Queens: Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day

Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day was April 24, 2026. It is held annually on the 24th to honor, mourn, and pay respects to the 1.5 million people murdered by the Ot­toman Empire starting on April 24, 1915. It is also a day to never forget the horrible criminal, murderous activity perpetrated on people of a specific ethnic background for prejudicial and political purposes. As a day of remembrance, it is recognized throughout many Armenian communities in the United States as well as throughout the world with ceremonies, proclamations, and homages to those that were taken away from us. This year marks the 111th anniversary of the genocide. Its significance should not be for­gotten.

The lessons should be learned so that we do not repeat the horrors of the past against anyone or any group. The date is marked with official statements honoring the memory of those lost in that terrible time. To foster further appreciation of the Armenian culture, many take the opportunity in the memorials to highlight the contributions of Armenian Americans. In New York City and in Queens specifically, as well in different areas of the United States and other parts of the world, there are events, marches, and vigils that occur annually in communities with large Armenian populations. According to the history books, the date, April 24, was chosen because it marks the day in 1915 when Ottoman authorities arrested Armen­ian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople and the genocide took hold as innocent Armenians were killed because of their nationality and origin. While we still suffer the effects of genocide 111 years later, we cannot forget the significance of this day as we try to create a better world where no one is targeted because of their race, color, creed, or background, etc. Specifically, on this date, we honor the Armenians and their population throughout the world that were forced to evacuate their homes and their country. And we most especially honor the memory of those killed in the genocide of 1915.