Armenian-americans - Anc

[Ashot]

Senator Jackie Speier to be a special guest at ANC of San Francisco / Bay Area "Hye Tad Evening"

 

Bay Area Armenian National Committee (ANC SF) welcomes Congressional candidate Jackie Speier and ANCA Washington Headquarters' Executive Director Aram Hamparian as its Special Guests at this year's "Hye Tad Evening" which will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at the Armenian Community Center in San Francisco.

 

The annual "Hye Tad Evening" is an opportunity for the ANC to update the community on the status of political issues of concern to Armenian-Americans, to introduce public figures who have made a lasting impact on those issues, and to provide a progress report on the projects being pursued in the community.

 

Former California State Senator Jackie Speier recently announced her candidacy for California's 12th US congressional district, which encompasses San Mateo County and part of San Francisco. The district has been represented by Congressman Tom Lantos since 1980. Lantos will not seek re-election in November. Speier has served as San Mateo County Supervisor for six years and as a State Assemblymember. Throughout her career, the Bay Area ANC has fostered a strong working relationship with Sen. Speier, who has been a strong advocate for issues of concern to Armenian-Americans.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

Edited February 8, 2008 by Ashot

[Ashot]

ANC-PAC endorses Armenian American woman running for Congress

 

The Political Action Committee (ANC-PAC) has endorsed Jackie Speier in her campaign to serve as the next U.S. Representative for California's 12th Congressional District. Speier, who is of Armenian descent, has served as a County Supervisor, State Assemblymember and State Senator in a distinguished career that has spanned over three decades. Since 1980, California's 12th Congressional District has been represented by Tom Lantos (D-CA), who recently announced that he would not seek reelection in 2008 due to a diagnosis of cancer.

 

"We know that Jackie will be an effective fighter in Congress for her constituents," said ANC-PAC supporter Roxanne Makasdjian. "She's dedicated to human rights and democracy, and she knows the challenges that Armenian Americans face in addressing U.S. policy in the Caucasus and genocide denial on Capitol Hill."

 

"The Armenian National Committee of America have made phenomenal strides in educating Congress on the importance of recognizing the Armenian Genocide," said Speier. "I value my longstanding friendship with the ANC, and look forward to promoting in Congress all the successful measures I have pursued on behalf of Armenian Americans in the CA State Legislature," she added.

 

Jackie Speier's career as a public servant began in the 1980s when she won a seat on the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors. After serving for six years as a San Mateo County Supervisor, she made a successful bid for the State Assembly and in 1998 was elected to the State Senate. In 2006 she attempted to gain the California Democratic Party's nomination for Lieutenant Governor, but was narrowly defeated by John Garamendi.

 

The San Jose Mercury News has previously reported that “no one comes close to Speier’s remarkable record of getting substantive legislation signed into law.” In fact, her legislative success over the years was once rated “Ruthian” by the Los Angeles Times, a reference to baseball's prolific homerun king Babe Ruth. According to state legislative records, as a member of the California State Assembly and later State Senate, Speier authored over 300 bills that have been signed into law by Democratic and Republican Governors.

 

The 12th Congressional District, which is home to an active Armenian American community, encompasses San Mateo County and a portion of San Francisco. The district is located just to the south of California's 8th Congressional District, which is represented by Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the House.

 

Speier has been a longtime friend to many Armenian American activists in the San Francisco-Bay Area. She will be honored by the San Francisco-Bay Area Armenian National Committee chapter on March 8th at their annual banquet. In 2005, Speier was honored in Los Angeles by the Armenian National Committee - Western Region as the organization's Woman of the Year.

 

Among her legislative achievements on Armenian issues, Speier co-authored a bill, that was later signed into law, allowing California families of victims of the Armenian Genocide to bring claims arising out of the failure of banks to pay or turn over their deposited or looted assets.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[phantom22]

A very good moderate candidate, an Armenian-American woman who is devoted to Armenian issues. Being part-Jew as well

will help her (her paternal grandfather). Her mother is Armenian.

 

 

Senator Jackie Speier to be a special guest at ANC of San Francisco / Bay Area "Hye Tad Evening"

 

Bay Area Armenian National Committee (ANC SF) welcomes Congressional candidate Jackie Speier and ANCA Washington Headquarters' Executive Director Aram Hamparian as its Special Guests at this year's "Hye Tad Evening" which will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at the Armenian Community Center in San Francisco.

 

The annual "Hye Tad Evening" is an opportunity for the ANC to update the community on the status of political issues of concern to Armenian-Americans, to introduce public figures who have made a lasting impact on those issues, and to provide a progress report on the projects being pursued in the community.

 

Former California State Senator Jackie Speier recently announced her candidacy for California's 12th US congressional district, which encompasses San Mateo County and part of San Francisco. The district has been represented by Congressman Tom Lantos since 1980. Lantos will not seek re-election in November. Speier has served as San Mateo County Supervisor for six years and as a State Assemblymember. Throughout her career, the Bay Area ANC has fostered a strong working relationship with Sen. Speier, who has been a strong advocate for issues of concern to Armenian-Americans.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

 

[Ashot]

ANC of Illinois hosts fundraiser for Congressman Lipinski

 

On February 1, 2008, the Armenian National Committee of Illinois (ANC of IL) sponsored a fundraiser for Congressman Daniel Lipinski (D-3). The event was hosted by Mr. And Mrs. Sarkis and Betty Arakelian and held at Saints Joachim and Anne Church in Palos Heights, Illinois. Over 40 supporters were in attendance to thank and honor a Representative who is a strong supporter of the Armenian American community.

 

Following the event, ANC of IL Chairman Ari Killian commented: "It is a pleasure honoring an elected official who is committed to issues that are important to Armenian Americans." The ANC of Illinois recently endorsed Congressman Lipinski for the February 5th primaries, which Lipinski won with over 53% of the votes.

 

In November of 2007, Congressman Lipinski gave a powerful floor speech addressing the Armenian genocide and presenting its history, denial, and need for remembrance stating: "...today we have the opportunity to speak of the annihilation of the Armenians . We can finally characterize the systematic murder of 1.5 million Ottoman Armenians as genocide, and rightfully condemn those atrocious killings that occurred 90 years ago. The prevention of future genocides may depend on it." (Full speech can be read below).

 

Congressman Lipinski's assignments include Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Committee on Science and Technology, and Committee on Small Business. Lipinski is a co- sponsor of House Resolution 106 Affirmation of the United States Record on the Armenian Genocide Resolution, and is a member of the Armenian Caucus.

 

Lipinski was elected in 2004. He is a Chicago native and currently lives in Western Springs, Illinois with his wife Judy.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

 

[karakash]

Instead of taking these ANCA articles from other sources, why not just get them directly from the ANCA - www.anca.org

 

ANC of Illinois hosts fundraiser for Congressman Lipinski

 

On February 1, 2008, the Armenian National Committee of Illinois (ANC of IL) sponsored a fundraiser for Congressman Daniel Lipinski (D-3). The event was hosted by Mr. And Mrs. Sarkis and Betty Arakelian and held at Saints Joachim and Anne Church in Palos Heights, Illinois. Over 40 supporters were in attendance to thank and honor a Representative who is a strong supporter of the Armenian American community.

 

Following the event, ANC of IL Chairman Ari Killian commented: "It is a pleasure honoring an elected official who is committed to issues that are important to Armenian Americans." The ANC of Illinois recently endorsed Congressman Lipinski for the February 5th primaries, which Lipinski won with over 53% of the votes.

 

In November of 2007, Congressman Lipinski gave a powerful floor speech addressing the Armenian genocide and presenting its history, denial, and need for remembrance stating: "...today we have the opportunity to speak of the annihilation of the Armenians . We can finally characterize the systematic murder of 1.5 million Ottoman Armenians as genocide, and rightfully condemn those atrocious killings that occurred 90 years ago. The prevention of future genocides may depend on it." (Full speech can be read below).

 

Congressman Lipinski's assignments include Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Committee on Science and Technology, and Committee on Small Business. Lipinski is a co- sponsor of House Resolution 106 Affirmation of the United States Record on the Armenian Genocide Resolution, and is a member of the Armenian Caucus.

 

Lipinski was elected in 2004. He is a Chicago native and currently lives in Western Springs, Illinois with his wife Judy.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

 

[Ashot]

It's always interesting what the media says!!!

[AVO]

Instead of taking these ANCA articles from other sources, why not just get them directly from the ANCA - www.anca.org

 

 

I thought about doing that, but then again most of us get them in our inboxes anyway.

[Ashot]

Reps. Lowey, Knollenberg express concern about Administration attempts to slash aid to Armenia

 

House Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations Chairwoman Nita Lowey (D-NY) and senior panel member, Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), expressed concern about the Administration’s proposed drastic reductions in U.S. foreign aid to Armenia during recent Congressional hearings on US foreign assistance, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

 

“We would like to thank Chairwoman Lowey and Rep. Knollenberg for their efforts to reverse the proposed cuts in US assistance to Armenia,” stated ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “We look forward to working with members of the House and Senate Appropriations committees to secure appropriate levels of aid to Armenia, direct development aid to Nagorno Karabagh, and to block the Administration's latest bid to break its own agreement to maintain parity in military assistance to Armenia and Azerbaijan.”

 

The President's Fiscal Year 2009 (FY2009) budget recommends cutting U.S. economic aid to Armenia from the FY2008 estimated level of $58 million to a proposed level of $24 million – a cut of nearly 60% and $11 million less than his FY2008 request. This dramatic reduction to Armenia, a nation economically blockaded by Turkey and Azerbaijan, takes place against the backdrop of assistance proposals to other Independent States of the Former Soviet Union that are either remaining constant or experiencing increases. According to the President’s figures, Georgia, for example, would receive $52 million, while Azerbaijan, which is collecting billions in oil revenues, is set to receive $19.5 million. The President’s budget proposal does not include any specific assistance figures for Nagorno Karabagh.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Western Region activists take anti-genocide message to Capitol Hill

 

Armenian National Committee - Western Region (ANC-WR) activists, from all over Western United States, gathered in Washington D.C. to take part in the second annual Capitol Hill advocacy campaign organized by the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) and Genocide Intervention Network (GI-Net).

 

The event, titled "End the Cycle of Genocide: Grassroots Capitol Campaign," took place over the course of three days and drew constituents from California, Oregon, Idaho, Arizona as well as Texas who, along with their counterparts from the Eastern United States held over 100 meetings and relayed information to all Senate and House offices regarding the Armenian Genocide and key Darfur legislation. Students and professionals helped raise awareness regarding the real world dangers resulting from Armenian Genocide denial particularly as it relates to the ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan.

 

"It was an amazing experience and I look forward to Texahyes continuing their regular participation in these advocacy days," said Nathalie Kolandjian, a student at the University of Texas, Austin. "These issues are very important to us and it is crucial to remind our representatives that there is an active Armenian American community back home that cares," she added.

 

Advocacy week participants also took the opportunity to explore the Capitol and many of its historical attractions including the White House, Capitol Hill and the Washington Monument.

 

"Our participation during this week of advocacy has given members of our community an insight into the Washington, D.C. political environment," noted Armen Donigian a participant San Diego, CA. "This was a positive step in growing the relationship between San Diego Armenian Americans and their local Congressional district offices," he added.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Jackie Speier: Our world is more dangerous if it is allowed to dismiss the Armenian Genocide

22.03.2008 12:24

 

At the Bay Area Armenian National Committee's annual "Hye Tad Evening" in San Francisco, Armenian-American congressional candidate Jackie Speier talked about the power of her Armenian roots, her record passing laws on issues important to the Armenian-American community, and her commitment to pursue those issues in Congress.

 

"When I get elected to Congress, the epicenter of Armenian-American representation in Congress will be right here," said Speier, pointing out that the Bay Area Congresswoman Anna Eshoo is also of Armenian descent.

 

"I attribute my ability to withstand adversity and survive in the political arena to my Armenian blood," Speier said. Referring to the 1978 Jonestown, Guyana mass murder during which Congressman Leo Ryan was killed and Speier, his young staffer, was shot five times, Speier said, "As I lay on the tarmac shot several times and left to die… I think my ability to survive can be attributed to my Armenian heritage. As you know, Armenians are known for their ability to withstand atrocities greater than anyone can imagine. It's also possible that my stubborn Armenian genes played a part as well."

 

Speier also spoke about her early education about the Armenian Genocide. "Growing up I remember my Mother sharing stories about her relatives who were killed during the Armenian Genocide," she said. "And I have read over and over and over again Ambassador Henry Morgenthau's telegram to the Secretary of State, dated July 16, 1915: 'Deportation of and excesses against peaceful Armenians is increasing and from harrowing reports of eye witnesses it appears that a campaign of race extermination is in progress under a pretext of reprisal against rebellion.'"

 

"We are told by some to forget the Armenian Genocide. We have a Secretary of state that says, 'Get over it.' But we will not forget and we will not get over it. We demand justice, because we know as students of history that our world is more dangerous to everyone if it is allowed to dismiss the Armenian Genocide. We demand justice because we cannot allow the murder of a nation with impunity. If the US is to be the leader of the free world, we need to lead on this issue, not follow the Turkish government's immoral attempts to bury the truth." said Speier.

Speier criticized the U.S. government for removing the U.S. ambassador to Armenia. "Shame on America for first muzzling and then punishing Ambassador Evans for his speech and his acknowledgement of the Armenian Genocide, and then offering a denier of the Armenian Genocide as his replacement," said Speier. She also criticized the government for doing nothing to stop Azerbaijan's continuing eradication of Armenian historical landmarks in Azerbaijan, and it's military threats against Artsax.

 

She reminded the audience that she has been working alongside the ANC for many years, and as a California state legislator, she authored 16 bills related to Armenian issues. In 1989, she advocated for the law mandating the Department of Education to include instruction on the Armenian Genocide in public schools. Every year thereafter, she co-sponsored the resolution commemorating the Armenian Genocide, including the 2005 bill that made the commemoration permanent law. In her final term, Speier introduced a measure that allows Armenian Genocide victims or their beneficiaries to file claims against banks doing business in California, that refuse to pay for deposited or looted assets of Armenian Genocide victims.

 

As a member of Congress, Speier said she would also work to provide development and humanitarian aid to Armenia and Artsax, and help them become more democratic and prosperous. Referring to the recent Armenian government police actions against demonstrators in Yerevan, Speier said, "A democratic government must represent the will of its people, never to oppress or violate their rights."

 

Speier said she would rally support for Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, limiting aid to Azerbaijan, until it lifts its blockade of Armenia and Artsax. Section 907 is currently not in effect due to a waiver by President Bush. "Turkey cannot strangle Armenia into submission by circumventing Armenia's territory in every regional infrastructure project. Turkey must include Armenia in these projects, because this is the only way to lasting peace."

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

ANCA calls for zeroing out military aid to Azerbaijan in testimony to Congressional Foreign Aid Panel

 

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) offered the Armenian American community's perspective on six key areas of U.S. foreign aid policy in testimony submitted to House Appropriations Subcommittee on State-Foreign Operations.

 

ANCA Government Affairs Director Kate Nahapetian outlined the recommendations of the Armenian American community to the panel, which is currently deliberating the Fiscal Year 2009 (FY09) foreign aid bill. Nahapetian noted the critical role the United States has

played in assisting Armenia against aggression, dating back to the genocide. She also outlined the threats Armenia faces today, and stressed the need to cut all military aid to Azerbaijan, because of its recent attacks against Nagorno Artsax and increasing indications it plans to renew its aggression against Armenians. In the worst cease-fire violation in over a decade, Azerbaijan attacked Artsax in early March, claiming the lives of at least eight people.

 

"Clearly, Azerbaijan should not receive U.S. military aid as long as it threatens to use, or in fact actually employs, its large and growing arsenal in offensive actions against Armenians," explained Nahapetian. "Sending military aid to Azerbaijan in the face of these threats only emboldens Baku to continue its belligerence, while, at the same time, threatening stability, and undermining the U.S. role as an impartial mediator," continued Nahapetian.

 

The six key issues Nahapetian addressed in detail in her testimony were:

 

1) Zeroing out of military aid to Azerbaijan:

2) $70 Million in Economic Support Funds for Armenia

3) $10 million in direct development aid to Nagorno Artsax

4) Removing barriers to U.S. relations with Nagorno Artsax

5) $5 million in military assistance to Armenia

6) Maintaining Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Armenian Genocide commemoration at New York City Hall

26.03.2008 10:21

 

The Armenian National Committee of New York will host the 93rd Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide at City Hall Chambers on April 25th at 5:30 P.M. The evening will feature Professor Henry Theriault of Worcester State College as the main speaker and Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, who will address the community and give the invocation.

 

"While causing New York's Armenian community to reflect thoughtfully on the horrible catastrophe that befell our people, Dr. Theriault will also connect the Armenian Cause to the broader struggle for advancing international human rights," said Doug Geogerian of the Armenian National Committee of New York.

 

Elected official at the local, state and federal levels will attend and pay tribute to the systematic murder of 1.5 million Armenians, a genocide, which the perpetrator, the Turkish government, continues to deny to this day. The commemoration will also include musical work performed in memory of the crime committed against the Armenian nation.

 

The evening's main speaker will be Dr. Henry Theriault, who has written extensively on the subject of genocide and the dispossession of indigenous peoples. While he has dealt at length with the Armenian case, which concerns his own ancestry, Theriault's work is broad and examines the impact of genocide against Africans, Native Americans and other victim groups.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Advocacy Week generates increased cosponsors

26.03.2008 10:39

 

The Armenian National Committee of America - Western Region (ANCA-WR) reports that 5 Members of the United States House of Representatives have recently joined in support of Darfur related legislation as cosponsors. Anti-genocide activists from numerous western states traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in a joint advocacy week organized by the Armenian National Committee of America and Genocide Intervention Network (GIN). Activists provided informational materials and support for legislation related to the ongoing crisis in Darfur and the Armenian Genocide resolution.

 

"We must stop the genocide in Darfur," stated ANCA-WR Executive Director Andrew Kzirian. "Activists help to create the will that supports these important pieces of legislation in the House and Senate - and together we can educate our elected officials as to why it is so critically important to act and end the cycle of genocide," he added.

 

The various areas of legislation discussed included H. Res. 106 (the Armenian Genocide resolution), H. Res. 1011 and S. Res. 470, which call for a comprehensive regional strategy for Chad, Central African Republic and Darfur, Sudan. Also brought up was S. Res. 455, which calls for peace in Darfur, implementation of the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act and supplemental funding for the peacekeeping mission in Darfur.

 

During advocacy week, over 100 meetings were held with numerous congressman and information regarding the Armenian Genocide and key Darfur legislation was communicated to all Senate and House offices

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Serj Tankian and ANC Utah activists meet at concert

01.04.2008 11:15

 

Several Armenian National Committee Utah (ANC Utah) activists attended a Serj Tankian concert at In the Venue. After a spectacular show, ANC Utah Chairman Sarkis Bekearian met with Serj Tankian and band member Erwin Kachikian.

 

Tankian, who has been instrumental in raising Genocide awareness, discussed the importance of ANC initiatives, including H. Res. 106.

"It was an amazing experience to not only attend Serj Tankian's concert but to meet with him as well," exclaimed Sarkis Bekearian. "We are extremely proud of Serj as he has been an influential role model for the Armenian youth in Utah and worldwide. He was gracious enough to meet with us and share his thoughts and ideas regarding the significance of educating Armenians and non-Armenians to end the cycle of genocide," he added.

 

Tankian also discussed with ANC Utah activists his involvement with the film Screamers. The documentary, which follows System of a Down's personal campaign to end the cycle of genocide, has made an impact on millions throughout the US. It has educated many who might otherwise not have been aware of the Armenian, Cambodian, Rwandan and Darfur genocides, the latter of which is currently taking place.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

ANCA ER Executive Director to take part in Genocide Education Awareness Panel in New York City

01.04.2008 12:13

 

On April 7, 2008, at New York University Law School Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) Executive Director Karine Birazian will be participating on a panel organized by Miracle Corners of the World (MCW) and Jacqueline's Human Rights Corner for an event entitled "'Never Again?': Implications and Actions around the World."

 

"It is such an honor to participate with Miracle Corners of the World on this upcoming panel which will also mark the 14th Anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide," commented Birazian. "Having recently met with the organizer of the event, Rwandan Genocide survivor Jacqueline Murekatete, it was moving to hear her story and the ongoing need for genocide education awareness."

 

The event is expected to bring together genocide survivors from around the world and world-renowned genocide prevention educators and voices to examine the crime and reality of genocide in the 20th and 21st centuries. They will discuss how the phrase "Never Again" has yet to be fully implemented by the international community, and share how individuals can work together to create a world without genocide.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Armenian Activists protest appearance of Abraham Foxman in Birmingham

02.04.2008 10:13

 

On Wednesday, March 26, 2008, protesters gathered in front of the Birmingham Community House to protest the appearance of Abraham Foxman, National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), reported the Armenian National Committee of Michigan (ANC of MI).

 

The peaceful rally, which drew activists from all over Michigan, was led by the local chapters of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation and the Armenian Democratic Liberal Organization. For two hours, activists held signs and distributed information about the ADL to those attending the event. It was later discovered that Mr. Foxman had unexpectedly canceled his appearance at the event.

 

"The Armenian community will not be silenced when it comes to speaking out on the truth," commented ANC of MI Chairman Armen Derderian. "We will continue to work here in Michigan and throughout the nation to expose the Abraham Foxman's complicity of denial on this important human rights issue."

 

Prior to the demonstration, on Sunday, March 23, 2008 the organizing bodies placed a full-page advertisement in the Observer & Eccentric newspaper. The article entitled "Shame on You Abraham H. Foxman" alerted readers to the ongoing controversies of the ADL's denial, as well as educated the public about the Armenian Genocide.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Community groups increase support of ANC-WR

04.04.2008 12:07

 

Members of the Armenian Youth Federation from all over Southern California gathered at the ANC-WR headquarters in Glendale to participate in the ANC-WR monthly public policy forum. This month's workshop was presented by Glendale City Clerk, Ardashes Kassakhian and was comprised of various topics, including the importance of community activism and voter registration in the upcoming 2008 presidential elections.

 

"It's important for today's young Armenian Americans to take advantage of opportunities to involve themselves in the American political and electoral process," said Ardashes Kassakhian, Glendale City Clerk.

 

This installment of the ANC-WR Public Policy Forum aimed to encourage attendees to take a proactive role and stronger interest in their local communities and government affairs.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

ANC-WR welcomes new Chairman Vicken Sonentz-Papazian

 

08.04.2008 10:32

 

The Armenian National Committee – Western Region (ANC-WR) this week welcomed long time activist Vicken Sonentz-Papazian as its new chairman. Originally from Watertown, Massachusetts, Papazian has been involved with the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) since 1985.

 

"I look forward to building on the impressive successes of the ANC-WR," stated Papazian. "This is a great opportunity to work with the board of directors and community leaders," he added.

 

In addition to working at the ANCA office in Washington D.C. from 1985-1987, Papazian also served as the ANCA Executive Director from 1991-1993. He joined ANC-WR as the executive director from 1995-2000 shortly after.

 

Papazian, who has been a licensed attorney since 1991, is admitted to practice law in California and the District of Columbia. He has been instrumental in promoting Armenian issues on Capitol Hill, within the United Nations and on the state, county and local levels.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

Burbank AYF joins with Burbank ANC to commemorate the 93rd Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

 

12.04.2008 14:50

 

The Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Burbank Chapter is taking over the major duties this year from the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Burbank in organizing the commemoration of the 1915 to 1923 Armenian Genocide, which left 1.5 million Armenians dead and 500,000 more ethnically-cleansed from their ancestral homeland.

 

On Tuesday, April 22 at 6 PM, Burbank AYF chairman Shunt Jarshafdjian will accept a proclamation from Burbank Mayor Marsha Ramos, at the beginning of the city's weekly council meeting.

 

Jarshafdjian will be joined by fellow AYF members Ovsana Khodabakhsh and Raffi Prudian, as well as Burbank ANC member Vahe Shahinian.

 

After the presentation by Mayor Ramos commemorating the victims of the brutal genocide perpetuated by the Turkish Government, there will be an 8 PM candlelight vigil on the steps of Burbank City Hall, in memory of the innocent men, women and children who were murdered from 1915 to 1923.

 

Members from an Armenian-American scouting organization, the Homenetmen Sipan Chapter of Burbank, will officially kick-off the candlelight vigil with the presentation of the colors and the flag salute.

 

Speaking at the candlelight vigil will be Hovan Tashjian of the Armenian Cultural Foundation (ACF) of Burbank and AYF Central Executive Casper Jivalagian.

 

There will also be a poetry reading accompanied by the playing of a duduk.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

[Ashot]

ANC-WR activists raise awareness about Armenian American issues at California Democratic Party Convention

 

18.04.2008 10:45

 

The Armenian National Committee - Western Region (ANC-WR) attended the California Democratic Party's (CRP) annual convention which took place in San Jose, California. ANC-WR Community Relations Director Haig Hovsepian participated in the event along with local San Jose ANC activists.

 

"What a convention! We look forward to this every year," said Haig Hovsepian, ANC-WR Community Relations Director. "It is great connecting with all our friends but also getting to know new communities and organizations from across the state," he added.

 

Several notables including CA State Controller John Chiang, U.S. Representative Adam Schiff, CA Senator Joe Simitian, and CA Assembly Member Warren Furutani visited the ANC-WR booth. Activists raised awareness about Armenian American issues, connected with other community organizations and met other Armenian Americans participating in the convention.

 

Unlike the CA Republican Party, the CA Democratic Party only hosts one convention per year, making participation in this event all that more important. The ANC-WR looks forward to continuing strong participation in these public affairs conventions and educational activities.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

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ANCA-WR joins Los Angeles City Council in Armenian Genocide commemoration

 

19.04.2008 11:32

 

The Armenian National Committee of America - Western Region (ANCA-WR) attended a special session of the Los Angeles City Council commemorating the 93rd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide on April 18, 2008. The event was hosted by the Los Angeles City Council, led by City Council President Eric Garcetti (District 13) and City Council President Pro Tempore Wendy Greuel (District 2). During the ceremony the LA City Council issued a proclamation on the occasion of this commemoration.

 

"The city council of Los Angeles' commitment and leadership serves as an example to human rights activists and all levels of government throughout the country," stated ANC-WR Executive Director Antranig Kzirian. "Today's statement is a reminder that the consequences of genocide and its denial remain with us to this day – and that the gag rule that Turkey has placed on the United States must be lifted," he added.

 

Attending the event on behalf of the ANCA-WR were Board Members Pattyl Aposhian-Kasparian, Vahagn Thomassian and Souzi Zerounian-Khanzadian. They were joined by ANCA-WR Community Relations Director Haig Hovsepian, ANCA-WR Press Secretary Ani Garabedian and ANCA-WR Executive Director Andrew Kzirian who delivered remarks to city council members and those in attendance.

 

During their remarks, Council Members Garcetti and Greuel noted the importance of remembering and recognizing the Armenian Genocide and in turn appropriately confronting the genocide in Darfur today.

 

Also, in attendance were members of the Armenian community including, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Armenia, Armenian Relief Society Representative Rima Boghossian, Armenian Youth Federation Western Region Central Executive Chairman Caspar Jivalagian, Consul General of Armenia in Los Angeles Armen Liloyan, ANC Hollywood Representative Harout Beshlian, and a large number of students from Rose and Alex Piliobos Armenian School.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

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ANCA Eastern Region announces honoree for second Annual Banquet

 

19.04.2008 11:43

The Armenian National Committee of America, Eastern Region (ANCA ER) has announced plans to hold its second annual banquet on September 13, 2008 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City, with honored guest, Pulitzer Prize winner Samantha Power.

 

"We are proud to be honoring Samantha Power," commented ANCA ER Chairman Dikran Kaligian. "She has been outspoken on human rights issues and genocide awareness and has educated hundreds of thousands throughout the nation and the world on this important issue. In her opening chapter of her first book, she writes about the Armenian Genocide leading to the unfortunate realities of the other genocides that followed."

 

The evening will begin with a silent auction, followed by a dinner and program, during which Samantha Power will receive the ANCA ER Freedom Award. This award is given to those who demonstrate extraordinary courage and devotion to freedom and justice. Last year's honoree was former United States Ambassador to Armenia, John Evans, who was dismissed from his position for speaking the truth about the Armenian Genocide.

 

Power, author of "A Problem From Hell: America and the Age of Genocide" and her most recent book "Chasing the Flame: Sergio Vieira de Mello and the Fight to Save the World", teaches at the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. She was a senior adviser to U.S. Democratic Party presidential candidate Barack Obama. "A Problem from Hell" won the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 2003.

 

Public Radio of Armenia

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ANCA Chairman sharply criticizes Bush's final April 24th statement

 

Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Chairman Ken Hachikian strongly criticized President George W. Bush's most recent April 24th statement as the final step of his betrayal of his campaign promise to recognize the Armenian Genocide, and a symbol of his Administration's "morally bankrupt" eight-year policy of complicity in Turkey's lies and denials.

 

The letter also notes that the President, during his two terms in office, has refused repeated requests by the leadership of the Armenian American community to discuss the Armenian Genocide and other issues of mutual concern. Earlier this year, on April 4th, Hachikian wrote a separate letter to the Secretary of State outlining 13 specific areas in which the Administration pursued policies at odds with the views and values of America's one and a half million citizens of Armenian heritage.

 

In his letter to Presidnet Bush Ken Hachikian stated: “I am writing, in the wake of your final April 24th statement, to share with you the Armenian American community's profound sadness over your betrayal of your own pledge to properly recognize the genocidal campaign committed against the Armenian people.

 

In each of your eight statements, you retreated from your campaign statement, choosing instead to use evasive and euphemistic terminology to obscure the full moral, historical, and contemporary legal implications of Turkey's genocide against the Armenian people between 1915-1923. Beyond the depths of this moral failing, as President you went further, utilizing the full force of your White House to silence others who, through their own words and actions, sought to properly commemorate the very crime that you had promised to recognize as a candidate for office. You fired U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, John Marshall Evans, for remarks that were entirely within keeping with the spirit and letter of your own campaign pledge. More recently, using every government resource at your disposal, you sought to block Congress from adopting a resolution

that simply reaffirmed the vow, now forsaken, that you made to the American people.

 

As you know, despite repeated requests on our part over your past two terms in office, you never once offered the leadership of the Armenian American community an opportunity to consult with you on this issue, even as the media has consistently reported that you have discussed the Armenian Genocide in meetings with leaders of foreign nations.

 

We are truly saddened by your broken campaign pledge and, of course, by your morally bankrupt policy of complicity in Turkey's campaign of Armenian Genocide denial. We respectfully ask, once again, for a meeting between you and the leadership of our community to discuss this and other issues of mutual concern.”

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MCC CEO meets with Armenian community leaders in California

 

Armenian Assembly representatives attended a community briefing by Ambassador John J. Danilovich, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in Los Angeles, CA. The event was hosted by Armenian Caucus Member Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA).

 

Danilovich offered a first-hand account of MCC’s work in Armenia for the past several years. The agency signed a five-year, $235.65 million Compact with the Armenian government in 2005 to improve irrigation systems and rehabilitate roads.

 

Former Assembly Board of Trustees Member Richard Mushegain and Assembly Western Office Director Lena Kaimian attended the event, which included Armenian Consul General Armen Liloyan and community leaders representing various organizations.

 

“MCC was pleased to participate in this meeting, co-hosted by the Office of Congressman Adam Schiff, as a forum for open and honest dialogue among friends and partners of the people of Armenia,” said Aaron H. Sherinian, Managing Director of Public Affairs for MCC. “This latest meeting is part of MCC’s ongoing commitment to transparency regarding the progress of its innovative programs, in places like Armenia, that are helping reduce poverty through economic growth.”

 

Public Radio of Armenia

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ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY WELCOMES McGOVERN’S APPOINTMENT

 

[05:28 pm] 03 July, 2008

 

Washington, DC - The Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) welcomes Speaker Nancy Pelosi's (D-CA) recent selection of Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) to replace the late Congressman Tom Lantos, the Co-Founder of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus, as the new Co-Chair.

 

Chairman Lantos was an ardent defender of human rights throughout his distinguished career in Congress. During the 110th Congress, Lantos strongly supported efforts to end the genocide in Darfur, as well as voted for House Resolution 106, which combats ongoing attempts to deny the historical truth of the Armenian Genocide.

 

In fact, last October, Lantos, in his role as Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee voted in support of this critical human rights bill and stated, "This is one of those events which has to be settled once and for all: 1.5 million utterly innocent Armenian men, women and children were slaughtered. And the Turkish government, until now, has intimidated the Congress of the United States from taking this measure. I think it's important, at a time when genocides are going on in Darfur and elsewhere, not to be an accomplice in sweeping an important genocide under the rug."

 

"I am honored by Speaker Pelosi's decision and look forward to working with my colleagues to address critical issues facing us today," said Congressman McGovern. "From ending the current genocidal campaign in Darfur and preventing future genocides by reaffirming the historical truth of the Armenian Genocide, I want to ensure that this important body carries forward the legacy of the great Tom Lantos," McGovern continued.

 

McGovern, like Lantos, strongly supports a wide range of human rights legislation, including H.Res.106. In addition, he is an active member of the Armenian Caucus, serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee and is a member of the House Budget Committee.

 

"Congressman McGovern understands the important role Congress can play in not only bringing attention to human rights abuses, but also in shaping solutions to address them. The Armenian Assembly is committed to working with the Caucus on issues of mutual concern," said Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny.

 

The Human Rights Caucus was founded in 1983 by Co-Chairman Tom Lantos (D-CA) and former Co-Chairman John Edward Porter (R-IL). In 2001, the Caucus welcomed Congressman Frank R. Wolf (R-VA) as Co-Chair when Porter retired from Congress. The Caucus has united the efforts of legislators to fight religious persecution, defend fundamental human rights and has demonstrated the importance of human rights to Congress.

 

Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. It is a 501©(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

 

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