Last week, Armenian Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny and Grassroots Director Taniel Koushakjian met with Congressman Robert Dold (R-IL), reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).

Congressman Dold is the lead Republican sponsor of H.Res. 304, the Armenian Genocide Resolution. The resolution is modeled after H.Res. 252 (111th Congress), H.Res. 106 (110th Congress), H.Res. 316 (109th Congress), and H.Res. 398/596 (106th Congress), which were all adopted by the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

During their briefing with Congressman Dold, Ardouny and Koushakjian recalled the proud chapter in America's history in helping to save the survivors of the first genocide of the 20th century, provided an overview of the tactics used by those who deny the Armenian Genocide, and stressed the need to secure an affirmative vote on the House floor.

"I look forward to working with the Armenian Assembly and the community on this important human rights issue," stated Congressman Dold. "The Armenian Genocide is a historical fact that cannot be ignored and must be recognized," added Dold.

In addition to U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, funding for Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, as well as the growing concern regarding Azerbaijan's ongoing war rhetoric, was also discussed.

"We commend Congressman Dold for his leadership in spearheading the Armenian Genocide Resolution with Congressman Schiff (D-CA)," Ardouny stated. "We appreciate his enthusiastic support and look forward to working with him to advance this important legislation."