LOS ANGELES–The Armenian National Committee-Political Action Committee (ANC-PAC) on Friday praised Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the Los Angeles City Council for adopting a resolution in support of two bills marking the Armenian genocide that are pending in the United States Congress. The resolution formally includes support for the Armenian genocide bills in the City’s 2005-2006 Federal Legislative Program.
Councilman Eric Garcetti–presented the resolution–which was unanimously adopted on December 2–2005. Garcetti–a prominent supporter of Armenian issues–represents thousands of Armenian Americans who live in Hollywood’s Little Armenia. Crafted by Garcetti–the resolution had the full and enthusiastic support of Villaraigosa. As a growing force in the Democratic Party–Villaraigosa’s support for the resolution was especially meaningful and consistent with his close working relationship with the ANC.
"We thank Mayor Villaraigosa and Councilman Garcetti for their leadership in pushing the US Congress to properly acknowledge the Armenian genocide," said ANC-PAC Chairman Leonard Manoukian. "We look forward to sharing this important resolution with area Members of Congress–like Congressman David Dreier (R-CA)–who have the power to bring the Armenian genocide resolution to a vote on the House floor," Manoukian added.
Two bills marking the Armenian genocide–one authored by Congressman George Radanovich (R-CA) and the other by Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA)–are now awaiting a vote on the House floor. The House International Relations Committee overwhelmingly passed both bills on September 15–2005.