WASHINGTON, DC – The American Hellenic Institute (AHI), today, urged House International Relations Committee Chairman Henry Hyde (R-IL) to work for committee approval of Armenian Genocide legislation, set to be considered by the panel on Thursday, September 15, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

In a September 13th letter to Chairman Hyde, AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis, explained that, “Americans of Hellenic origin, and I believe most Americans, have long held that the U.S. Congress should be on record as recognizing the Armenian Genocide, commemorating this crime against all humanity, and applying its lessons to help prevent future atrocities and genocides.” He went on to note that “Sadly, due to the powerful pressure brought to bear by the Turkish lobby’s threats and intimidation, legislation along these lines has been blocked from passage.”

“We want to thank Nick Larigakis and all our friends at the American Hellenic Institute for their steadfast support for U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “The assistance of our Greek American allies for this legislation means a great deal to us – here in Washington, DC, and in communities around the country.”

The American Hellenic Institute strengthens United States relations with Greece and Cyprus and within the American Hellenic community.

Congressional support for Armenian Genocide legislation (H.Res.316 and H.Con.Res.195) continued to grow this week, with House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) joining with Reps. Rob Simmons (R-CT), Janet Schakowsky (D-IL), and John Barrow (D-GA) in pledging support for the measure.