Assembly Board Member Annie Totah presses key issues

PanARMENIAN.Net - In meetings with Members of Congress throughout the year, Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) Board Member Annie Totah continues to press key issues, reported the Assembly.

During a meeting with Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), Totah discussed the importance of the Armenian Genocide resolution and urged the Senator to cosponsor this important human rights legislation. Introduced by Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) along with Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL), S. 399, the Armenian Genocide resolution is currently pending before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Upon introducing the Bill, Senator Menendez told the Assembly: "Only when history's darkest hours are acknowledged and understood can we truly learn from the lessons of the past and build a peaceful future. With the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide approaching in 2015 and few survivors remaining, we must strengthen our resolve to unequivocally affirm the Armenian Genocide."

A spokesman for Senator Kirk stated: "The Armenian Genocide is well-documented and formally recognized by 11 NATO allies and the European Union. This resolution accurately characterizes the events of 1915-1923 as a genocide, honors the memory of the victims, and strengthens America's moral leadership on human rights and the prevention of mass atrocities around the world."

When meeting with Congressman Steny Hoyer, House Democratic Whip and fellow Marylander, Totah, along with Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Armenia relationship, as well as the Assembly's concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in Syria and the importance of protecting Syria's minority Christian population, including its vibrant Armenian community.

In addition to discussing Armenian matters, Totah also recently had the opportunity to talk about issues impacting her home state with John Podesta, former White House Chief of Staff to President Bill Clinton, Maryland State Senator James Rosapepe, and Terry Lierman, former Chief of Staff to Congressman Hoyer.

"Coming off of our successful 40th Anniversary Gala in California, the Assembly will continue to press forward for the betterment of the Armenian people," said Totah. "I want to thank our many friends in Congress and know that by continuing our important work, we will reach our goals and aspirations."