LOS ANGELES–The Chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Ken Hachikian joined the San Fernando Valley and Burbank ANC chapters for two separate–but equally successful–fundraising events on July 12 and 13.The two local ANC chapters–in cooperation with the ANCA-Western Region office–sponsored the events to raise money to expand and enhance the ANCA’s efforts to advance Armenian issues in Congress–the White House–and among think tanks in Washington–DC.
Speaking to the attendees at each event–Hachikian highlighted ANCA’s recent accomplishmen’s–notably the passage of H.R. 193 by the House Judiciary Committee earlier this year. The bill marks the 15th Anniversary of the U.S. adoption of the U.N. Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide.
Hachikian reminded the audience that this pivotal first step in the passage of the resolution that will ultimately gain recognition for the Armenian Genocide would not have been possible without the efforts of local ANC chapters and the dedication of thousands of ANC activists. Speaking about the many challenges that still lie ahead for Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora–Hachikian spoke about the significance of grassroots activism and urged supporters to continue their advocacy on behalf of the Armenian Cause.
"Tonight we learned why and how the ANCA has grown to become the most influential Armenian-American lobbying organization in Washington–DC," said Chairman of the San Fernando Valley ANC Vahe Melkonian. "I was pleased that Ken Hachikian came to Los Angeles and conveyed the ANCA’s appreciation for our political activism and that he emphasized the importance of local ANC chapters being strong and decisive grassroots organizations," added Melkonian. The San Fernando Valley ANC’s event–which was held in Encino–attracted over 60 ANCA supporters and raised over $10,000.
Those who attended the Burbank ANC event were also encouraged by Hachikian’s words. Speaking to a crowd composed of primarily young Armenian-American professionals–the ANCA Chairman’spoke to them about ANCA’s mission and the hard work that required to advance Armenian issues on Capitol Hill.
Community Relations Chair for the Burbank ANC Garen Yeghpairian noted–"This marks a great beginning and was a huge success due to the large turnout and the interest which was expressed towards having similar future events."
The Burbank ANC event raised more than $6,000 for the ANCA.