April 24 marks the date we commemorate the Armenian Genocide. For years, we have recognized this day as a Grant community and held commemoration assemblies. In October, the LAUSD School Board adopted a resolution to mark April 24 in remembrance and stressed the importance of teaching about this genocide to teach LAUSD students about human rights and empower students to help prevent future genocides. Earlier this school year, we watched with the world as Azerbaijan fought a war against Armenia over the Republic of Artsakh. Many members of the Grant community were directly impacted then and now as events continue to unfold, and prisoners of war continue to be held. Despite everything going on with the return to campus, please take some time with your advisories and classes tomorrow to mark the significance of April 24th. I am attaching a few resources you may choose to use and adapt for your needs. This year, in 2021, we look with hope that President Biden will officially recognize the Armenian Genocide on Saturday. I am attaching an article from the Washington Post that provides information. There are many other similar articles available if you'd like to use something else. Representative Adam Schiff has frequently championed the official recognition of the genocide and condemned the attacks on Armenia and Artsakh. Yesterday he read an open letter to President Biden about recognition. As a talking point, you may want to share the video with your students.
On Friday, April 23rd, we held a moment of silence in recognition. Though we are not all on campus together at this time, we paused at 9:15 for respect and in reflection.