Irvine Great Park Board approves schematic design for Armenian Genocide Memorial

The Irvine Great Park Board approved the schematic design for the Armenian Genocide Memorial at Irvine’s Great Park, the ANCA Orange County Chapter reports.

This significant milestone marks the formal beginning of what will become the first public Armenian Genocide Memorial in Orange County, honoring the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished during the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.

The approved design, developed by the Orange County Armenian Genocide Memorial Committee, symbolizes both the profound loss and enduring hope of the Armenian people. At the heart of the memorial will be a powerful sculpture of a mother holding her child, representing resilience and the continuation of life amidst immense suffering. The memorial will also incorporate culturally significant elements, including a crane, symbolizing longing for the Armenian homeland, and a forget-me-not flower, the global symbol of Armenian Genocide remembrance.

“This is a momentous achievement for our community, and we are deeply grateful to the Irvine Great Park Board and the Irvine City Council for their support,” said Dr. Kev Abazajian, Chair of the OC Armenian Genocide Memorial Committee. “This memorial will stand as a lasting testament to the resilience of the Armenian people and serve as a space for reflection and education for future generations.”

The total budget for the Armenian Genocide Memorial is estimated between $600,000 and $900,000, with all expenses to be funded through donations raised by the OC Armenian Genocide Memorial Committee. Fundraising efforts will take place over three years, beginning in 2025, with a goal of raising $200,000 to $300,000 annually.