Representative Thaddeus G. McCotter (R-Livonia) today will join Armenian Americans from the Detroit area and across the country at the Capitol Hill Observance Commemorating the 88th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide held to pay tribute to the 1.5 million Armenians who lost their lives under the Ottoman Turkish government between 1915-1923.

 

“This tragedy–this crime against humanity–must be remembered by all people of good conscience, lest only evil men remember and be tempted to repeat this horrific lesson of history,” Rep. McCotter stated on the House floor today.

 

Rep. McCotter is a member of the Armenian Caucus and has been actively involved in Armenian issues.  He has also signed a letter to President Bush asking him to properly characterize the atrocities committed in 1915 against the Armenian people as genocide in the President’s April 24th statement.  The letter cites our nation’s role as a leading defender of human rights in the world and recognizes its special responsibility to help ensure the terrible lessons of past genocides are not forgotten.

 

In addition, Rep. McCotter is an original cosponsor of the Genocide Resolution (H.Res.528) introduced in the House today.  Support for the resolution will reinforce our national resolve to ensure the lessons of past genocides are used to help prevent future genocides

“Strengthening the ties between the United States and Armenia will foster existing friendships with Armenian Americans in our own communities,” said McCotter.