Washington, DC - Earlier this week, the Armenian Assembly of America, in conjunction with its co-hosts, the Eastern and Western Dioceses of the Armenian Church, the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), and in cooperation with some 30 partner organizations, held its 2009 National Advocacy Conference and Banquet in Washington, DC.

"The Assembly appreciates the support of our partner organizations, benefactors, patrons, sponsors, and activists from across the nation, who took part in this Conference and Banquet," stated Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "Our collective success reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthen and expand U.S.-Armenia relations, as well as securing U.S. reaffirmation of the Armenian Genocide."

The Conference portion, held on Monday, March 2, which included panel discussions and legislative training sessions, was designed to better prepare activists to discuss issues with Washington's most influential decision makers. This was followed by Tuesday's visits to Capitol Hill.

Monday's program included remarks from Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA), Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI) and Brad Sherman (D-CA); Ms. Nancy Kaufman, Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston; Mr. Andrew Tarsy, Facing History and Ourselves Foundation; Ms. Kathryn Porter, Leadership Council for Human Rights; Ms. Zaida Arguedas, League of Women Voters; as well as an Armenian Genocide Photographic Exhibit by Dr. Hilmar Kaiser.

Later that evening, Conference guests attended a special reception at the future site of the Armenian Genocide Museum of America. Speaking about the museum and its importance were Dr. Rouben Adalian, Director, Armenian National Institute; Mr. Hayk Demoyan, Director, Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, Armenia; Mr. Shant Mardirossian, Chairman, Near East Foundation; and presentations on Museum Development were made by Martinez & Johnson Architecture and Gallagher & Associates.

The event culminated on March 3, with a banquet program led by Masters of Ceremonies Rep. Zack Space (D-OH) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI). His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian delivered the invocation. The Arax Armenian Dance Ensemble gave a special cultural performance. Her Excellency Hranush Hakobyan, Minister of Diaspora Affairs for the Republic of Armenia, was the special guest speaker. Major General Tod Bunting delivered the keynote address, touching on the unique program of cooperation between the Kansas National Guard and Armenia. The Assembly was also honored that Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Mark Kirk (R-IL), George Radanovich (R-CA), Ed Royce (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and Brad Sherman (D-CA) were among our distinguished guests.

In addition, the Assembly announced the creation of the Proxmire Award, which recognizes Senator William Proxmire's longstanding record in highlighting the need for genocide prevention and education. Ms. Ellen Proxmire, the wife of Senator Proxmire of Wisconsin, addressed the Banquet attendees about the work of her husband and the creation and significance of the Proxmire Award.
 
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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Editor's Note: The complete list of speakers and honored guests is available here.