In a powerful act of remembrance and unity, Armenian Mesrobian School’s secondary students participated in a commemorative march to the Armenian Genocide Martyrs Monument, honoring the 1.5 million victims of the Armenian Genocide.
Beginning at campus, students walked approximately 3.7 miles through the streets of Montebello, carrying Armenian flags and symbols of remembrance. The march served as both a physical and symbolic journey, connecting the younger generation to the enduring legacy of their ancestors.
The destination, the Armenian Genocide Martyrs Monument, stands not only as one of the most significant Armenian Genocide memorials in the United States, but is also recognized as a historical landmark, further solidifying its importance in preserving memory and educating future generations.
Upon arrival, students gathered for a formal program featuring guest speakers and community leaders.
Among them was Alique Artinian, a proud Mesrobian alumna from the Class of 2022, who will be graduating from University of California, Los Angeles this year. Artinian delivered heartfelt remarks centered on identity, resilience, and the responsibility of Armenian youth to carry forward the truth.
Also addressing attendees was Garen Jinbashian of the Armenian National Committee of America, who emphasized the importance of advocacy and the continued pursuit of justice and recognition.
Principal Lena Garabedian also spoke, reinforcing the significance of remembrance through lived experience and education.“Today, our students did not simply learn history, they walked it. Each step taken was a testament to the strength of our ancestors and a promise that their story will never be forgotten.”
The ceremony concluded with a solemn closing prayer offered by Shavarsh Karapetyan, the newly appointed priest of Holy Cross Cathedral, who will soon be ordained. His blessing brought a spiritual close to the program, uniting faith and remembrance in a moment of collective reflection.
Students then approached the monument to lay wreaths, offering a final tribute in honor of the martyrs. The act reflected a deep sense of reverence, unity, and continuity, ensuring that the memory of the Armenian Genocide lives on through the next generation.
Through this meaningful initiative, Armenian Mesrobian School reaffirmed its commitment to cultivating not only academic excellence, but a profound sense of cultural identity, historical awareness, and civic responsibility.
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