"Today as we join to respect the victims of the genocide, first we give thanks to God for all those who respect the victims," Derderian said in his statement.
He went on to speak of the importance of remembering the genocide and all those who died during the event.
An estimated 1.5 million Armenians were killed between the years of 1915 and 1918 by the Ottoman Empire, speakers said Monday. This genocide — which is internationally remembered on April 24 — is denied by the Turkish government, sources said.
"It's important for us to remember and it's also a demand for justice. We cannot heal until we have the acceptance that it happened," said Dr. Mardi Mihranian, a physician at the hospital.
Daniel Decker, another speaker at Glendale Memorial's ceremony, also attended the Glendale High commemoration.
Though not Armenian himself, Decker said he was "an Armenian by choice" and stood with them in calling for recognition of the genocide.
"I think it's very important for this issue to be settled," he said. "It is time for Turkey to make things right."
As for the students who came together at Glendale High, he admired their spirit.
"I'm inspired that the Armenian youth have come together to support this cause," he said.
Hosted by Glendale Unified School District President Greg Krikorian, the commemoration highlighted students from schools around the city.
The event was put on by the Armenian Clubs of Hoover High School, Glendale High School, Clark Magnet High School, Crescenta Valley High School and Roosevelt Middle School.
"This event raises the awareness every year that this happened in our history and that it is not properly recognized by Turkey," said Vahe Bozoyan, a Glendale High teacher and advisor to the school's Armenian Club. "It also puts out a positive side — that we've survived. And if we keep the event alive, then we will always remember."
ROBERT S. HONG covers City Hall. He may be reached at (818) 637-3235 or by e-mail at robert.honglatimes.com.
