Armenian National Committee of Canada
3401 Olivar-Asselin
Montreal, Quebec
H4J 1L5
April 21st, 2004
Contact persons: Robert Kouyoumdjian: (514) 336-7095
Shant Karabajak: (514) 334-1299
Aris Babikian : (416) 497-8972
PRESS RELEASE
CANADA RECOGNIZES THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
The House of Commons adopts bill M-380 presented by Mrs. Madeleine
Dalhpond-Guiral
Ottawa, April 21st, 2004 – The House of Commons adopted a motion
recognizing the Armenian Genocide by a majority of 153 votes. The
motion was presented by Mrs. Madeleine Dalphond-Guiral (M.P. Laval
Center) and seconded by Mr. Sarkis Assadourian (M.P. Brampton-Center),
Mr. Jason Kenney (M.P. Calgary-South-East) and Mrs. Alexa McDonough
(M.P. Halifax).
The passing of this resolution was the culmination of a 25 year
process which encompassed similar resolutions being passed by city
councils, provinces, and the Canadian Senate (July 13, 2002).
“This is a victory for truth and justice.” stated Dr. Girair
Basmadjian, president of the Armenian National Committee of Canada.
“Implicated in this course of action for over two decades, the ANCC
has constituted the driving force behind the process towards the
adoption of this motion,” commented Dr. G. Basmadjian. “The
accomplishment of this task was made possible through the mobilization
as well as the implication of our grass roots members who made sure
that all Members of Parliament were aware of the importance of t his
issue for our community. »
Canada now joins a long list of nations including France, Switzerland
and Russia which have recognize the Armenian Genocide of 1915.