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
April 24, 2009
Contact: Michael A Zachariades
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 393-3434
PRESIDENT OBAMA FAILS TO HONOR PLEDGE TO AFFIRM THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
Washington, DC – With heightened expectations of normalized relations
between Turkey and Armenia, President Barack Obama had an opportunity to
chart a new course in his April 24th statement commemorating the
Armenian Genocide, but failed to deliver on the change he promised,
reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).
"Today’s statement does not reflect the change the President promised,"
stated Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "His failure to affirm
the proud chapter in U.S. history, the American response to the first
genocide of the 20th century, has needlessly delayed the cause of
genocide affirmation and diminishes U.S. credibility with regard to
genocide prevention," added Ardouny.
In January 2008, then-Senator Obama stated: "As President I will
recognize the Armenian Genocide." In October 2008, President Obama
reiterated his views, "I believe that the Armenian Genocide is not an
allegation, a personal opinion, or a point of view, but rather a widely
documented fact supported by an overwhelming body of historical
evidence."
"Empty promises are no change at all. Today, as we reflect on the
importance of genocide education, affirmation and prevention, we must
redouble our efforts to ensure that the words ‘never again’ have true
meaning – starting with the adoption of H. Res. 252 in the U.S. House of
Representatives," concluded Ardouny.
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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NR#2009-041
Editor’s Note:
Complete text of President Obama’s statement.
1/Q2_2009/President_Obama_April_2
4_2009_Statement .pdf
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
