Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
May 28, 2009
Contact: Michael A. Zachariades
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 393-3434
CONGRESSMAN BECERRA REAFFIRMS HIS SUPPORT FOR H. RES. 252
Los Angeles, CA – Addressing a crowd of Armenian and Hellenic activists
on Wednesday night, Congressman Xavier Becerra (D-CA) reaffirmed his
support for U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, reported the
Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).
At an event cosponsored by the Assembly, along with the American
Hellenic Council of America and the Armenian National Committee of
America, Rep. Becerra stated, "As a close friend and ally of Armenia, it
is long past time for us to recognize the historical fact of the
genocide committed against the Armenian people at the turn of the last
century – a historical fact that should be recognized, and learned from
regardless of the strong relationship that exists between us [and
Turkey]. That is why I continue to be a strong supporter and cosponsor
of Rep. Adam Schiff’s ‘Affirmation of the United States Record on the
Armenian Genocide Resolution’ in Congress."
"As an advocate for human rights issues, Congressman Becerra has
demonstrated his unwavering support to the Armenian-American community.
The Assembly appreciates his steadfast support as an active member of
the Armenian Caucus and as a cosponsor of H. Res.252, the Armenian
Genocide Resolution," stated Assembly Western Region Director, Yeghig L.
Keshishian.
Keshishian and members of the Southern California Regional Council –
Joyce Stein, Talin Yacoubian, Al Cabraloff and Richard Mushegain – also
met separately with Congressman Becerra to discuss a number of issues
confronting U.S.-Armenia relations. Keshishian shared strong concerns
about the administration’s 38 percent cut in assistance to Armenia, as
well as its support for increased military assistance to Azerbaijan. "It
is not only disappointing to see the Obama Administration decrease
funding to Armenia while increasing military assistance to oil-rich
Azerbaijan, but it also runs counter to U.S. interests in the South
Caucasus," stated Keshishian.
Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest
Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding
and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt
membership organization.
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