Biden Uses the Term Genocide

United States President Joe Biden delivered a message on April 24 in observance of the 107th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, reaffirming America's commitment to remain vigilant against the destructive impact of hatred and to build a more peaceful world.

“On April 24, 1915, Ottoman authorities arrested Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople. This marked the beginning of the Armenian Genocide, one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century. Today we remember the one and a half million Armenians who were displaced, killed, or marched to their death during the campaign of extermination, and we mourn the tragic loss of so many lives.”

“In speaking about the Armenian Genocide, we reaffirm our promise to remain vigilant against the destructive impact of hatred in all its manifestations. We again commit to speak out and stop the atrocities that leave lasting scars on our world. At the same time, while mourning all that we lost during the Great Genocide, we must double our efforts to heal and build a better, more peaceful world that we want for our children. A world where human rights are respected, where fanaticism and intolerance do not mark our daily lives, and where people are free everywhere to live their lives with dignity and safety.”

This is also a moment to speak about the strength and resilience of the Armenian people. After enduring genocide, the Armenian people were determined to rebuild their community and culture, often in new homes and countries, including the United States. Armenian-Americans are a vital part of the United States. They make our nation stronger and more dynamic, even as they carry with them the tragic memory of what their ancestors were forced to endure. We acknowledge their pain and respect their history.

Today, 107 years later, the Armenian people continue to honor all Armenians who were lost during the genocide.