Armenian National Committee – Western Region
104 North Belmont Street, Suite 200
Glendale, California 91206
Phone: 818.500.1918
Fax: 818.246.7353
ancwr@anca.org

PRESS RELEASE

January 28, 2009
Contact: Ani Garabedian

Mayor Villaraigosa Remembers Armenian Genocide Survivor Ghazaros Kademian

Los Angeles, CA – In a statement released yesterday, Los Angeles Mayor
Antonio Villaraigosa honored the memory of Ghazaros Kademian, a
longtime ANCA supporter and one of the oldest remaining survivors of
the Armenian Genocide. Kademian passed away on January 24, 2009 at
his home in Glendale, California. Kademian, who was born in the
historic city of Zeitoun in 1907, lived a life full of faith and
dedication.

Villaraigosa recalled the remarkable life of Kademian and stressed the
importance of recognition of the Armenian Genocide. During his tenure
in the State Assembly and as Los Angeles Mayor, Villaraigosa has
repeatedly demonstrated his steadfast support for the Armenian
community and has been a consistent supporter of Armenian Genocide
recognition resolutions.

The full text of the statement is included below.

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Mayor of Los Angeles Antonio Villaraigosa

January 27, 2009

"Ghazaros Kademian’s story is one of survival and strength, courage
and conviction, passion and purpose. He emerged from one of the
darkest chapters of human history and worked to shed light on the
tragedy of the Armenian genocide.

"We were all blessed by his spirit, commitment, dedication and
service. And I hope his passing serves as a reminder of our collective
obligation to honor the memory of those who perished and recognize the
facts of past atrocities.

"As Ghazaros looks down upon each of us, may his life and legacy
inspire us all to continue exposing the truth about the horrors of
history and pursuing justice for future generations."