Assembly adopts resolution commemorating the Armenian Genocide’s 111th anniversary

The California State Assembly on March 25 adopted House Resolution 97, commemorating the hundred‑eleventh anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and urging recognition of its victims.

Assemblymember Scholz, the resolution’s author, told colleagues the measure “asks us all to not only look back, but to bear witness to the truth,” and said the genocide began on April 24, 1915 and led to the deaths of more than 1,500,000 Armenians. Scholz requested the first roll for coauthors; the Clerk recorded 66 coauthors before the Assembly adopted the resolution by voice vote.

Members from across the chamber spoke in support of the resolution. Assemblymember Harbidian, who identified as a descendant of survivors, described the day as both solemn and a time to celebrate the resilience of Armenian communities in California. Assemblymember Ramos, citing the Native American Legislative Caucus’s support, described genocide as a state‑sanctioned attempt to destroy a group and urged recognition. Several members noted the continuing denial of the events by Turkey and Azerbaijan and framed the resolution as an affirmation of historical memory.

The Assembly observed a prayer offered by Father Yegishe Kasachikyan and a moment of silence as part of a remembrance ceremony that included guest introductions and a flag salute.

The speaker announced the resolution adopted by voice vote and the Assembly returned to business on the daily file.

The resolution is commemorative; no implementing action or appropriation was recorded on the floor.