On the night of January 19-20, 1990, Soviet authorities staged one of the failing empire's last brutal crimes against their own citizens. Following the intense freedom rallies that has been taking place in Baku by Azerbaijanis who wanted freedom, Soviet troops stormed Baku overnight, killing hundreds of innocent civilians. This tragedy did not break the will and the determination of the Azerbaijani people, but only reinforced their desire for freedom, within very short time, Azerbaijan restored its constitutional independence.

Members of Azerbaijan Society of America, remembers this day very clearly, living in the United States, we heard about the tragedy on tv, we read about it in the newspapers. We were helpless, could not help the citizens of our homeland. Instead, we held the biggest demonstration in the front of United Nations in New York City, demanding justice.

World Azerbaijanis will always remember the brave martyrs who lost their lives for Azerbaijan's fight for freedom. We will always defend and protect the honor of Azerbaijan here in the United States.

Strong, Independent Azerbaijan is Forever!