April 21, 1987

PROCLAIMATION

State of New York

Executive Chamber

On April 24, 1915, some 300 Armenian religious leaders, intellectuals and notables were arrested in Constantinople and systematically murdered. This marked the beginning for the deportation and massacres of one and one-half million Armenians then living in the Turkish Ottoman Empire.

Today Armenians throughout the world are commemorating one of the darkest hours of Armenian history - the 72nd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

New Yorkers join our fellow citizens of Armenian heritage in marking this observance and in recalling the terrible events of 1915 in the hope that the conscience of the world can bring an end to all human suffering and a reawakening of the sense of justice.

It is fitting that we also pay tribute to the survivors of the Armenian tragedy, especially those who have made their homes in this State and Nation. The regeneration of Armenian life throughout the world and the may social, cultural, economic and religious contributions of the Armenian community are testimony to a people's spirit and courage.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mario M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim April 24, 1987, as

ARMENIAN MARTYRS' DAY

in New York State.

GIVEN under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-first day of April in the year one thousand nine hundred and eighty-seven.

(signed)
Mario M. Cuomo

(signed)
Secretary to the Governor