdom, courage and centuries old
traditions to enrich the character of our state through their
leadership in business, agriculture, academia, government and the
arts.”