Cong. Friedman Speaks at ANCA Burbank’s Armenian Genocide Commemoration

Cong. Friedman Speaks at ANCA Burbank’s Armenian Genocide Commemoration

By George Christopher Thomas

Van Nuys News Press

BURBANK, CA — U.S. Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30) joined local community members, elected officials, and leaders of the Armenian American community at the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Burbank Chapter’s Annual Armenian Genocide Commemoration. Friedman has spoken at this commemoration event annually since she was elected to serve in Congress and is continuing her work to ensure the Armenian Genocide is recognized.

“In just the past year alone we’ve seen Armenian-genocide denialism from the highest levels of government, which underscores just how important commemorating the Armenian genocide is,” said Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30). “Today is not just an important reminder to remember history, but to stand by the Armenian American community at home while ensuring that the United States serves as a strong ally for the nation of Armenia.”

2026 marks the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. 1.5 million Armenians were killed by the Ottoman Empire in a genocide that has been denied for more than a century. As the representative for California’s 30th Congressional District, home to the largest number of Armenians outside of Armenia, Friedman brought her advocacy of Armenian issues to Congress.

She has spoken out against Vice President JD Vance’s decision to delete a social media post he had published recognizing the Armenian genocide. She also called out the assault of protestors by members of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s security detail

Friedman’s Advocacy for the Armenian American Community Includes:

• Cosponsor of the Azerbaijan Sanctions Review Act (H.R. 5369)
• Co-authored and supported multiple resolutions reaffirming recognition of the Armenian Genocide.
• Secured funding to preserve Armenian cultural heritage.
• Called for an end of military aid to Azerbaijan.
• Advocated for Armenian American history to be included in ethnic studies curriculums.
• Called for the release of the 23 prisoners detained in Azerbaijan.

Friedman was joined by ANCA Chairman Sarkis Simonian, ANCA Board Member Antranik Jarchafjian, Burbank City Councilmembers Nikki Perez and Konstantine Anthony, Burbank USD Board Member Dr. Armond Aghkhanian, Homenetmen scouts, and local Armenian American community members.