NEW YORK. – The New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg issued a proclamation on the occasion of the commemoration of the 97th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide perpetrated by the Ottoman Turkey in 1915.

“Every year, people around the world and across our city come together to observe the anniversary of the beginning of the Armenian Genocide. This year marks the 97th anniversary of this horrific event, which claimed nearly 1.5 million lives, and it is our responsibility to pay tribute to all those who suffered.

We are honored to join the Armenian National Committee of New York to reflect on this solemn occasion, and review our promise to prevent such violence from ever happening again,” the message reads. 

“By understanding the past, we are taking an important step toward a future free from discrimination and intolerance. This anniversary is a valuable opportunity not only to remember all those whose lives were taken, but also to celebrate all of the tremendous contributions our Armenian Community has made to New York.”

The world commemorated on April 24 the 97th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the first genocide of the 20th century.

The fact of the Armenian Genocide is recognized by many states. It was first recognized in 1965 by Uruguay. In general, the Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey has already been recognized by Russia, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Lithuania, Slovakia, Switzerland, Sweden, Greece, Cyprus, Lebanon, Canada, Venezuela, Argentina, and 42 U.S. states.