BC Legislature hosts Armenian Genocide commemoration, speakers link 1915 to Artsakh displacement

(Horizon Media / VANCOUVER) — A commemorative event marking the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide was held at the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, jointly organized by the Armenian National Committee of Canada (Western Region) and the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Vancouver “Arshavir Shiragian” Chapter.

The event brought together community members, organizational representatives, clergy, and provincial officials to honour the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians killed in 1915, while also drawing attention to contemporary developments affecting Armenians.

Among those in attendance were British Columbia Minister Adrian Dix and MLAs Reann Gasper and Rob Botterell, who joined the Armenian community in recognizing the historical significance of April 24, 1915.

Speakers at the event emphasized that genocide is a process that unfolds over time, often beginning with dehumanization and denial before escalating into large-scale violence. Several remarks focused on drawing parallels between the events of 1915 and the forced displacement of Armenians from Artsakh. Speakers described these developments as part of a broader pattern, raising concerns about the long-term security and preservation of Armenian communities and heritage. Special reference was also made to the imperative of preserving Armenian cultural and religious heritage in Artsakh, particularly citing the recent destruction of the Holy Mother of God Church in Stepanakert.

Representatives from the AYF Vancouver “Arshavir Shiragian” Chapter, including Mher Asaian and Seza Korajian, addressed attendees, focusing on the role of younger generations in preserving historical memory and advocating for justice. Their remarks referenced the experiences of Armenians displaced across different periods, from genocide survivors to more recent refugees from Syria and Artsakh.

Rev. Fr. Vartan Tashjian, pastor of the St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church of Vancouver, spoke about the importance of faith and community institutions in maintaining cultural identity and continuity.

The program concluded with the raising of the flags of Armenia and Artsakh, symbolizing the Armenian community’s continuity and resilience.