Los Angeles City Council honors Armenian genocide victims, urges vigilance against hate

Councilmember David Nazarian opened a remembrance at the April 24 Los Angeles City Council meeting, reading the names of people he said are detained in Artsakh and linking the 111th anniversary of the Armenian genocide to current concerns over displacement and marginalization. Nazarian said the period of remembrance should also prompt action “so that it never is repeated.”

Capri Maddox, described in remarks as general manager of the city’s Civil Rights Department, said the department’s hate‑crime prevention campaign is rooted in "prevention, education, and accountability" and pledged the department would stand with the Armenian community. Maddox noted the city’s large Armenian population and said public education and prevention work remain central to stopping marginalization before it escalates into violence.

The council also recognized local Armenian contributions to sports and culture, introducing Armenian‑heritage athletes and public figures. UFC fighter Arman accepted a token of recognition and dedicated the honor to victims and survivors of the genocide. Multiple councilmembers spoke in support of remembrance and solidarity, linking historical memory with a responsibility to oppose present‑day denial and demonization.

The council’s remarks did not include any formal policy vote tied to the commemoration; the session continued with scheduled public comment and other agenda items. Councilmembers said the remembrance aims to keep historical memory visible in city government and to support affected neighborhoods across Los Angeles.