The Armenian Hiking Society invites community members, friends, and allies to come together
on April 25th at 9:00 AM at Brand Park in Glendale, California, for our “Hike to Heal”, a
gathering rooted in remembrance, reflection, and solidarity in honor of the Armenian Genocide.
Together, we honor the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished beginning in 1915
under the Ottoman Empire. This tragedy remains one of the most profound examples of
systematic violence against a people, and its legacy continues to shape Armenian identity and
global human rights advocacy.
Recognized by historians and many nations, the Armenian Genocide was marked by mass
deportations, forced marches, and widespread atrocities. Remembering it is not only a tribute to
those lost, but a commitment to preventing such crimes from happening again.
In that same spirit, we must also acknowledge the 2023 events in Artsakh. After months of
blockade along the Lachin Corridor, more than 120,000 Armenians faced severe shortages of
food and medicine before being forcibly displaced in September 2023.
International observers described the situation as a severe humanitarian crisis, with the forced
displacement of the Armenian population widely recognized as ethnic cleansing and a violation
of international law, as families were forced to leave behind generations-old communities.
We call upon the international community to recognize the Armenian Genocide, address the
crisis in Artsakh, support displaced Armenians, protect human rights and cultural heritage, and
ensure accountability for violations of international law.
As we remember the past, we must also confront the present. Silence and inaction risk enabling
history to repeat itself. By standing together, we reaffirm our shared commitment to justice,
dignity, and peace.
Event Details:
Hike to Heal
April 25, 2026
9:00 AM
Brand Park, Glendale, CA
