Obama Refuses to Recognize Armenian Genocide
By Asbarez
Apr 24th, 2010
WASHINGTON-President Obama, once again, refused to recognize the
Armenian genocide in his annual message on this the 95th anniversary
of the genocide. This marks the second year that he has broken his
campaign pledge to properly recognize the genocide.
Below is Obama’s statement:
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THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2010
Statement of President Barack Obama on Armenian Remembrance Day
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.