Community Commemorates 111th Anniversary of Armenian Genocide at Montebello Martyrs

BY PETER B. HAIG

The 111th Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, organized by the United Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee, brought together more than 1,400 participants in Montebello, CA.

The program opened with remarks by UAGCC Board Member and Treasurer, Peter B. Haig, who welcomed attendees. He was followed by the Scouts of Homenetmen and AGBU School.

The national anthems of the United States, Armenia, and Artsakh were performed by David Samuelian and the students of Ferrahian. Haig then introduced former Montebello Mayor Jack Hadjinian, who served as Master of Ceremonies.

Clergy representing all Armenian denominations (Apostolic, Catholic, and Evangelical) then offered prayers for the souls of the 1.5 million martyrs. The program continued with remarks from public officials. Montebello Mayor Georgina Tamayo welcomed attendees and expressed her support for the Armenian community. Congresswoman Judy Chu delivered remarks affirming her continued support for both the Armenian community in Southern California and the Republic of Armenia. State Senator Bob Archuleta followed with an address highlighting Armenian contributions to California and the American dream, while also recognizing efforts to designate the Montebello monument as a California State Historic Landmark. Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis spoke of her ongoing support, including securing $100,000 for the Montebello Armenian Center, and presented an award to UAGCC recognizing the committee’s service in preserving Armenian heritage and contributing to American civic life.

Student speakers from five Armenian schools (AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian, Alex Pilibos, Ferrahian, Mesrobian, and Chamlian) delivered inspiring messages,

The keynote address was delivered by Roupen Avsharian, Esq., whose powerful remarks emphasized remembrance, justice, and the ongoing pursuit of recognition. His message was that the new Armenian generation, especially in the diaspora and in the United States, must shift from symbolic remembrance to consistent, strategic action. This includes active civic and political engagement, staying informed, and prioritizing unity over internal divisions to strengthen collective influence. A major focus is reinforcing and professionalizing advocacy through organizations like the ANCA, ensuring coordinated, results-driven lobbying. At the same time, securing a strong and stable Armenia, where Armenians can live safely without fear of persecution, is essential. Within this framework, the diaspora must serve as a guardian by educating future generations, advocating effectively, and continuing efforts toward global recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Then, Glendale’s newly elected Mayor, Ardy Kassakhian, delivered the final address among dignitaries, reinforcing themes of unity and perseverance.

The cultural program featured a performance by Hamazkayin’s Nayirian Choir, led by their young conductor, Lousine Meliksetyan.

The commemoration concluded with the traditional wreath-laying ceremony at the monument.