"Every day that passes, the choice for Armenian-Americans in this election becomes clearer and clearer. On the one hand we have Senator Obama, who actively and passionately engages Armenian-Americans and demonstrates the great value he places on our community. On the other hand, we have Senator John McCain, who apparently doesn't care enough to reach out in any meaningful way to Armenian-American voters."
Areen Ibranossian, Chairman, Armenians for Obama
September 22, 2008
Los Angeles, CA - On Sunday, September 21 Senator Barack Obama's Presidential campaign released a statement on the 17th anniversary of the Republic of Armenia's independence. In his remarks, Senator Obama reiterated his recognition of the Armenian Genocide and praised the Armenian community for its strength and perseverance.
Senator Obama's statement included the following passage: "On this day, September 21, Armenians and friends of Armenia everywhere celebrate the independence of the Republic of Armenia, and I extend my warmest and best wishes on this happy occasion. Throughout their long history, a spirit of independence, self-reliance, and survival defines the Armenian people. After centuries of living in the Persian, Russian, and Turkish empires, Armenians first achieved their modern independence in 1918 and regained it after 70 years of Soviet rule in 1991. Their struggle continues, but in the years of renewed independence they have been able to guide their own destiny through years of war and economic dislocation. Even in the face of genocide, the pain of the past has not defeated the Armenians, either in Armenia or the far-flung diaspora."
Areen Ibranossian, Chair of Armenians for Obama, heralded the statement by saying, "Senator Obama's passionate statement on the 17th anniversary of Armenia's independence is yet another example of his commitment to the Armenian community. His deep knowledge of the history of Armenia and his appreciation of that history is a telling sign of how much importance Armenia would have in an Obama administration."
Senator John McCain's presidential campaign has not released a statement on Armenian's Independence Day nor has it released any public statements supporting the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, self-determination for Nagorno-Karabakh, aid to Armenia, or any other issues of importance to the Armenian American community.
Ibranossian blasted McCain for his refusal to engage the Armenian-American community. "Every day that passes, the choice for Armenian-Americans in this election becomes clearer and clearer. On the one hand we have Senator Obama, who actively and passionately engages Armenian-Americans and demonstrates the great value he places on our community. On the other hand, we have Senator John McCain, who apparently doesn't care enough to reach out in any meaningful way to Armenian-American voters, " stated Ibranossian.
Armenians for Obama is a nationwide voter registration, education, and mobilization effort dedicated to electing Barack Obama President. Based in Los Angeles, and with chapters and affiliates across the country, Armenians for Obama is harnessing the energy and enthusiasm for Barack Obama's candidacy to ensure record high Armenian American turnout in critical battleground states.
A copy of the full text of Senator Barack Obama's statement is below.
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Statement by Senator Barack Obama on Armenian Independence Day
On this day, September 21, Armenians and friends of Armenia everywhere celebrate the independence of the Republic of Armenia, and I extend my warmest and best wishes on this happy occasion.
Throughout their long history, a spirit of independence, self-reliance, and survival defines the Armenian people. After centuries of living in the Persian, Russian, and Turkish empires, Armenians first achieved their modern independence in 1918 and regained it after 70 years of Soviet rule in 1991. Their struggle continues, but in the years of renewed independence they have been able to guide their own destiny through years of war and economic dislocation. Even in the face of genocide, the pain of the past has not defeated the Armenians, either in Armenia or the far-flung diaspora.
America has benefited tremendously from the vigor and talents of the Armenian people. Armenian-Americans have made enormous contributions to American life to our arts and academia, to business, science, and politics while still maintaining strong ties to their ancestral home.
Recent events in the Caucasus region remind us of both the importance of rededicating ourselves to peace, and the possibility of progress even where there is a long history of alienation. The conflict in Georgia shows the danger that lurks when rising tensions are ignored and the United States pursues a diplomatic strategy of neglect. But in recent days we have also seen the hopeful step taken by the Presidents of Turkey and Armenia - to restart dialogue that could, in time, bring a welcome normalization of relations and offer Armenia more diversified opportunities for trade, transport, and energy supplies. American policy must build on this step, to ensure that Armenia enjoys a future not merely of independence but of partnership and cooperation with the U.S. and its allies.