April 20, 2005
TO THE PEOPLE OF KANSAS, GREETINGS:
WHEREAS, today is a day for Kansas to join in remembrance
of a human tragedy that stands as a reminder for us to strive
for a future of peace, prosperity and freedom for all; and
WHEREAS, today marks the ninetieth anniversary of the
genocide and deportations of countless Armenians in Ottoman
Turkey; this great sorrow continues to haunt not only Armenians
but also their neighbors in Turkey; and
WHEREAS, we are reminded that the suffering of the Armenian
people from 1915-1923 was a tragedy which the world should not
forget and applauds efforts of Armenia and Turkey to come
together to consider these events and their significance; and
WHEREAS, Kansas also wishes these countries success as they
build on their recent achievements and encourages them to
continue to work together in a spirit of hope and understanding;
and
WHEREAS, Kansas remembers those who perished and suffered,
we also salute the modern nation of Armenia, and Armenians
everywhere. Kansas is grateful for the contributions of
Armenian Americans who have chosen Kansas as their adopted home.
They have employed wisdom, courage and centuries old traditions
to enrich the character of our state through their leadership in
business, agriculture, academia, government and the arts; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, KATHLEEN SEBELIUS, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE
OF KANSAS, on behalf of the people of Kansas, send solemn wishes
to the Armenian people on this day of remembrance, and do hereby
proclaim April 24, 2005, as
Armenian Remembrance Day
in Kansas, and urge all citizens to join in this
observance. Our state and the Armenian nation stand together,
with our partnership of peace, prosperity and freedom.
DONE: At the Capitol in Topeka under the Great Seal of the
State this 20th day of April, A.D. 2005
BY THE GOVERNOR
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