April 20, 1990

STATE OF WASHINGTON

PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, beginning in 1915, the Ottoman Empire initiated a reign of terror that ultimately resulted in the massacre of 1.5 million Armenians in eight years; and

WHEREAS, this systematic program of genocide and forced deportation was undertaken with the intent of annihilating the entire Armenian race; and

WHEREAS, this year marks the 75th anniversary of this tragic episode in history and it is appropriate that we become aware of the atrocities that were committed against the Armenian people so that future generations will learn from the past; and

WHEREAS, this event in history has just finally begun to be incorporated into Holocaust, genocide and human rights studies in schools throughout our nation; and

WHEREAS, while for many the memories are sad and painful in recalling the tragedy and inhumanity of the Armenian Genocide, we can help future generations better understand its impact and magnitude while ensuring that such an occurrence will never happen again;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Booth Garner, Governor of the State of Washington, do hereby proclaim April 24, 1990, as a

Day of Remembrance

in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and in remembrance of the innocent victims of this tragedy, and I urge all citizens to join in this important observance.

Signed, this 20th day of April, 1990

(SIGNED)
Governor Booth Gardner