Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Armenian Genocide Hr25 topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Assembly adopts resolution marking 110th anniversary of Armenian genocide
Summary
The California State Assembly adopted House Resolution 25 on April 24, 2025, commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Armenian genocide and expressing solidarity with Armenian communities; the resolution drew multiple speeches from members across the aisle and was adopted after co-authors were added.
The California State Assembly adopted House Resolution 25 on April 24, 2025, recognizing the 110th anniversary of the Armenian genocide and expressing solidarity with Armenian Americans, Assemblymember Harbidian said on the floor in Sacramento.
Harbidian, the author and chair of the Armenian caucus, told colleagues the resolution honors the memory of those killed and calls for continued recognition of the historical facts. "This is presented every year on this floor, and it is my honor to do it this year," he said, and recounted the historical account of mass killings and displacement in 1915–1923.
Members from both parties spoke in support of the measure, describing the resolution as an affirmation of historical truth and a signal of solidarity with Armenian communities in California. Assemblymember Tangipa said the measure recognized the ongoing impact on Armenian families and communities; Assemblymember Mark Gonzales, representing Montebello, noted local memorials and annual gatherings; Assemblymember Haney called the atrocities a "crime against humanity" and urged unequivocal recognition. Several members described recent events in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and continued concerns about detainees and displaced civilians.
The clerk opened the roll for co-authors; members added 70 co-authors "without objection." The Assembly then took a voice vote. "The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted," the presiding officer announced.
After adoption, Harbidian introduced dozens of Armenian Americans and community organizations in the gallery, including elected local officials and representatives of the Armenian National Committee of America and the Armenian Assembly of America. The Assembly observed a moment of silence and concluded the commemoration before returning to legislative business.
Why it matters: California has one of the largest Armenian American populations in the country and numerous local memorials and civic organizations that mark April 24 annually. Members framed the resolution as both remembrance and a statement against denial of historical atrocities.
The Assembly moved on to the remainder of its daily file following the ceremony.
