The Armenian American community of Maine along with the Armenian National Committee of America-Eastern Region welcomed the presentation of a joint proclamation of the Maine State Legislature commemorating the 97th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

The proclamation recalled the Armenian Genocide and noted the contribution of Armenian Americans, including survivors of the Genocide, to the state.

“Over the past decade we have had a strong relationship with our friends in the state legislature,” noted Gerard Kiladjian, a resident of Portland and one of the individuals who spearheaded the proclamation effort this year.

“We look forward to growing this relationship with our public officials in the years to come so that we can continue to educate them about the Armenian Genocide and its impact today as well as the rich cultural heritage its survivors and the community bring to the Pine State today.”

The proclamation was lead by Maine State Senator Joseph Brannigan, a long-time leader of the commemoration in the Maine State Senate. The proclamation was co-sponsored by Maine State Senator Justin Alfond as well as Maine State Representatives Anne Haskell and Diane Russell.