Schakowsky Statement Observing Assyrian Remembrance Day

EVANSTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement commemorating Assyrian Remembrance Day:

"On this day 89 years ago, forces from the then-Kingdom of Iraq began systematic assaults on Assyrian villages, killing as many as six thousand innocent people and displacing many more. August 7th will forever be remembered by the Assyrian community, and I join them today in honoring the memory of all Assyrians who have fallen victim to persecution, violence, displacement, and genocide.

"Though observed on the anniversary of the Simele Massacre, Assyrian Remembrance Day is used to honor the victims of all genocidal acts and mass atrocities committed against the Assyrian people in modern history. The day also underscores our shared responsibility to seek justice for the atrocities committed against them.

"I am inspired daily by the resilience of the Assyrian community, and I am so proud to represent a large Assyrian American population in the 9th Congressional District of Illinois. I stand in solidarity with them as we recognize the anniversary of the Simele massacre and the Assyrian Genocide. I will continue to work each and every day to protect religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq and around the world from violence and persecution."

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