Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 24, 2026, as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 62 co-sponsors

Designate April 24, 2026 as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in New York to honor victims, educate on human rights, and oppose genocide denial.

ADOPTED

Purpose and Intent

To memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 24, 2026, as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the State of New York.

Emphasizes remembrance and education about the Armenian Genocide (1915–1923) and broader genocidal violence endured by Armenians, Assyrians, and Greeks under the Ottoman Empire.

Articulates a commitment to condemn genocide denial and to promote awareness of human rights history as a means to prevent future atrocities.

Notes New York’s Armenian-American community and their contributions to the state.

Key Provisions and Provisions’ Effects

As a memorial resolution, the bill:

Proclaims the intention that Governor Hochul should issue a proclamation designating April 24, 2026, as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in New York.

Frames April 24, 1915 as the globally recognized start of the Armenian Genocide, marking the arrest and execution of Armenian leaders.

Documents historical context of Armenian persecution, including prior massacres (Hamidian 1894-1896, Adana 1909) and lasting impacts through 1923.

Declares that the Legislative Body deplores denial of the Armenian Genocide and asserts concerns about impunity for crimes against humanity.

References the United States’ historical recognition of the Armenian Genocide (1951 statement to the ICJ, Reagan 1981 proclamation, and related Congressional resolutions).

Acknowledges humanitarian relief and refugee aid provided by Americans during and after the genocide.

Highlights the presence and contributions of New York’s Armenian-American community (population approx. 25,000 in New York) and lists notable community institutions and cultural landmarks.

Encourages the inclusion of human-rights and genocide education in school curricula to prevent recurrence of genocidal acts.

Who/What Is Affected

Statewide: New York Governor (to issue the proclamation) and the broader public, particularly Armenian-American residents and others interested in genocide remembrance.

Educational and cultural sectors: While not mandating policy changes, the resolution supports education about human rights and genocide history in curricula.

Community: Armenians and Assyrian/Greekdescended populations in New York, along with organizations and institutions named in the resolution (e.g., Armenian Center of Columbia University, Armenian Diocese and Prelacy, Armenian Mission and cultural groups).

Procedural and Timeline Details

The resolution actions reflect a formal request to the Governor to issue a proclamation for Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day on April 24, 2026.

April 24, 2026 marks the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide commencement.

Passed by the Senate and scheduled for calendar consideration; it was reported and adopted on April 21, 2026.

Transmission: A copy of the resolution would be sent to Governor Hochul.

Notable Context

The document situates the Armenian Genocide within a broader historical frame of persecution and displacement of Armenians, Assyrians, and Greeks within the Ottoman Empire.

It positions remembrance as a tool to combat denial and to educate future generations about preventing genocide.

The resolution cites a historic trajectory of U.S. recognition and engagement with genocide-related issues.

Bill