On September 2, 2023, a powerful gathering of Armenian Americans took place on Artsakh Street in Glendale, California. Over 500 passionate men, women, and children came together to voice their solidarity with the people of Artsakh and their unyielding right to self-determination. This event, held on the occasion of the Artsakh Republic Independence Day, served as a testament to the unwavering support of the Armenian-American diaspora for the people of Artsakh and sent a strong message to President Joe Biden’s Administration that it must stop a second Armenian Genocide by Azerbaijan.
The rally on Artsakh Street was a display of unity, resilience, and determination. Armenians from various backgrounds, generations, and walks of life converged to demand an end to Azerbaijan’s illegal blockade and solidarity with the people of Artsakh against Azerbaijan’s existential threats to their security. The occasion marked not only a celebration of Artsakh’s independence but also a call for justice and self-determination.
Several prominent figures lent their voices in support, addressing the crowd and reaffirming their commitment to Artsakh. Among the distinguished speakers were Congresswoman Judy Chu, California State Senator Portantino, Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman, former Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer, Glendale City Council members Elen Asatryan and Ardashes Kassakhian, and a representative from Congressman Schiff’s office. Their presence underscored the importance of the Armenian-American community’s engagement in advocating for a just resolution to the Artsakh conflict.
Congresswoman Judy Chu, a staunch advocate for Armenian issues in Congress, expressed her unwavering support for the people of Artsakh. She emphasized the importance of recognizing Artsakh’s right to self-determination and called for sustained efforts to ensure a peaceful and fair resolution to the conflict.
California State Senator Portantino echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for the international community to acknowledge the people of Artsakh and their quest for self-determination. He pledged to continue working at the state level to raise awareness about the Artsakh issue.
Former Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer shared his perspective on the importance of justice and accountability. He called for those responsible for the atrocities committed in Artsakh to be held accountable, emphasizing that justice is an essential component of a lasting peace.
Glendale City Council members Elen Asatryan and Ardashes Kassakhian reaffirmed the city’s commitment to supporting the Armenian-American community and its efforts to raise awareness about the Artsakh conflict. They encouraged local engagement and activism, emphasizing that change starts at the grassroots level.
A representative from Congressman Schiff’s office conveyed the congressman’s unwavering support for the Armenian cause and his commitment to advocating for a fair resolution to the Artsakh conflict.
Garo Madenlian, Esq. offered remarks on behalf of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western United States of America. His speech is posted on Oragark in its entirety.
The gathering on Artsakh Street was not only a moment of reflection and solidarity but also a call to action. Armenian Americans, along with their allies, pledged to continue raising awareness, advocating to stop the Cycle of Genocide that continues in Artsakh today, and supporting the people of Artsakh in their quest for self-determination.
As the sun set on Artsakh Street in Glendale, the message was clear: the Armenian-American community remains steadfast in its support for Artsakh and its unwavering commitment to seeing a just and lasting resolution to the conflict. The rally served as a powerful reminder that the bonds of solidarity run deep, transcending borders and generations. It was a day of hope, unity, and determination, signaling to the world that the struggle for Artsakh’s self-determination continues, stronger than ever.
Contributor
