WATERTOWN, MA — The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA ER) has released its year end review for 2002 (see below).

What follows is a brief chronological look at the wide range of activities that occurred in 2002 on the local, state, national, and international levels, through the efforts of ANCs and community volunteers.

For complete coverage of the ANCA ER 2002 year end roundup, individuals are encouraged to obtain a copy of the January 4, 2003, Armenian Weekly or to visit the ANCA website at www.anca.org.

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

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Armenian National Committee of America
Eastern Region
2002 Year End Roundup

As you will read below, 2002 was a busy year.

Armenian National Committees (ANC) across the country and world worked to further the understanding of issues important to Armenian Americans and Armenia.

Most readers are more familiar with the important work the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) does to promote important issues in and around Washington, DC. Congressional efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide, efforts to increase US foreign assistance to Armenia and Karabagh, efforts to promote the self-determination of the people of Nagorno Karabagh, efforts to monitor US assistance to Azerbaijan and Turkey.

Below is a brief synopsis of those activities as well as a look at hai tahd activities that occurred on the local, state, and international levels, through the combined efforts of ANCs and community volunteers. Additionally some events occurred last year that affect hai tahd efforts, which have been included on this list in order to give a full picture.

All of these activities promote the understanding of the diverse issues important to Armenian Americans and help strengthen Armenia and they occur through the continued and generous moral and financial support of thousands of individuals and many organizations.

To learn more about the Armenian National Committee or the myriad activities that ANCs pursue, please contact your local ANC or visit www.anca.org.

January 2002

Voter Registration Campaign. In preparation for the 2002 Elections, the Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA ER) launches a voter registration campaign encouraging Armenian Americans to make the Armenian American vote count. January 5.

President Bush and Section 907. Following Congressional legislation authorizing President Bush to waive Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act (allowing direct US aid to the government of Azerbaijan), the ANCA encourages Armenian Americans and friends to write to the President urging him to oppose US military assistance, transfers, and sales to Azerbaijan, including those of dual-use technologies, that could potentially be used by the Azerbaijani military against Nagorno Karabagh or Armenia. January 12.

Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs urge the Administration to Expedite Bilateral Tax Agreement with Armenia. Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ) urge US Treasury Secretary Paul O’Neill to expedite a bilateral tax treaty between the US and Armenia effectively eliminating the “double taxation” of income of citizens working in both countries. January 23.

President Bush Waives Section 907. President George W. Bush waives Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, allowing direct US aid to the government of Azerbaijan, despite Azerbaijan’s failure to meet the conditions of the law by lifting its illegal blockades of Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh. Presidential authority to waive Section 907 was granted in October 2001 by Congress under extraordinary pressure from the Administration. January 25.

February 2002

ANCA Publishes Position Papers on Key Armenian American Concerns. The ANCA publishes position papers on key issues of concern to the Armenian American community, including Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, US Aid to Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh, Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, and US Arms Sales/Transfers to Turkey. February 1.

ANCA Encourages Armenian Americans to Write Their Members of Congress. The ANCA ER encourages individuals to write to their Members of Congress and state and local officials and urge them to support issues of special concern to Armenian Americans, like official US recognition of the Armenian Genocide, aid to Armenia, Karabagh’s right to self-determination, and Armenian Genocide curriculum initiatives. February 2.

ANC of Eastern Massachusetts Representatives Elected to Democratic State Convention. Joshua Tevekelian and Dikran Kaligian of the ANC of Eastern Massachusetts are elected delegates to the Democratic State Convention. February 2.

Additional Members of Congress Cosponsor H.Con.Res.162. Legislation, introduced by Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ), and Rep. John Sweeney (R-NY), expressing growing Congressional opposition to the use of American tax dollars to fund Caspian energy projects that exclude Armenia, continues to attract cosponsors. February.

ANCA Joins AHI in Opposing $100 Million Warship Deal With Turkey. The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) joins the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) in encouraging Congressional opposition to a sale of two US Oliver Hazard Perry class frigates to the Turkish military on the grounds that the proposed $100 million arms deal would destabilize the military balance in the Eastern Mediterranean and further contribute to Turkey’s growing economic crisis. February 4.

White House proposes $70 million in US foreign assistance to Armenia; $46 million in assistance to Azerbaijan. February 4.

Rep. Albert Wynn (D-MD) Seeks Support for H.Con.Res.265 – Legislation Praising Turkey’s Role in War on Terrorism. One of several pro-Turkish legislations which praises Turkey for its role in the war on terrorism attracts nominal co-sponsorship. February 7.

Ongoing Human Rights Violations in Turkey: Bill Proposes More Restrictions on Press Freedoms. In a move contrary to the reforms required by the European Union, Turkish authorities proposed a bill that would decrease the already existing limited freedoms of the press. The ANCA ER encourages Armenian Americans to contact Turkey’s Minister of Justice to urge him to bring an end to the limitations on press freedoms in Turkey. February 16.

Armenian, Greek, and Kurdish Americans Voice Concern over Letter Calling for More US Aid to Turkey. The ANCA joins with the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) and the American Kurdish Information Network (AKIN) in expressing their collective reservations regarding a letter signed by nine major Jewish American organizations praising Turkey unconditionally and calling upon President Bush to provide additional economic and military aid to the Turkish government. February 20.

Armenian American Leaders Meet with Senior White House officials. A group of Armenian American leaders meet with senior White House foreign policy advisors on issues of concern to Armenian Americans. Representing the ANCA were ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian and Garo Armenian. February 21.

ANC of Europe Opens Headquarters in Brussels. The Armenian National Committee of Europe (CDCA-Europe) announces the opening of its European headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. The new central office will coordinate Armenian advocacy efforts within the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Council. February 22.

European Parliament Votes: Turkey must recognize Armenian Genocide. The European Parliament adopts a resolution reaffirming that Turkey must recognize the Armenian Genocide before it can join the European Union. February 28.

March 2002

Armenian Genocide photo exhibit in Western Massachusetts. The ANC of Western Massachusetts co-hosts a photo exhibit on the Armenian Genocide at the Jewish Community Center in Springfield. March 3.

Nagorno Karabagh Government Awards Medal to ANCA. The President of the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh (NKR) awards the ANCA with the Mesrob Mashdots Medal, in recognition of the organization’s defense of Nagorno Karabagh’s right to self-determination within secure borders. March 6.

Wisconsin State Senate Adopts Armenian Genocide Resolution. The Wisconsin State Senate passes a resolution introduced by Senators Kimberly Plache, Richard Grobschmidt, Robert Wirch, Robert Welch, Brian Burke, Alberta Darling, Carol Roessler, Robert Cowles and Mary Lazich designating April 24th of each year as “Wisconsin Day of Remembrance for the Armenian Genocide of 1915 to 1923.” March 7.

ANCA calls for increased overall foreign aid spending. The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) joins the Coalition for the Preservation of U.S. Global Leadership in calling on members of the House Budget committee to increase the fiscal year 2003 international affairs account which includes the US foreign aid budget. An increased foreign aid budget could possibly provide more funds for US assistance to Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh.

Illinois Gubernatorial candidates clarify positions on Armenian American issues. Responding to an ANC of Illinois questionnaire regarding candidates positions on various issues of important to the Armenian American community in Illinois, three major gubernatorial candidates promise to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide. Lieutenant Governor Corinne Wood, former Chicago Public Schools Chief Executive Paul Vallas, and Congressman Rod Blagojevich (IL-5) each stated that, if elected, they would issue annual proclamations marking the Armenian Genocide. March 12.

ANC of Richmond Meets With Rep. Eric Cantor. Representatives of the ANC of Richmond meet with Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA 7) in his district office to discuss issues of concern to the Armenian American community and to thank him for his continuous support on issues of special concern to the Armenian American community.

ANCA and National Italian American Foundation welcome creation of Armenia-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group. The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the ANCA welcome the Armenian Parliament’s creation of an Armenia-Italy Friendship Group to promote increased cooperation between the Armenian and Italian governments and peoples. March 28.

April 2002

Over 160 Representatives Co-Sign Letter to President Bush. 162 Members of Congress co-sign the Knollenberg-Pallone letter calling on President Bush to properly commemorate the annihilation of 1.5 million Armenians from 1915-1923 as “genocide,” in his annual April 24th statement.

ANC co-hosts fundraiser for Representative John Sununu. The ANC of Merrimack Valley and Armenian American activist Michael Manoyan co-host a fundraiser luncheon for Representative John Sununu (R-NH), candidate for the US Senate. April 13.

Ongoing human rights violations in Turkey. The ANCA ER encourages Armenian Americans to urge their US Representatives to co-sponsor House Resolution 133, calling for the immediate and unconditional release from prison of Kurdish parliamentarians Leyla Zana, Hatip Dicle, Orhan Dogan, and Selim Sadak. April 13.

35 Members of Congress Attend ANCA’s 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. 35 Members of Congress, Administration officials, foreign diplomats, ethnic community leaders, and representatives of the foreign policy community attend the ANCA’s 8th annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. 101 Members of Congress cosponsor the event with co-hosts Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and George Allen (R-VA) and Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI). April 17.

“I Witness” exhibit on Capitol Hill. Complementing this year’s Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide was a weeklong running of “I Witness,” a photo exhibit by photographers Ara Oshagan and Levon Parian of “The Genocide Project.” The exhibit of portraits of survivors of the Armenian Genocide ran from April 15 to April 19 at the Russell Senate Office Building Rotunda. April 25 – April 29.

ANC FL Urges Fort Lauderdale Mayor to retract historically incorrect proclamation. The ANC of Florida called on Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle to retract an historically inaccurate proclamation following the release of a seemingly innocent Mayoral Proclamation declaring April 23, 2002, “Turkish Heritage and Children’s Day in the City of Fort Lauderdale.” The premise of this official statement was to commemorate the accomplishments of Turkish Americans in their respective communities; however, it deliberately promoted the Turkish government’s state policy of historical denial and distortion. April 22.

President Bush Again Retreats from Pledge to Recognize Armenian Genocide. President George W. Bush, in his second April 24th statement as President, once again breaks his campaign pledge to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide, despite the urging of 162 Members of Congress. April 24.

Over 45 Senate and House Members Speak for Armenian Genocide recognition during floor speeches. A bipartisan group of US Senators and Representatives commemorate the 87th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide during “Special Order” remarks on the House floor and statements on the Senate floor. April 24.

New York Governor Pataki honors 102 year old Armenian Genocide survivor. New York Governor George E. Pataki presents his annual Armenian Genocide proclamation to Lucy Derderian, a 102 year-old survivor of the Armenian Genocide, during an April 25th ceremony at his Manhattan offices. April 25.

ANC of Eastern Massachusetts attends fundraiser for Rep. Michael Capuano. ANC Representatives attended a fundraiser for Representative Michael Capuano (D-MA 8) hosted by local Armenian American activist, Nishan Atinizian. April 26.

May 2002

60 Members of Congress co-sign letter calling for $90 million aid package for Armenia; funding for Nagorno Karabagh. A bipartisan group of 60 legislators join Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Rep. Connie Morella (R-MD) in co-signing a letter calling for “at least $90 million” in U.S. assistance to Armenia, continued military aid for Armenia, as well as additional funds for projects in Nagorno Karabagh. May 9.

ANCA Chairman Submits Testimony to Key House Foreign Aid Panel. ANCA Chairman Ken Hachikian submits testimony to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, outlining key foreign aid concerns of the Armenian American community, including the importance of maintaining US assistance levels to Armenia, securing an additional $10 million a year in US aid to Nagorno Karabagh, and ensuring close scrutiny of President Bush’s waiver of the ban on US assistance to Azerbaijan. May 10.

ANCA Distributes Candidate Questionnaire. The ANCA kicks off its ANCA Candidate Questionnaire by encouraging Armenian Americans to urge local, state, and Congressional officials to express their views on Armenian Genocide recognition, US aid to Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh, and other issues that Armenian Americans and their families care about.

ANC of Eastern MA Honors Rep. Rachel Kaprielian. Mr. and Mrs. Bedig Der Vartanian and the ANC of Eastern Massachusetts host a fundraiser reception for State Representative Rachel Kaprielian. Rep. Kaprielian addresses the attendees on a number issues of local and state importance including an Armenian Genocide curriculum in the state of Massachusetts, the importance of assisting the Republic of Armenia, and the implications of Massachusetts’ impending redistricting. May 19.

NJ Congressional Candidate Garrett Pledges Support for Armenian American Concerns. Responding to the ANCA Candidate Questionnaire, Republican Congressional Candidate Scott Garrett pledges his support on a series of key Armenian American concerns including Congressional initiatives and resolutions to commemorate the Armenian Genocide, US aid, strengthening of Armenia’s independence, and continued developmental and humanitarian aid to Karabagh. May 21.

ANCA ER Protests Latest Incident of Failed Academic Integrity. The ANCA ER protests the decision by New School University President Bob Kerrey to bestow an honorary degree upon long-time Armenian Genocide-denier Professor Bernard Lewis. May 22.

Arbitrary Arrests, Detention, Torture, and Harassment continue in Azerbaijan. Responding to an appeal by the International Secretariat of World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) about a series of arbitrary arrests of members of the opposition engaged in holding protests against the government, the ANCA ER encourages Armenian Americans to contact the Azerbaijani Ambassador to the United States to urge him to help stop human rights violations in Azerbaijan. May 25.

Maine Congressional Candidate Vows Continued Support For Armenian American Issues. Responding to the ongoing ANCA Candidate Questionnaire campaign, Republican Congressional Candidate Stavros J. Mendros pledges his support on a series of key Armenian American issues including Congressional initiatives to properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide, US aid to strengthen Armenia’s independence, continued developmental and humanitarian assistance to Karabagh. Mendros further promised to encourage Turkey and Azerbaijan to lift their illegal blockades of Armenia and Karabagh and also to oppose US taxpayer subsidies for a Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. May 29.

ANCA Chairman Addresses Opening Session Of Armenia-Diaspora Conference. ANCA Chairman Ken Hachikian addresses the opening session of the 2002 Armenia Diaspora Conference outlining the ANCA’s advocacy efforts and the importance of widespread grassroots participation. May 29.

June 2002

ANCs of Massachusetts and The Armenian Review Sponsor Genocide Symposium at Tufts University. The Armenian National Committees of Massachusetts and the Armenian Review sponsor a symposium titled “The Armenian Genocide and Armenian Independence: Implications and Policies” at the Tufts University. Participants include Dr. Henry Theriault, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Worcester State College; Dr. Richard Hovannisian, Professor of Armenian and Near Eastern History at UCLA; Khatchik Derghoukassian, PhD candidate in international relations at the University of Miami; Dr. Stephan Astourian, William Saroyan Visiting Professor in the Department of History at the University of California, Berkeley; and Hratch Zadoian, Vice President of Queens College of the City University of New York. June 2.

Noam Chomsky Addresses ANC Forum on US Policy in West-Central Asia. World-renowned intellectual Noam Chomsky, speaking at an ANC of Eastern Massachusetts forum, analyzes and condemns repressive Turkish, Israeli, and US policies in “West-Central Asia,” likening them to the thuggish tactics of gangsters using force to maintain control. June 7.

Canada’s Senate Recognizes Armenian Genocide. The Senate of Canada, by an overwhelming vote, adopts a motion to recognize the Armenian Genocide. Motion 44 was sponsored by Senator Shirley Maheu and seconded by Senator Raymond C. Setlakwe, both from Quebec. June 13.

2002 ANCA Leo Sarkisian Summer Internship begins. 8 young Armenian Americans arrive in Washington, DC, to begin the 2002 ANCA Leo Sarkissian Summer internship program. June 23.

ANCs of Massachusetts block Department of Education attempt to ignore law on teaching of Armenian Genocide. The ANCs of Massachusetts block another attempt by the Massachusetts Department of Education (DOE) to thwart the teaching of the Armenian Genocide in public schools. The ANC mobilized members of the Armenian-American community to take action. Senator Steven Tolman formally requested that the DOE “immediately stop approval of the new history frameworks scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at the Board of Education’s monthly meeting.” Massachusetts Senate Majority leader Linda Melconian, Rep. Rachel Kaprielian, and Rep. Peter Koutoujian also signed the letter. As a result, the DOE’s curriculum guidelines correctly refers to the “Armenian genocide.”

ANC of Eastern Massachusetts Attends Fundraiser for John Slattery. Representatives of the ANC attend a fundraiser for John Slattery, candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts. The reception was hosted by Rep. Anne M. Paulsen of Belmont and Rep. Rachel Kaprielian of Watertown. June 26.

ANC of RI Hosts Cookout For Congressman Langevin. The ANC of Rhode Island hosts a barbecue for Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), a strong supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. June 30.

July 2002

ANCA on Tour with System of a Down. System of a Down invites the ANCA to set up tables at each of its shows during the OZZFEST tour to distribute educational materials, field questions, and promote discussion about the Turkish government’s ongoing denial of the Armenian Genocide. The ANCA, with the help of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), scheduled volunteers for shows in dozens of cities.

ANC of Illinois Meets with Armenian Caucus Co-Chair. The ANC of Illinois meets with Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Co-Chair of the Armenian Caucus, to discuss a wide variety of issues of special concern to Armenian Americans.

Key Senate Panel Approves $90 Million for Armenia; Continued Aid to Karabagh, and $3.75 Million in Military Aid To Armenia. The US Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations approves a $90 million package for Armenia, an additional $3.75 million in military assistance to Armenia, continued aid to Nagorno Karabagh, and language calling for Turkey to at least partially lift its blockade of Armenia.

Restrictions on Freedom of the Press Continue in Turkey. The ANCA ER, responding to a Reporters without Borders letter sent to Turkish Justice Minister Hikmet Sami Türk regarding the arrest of two journalists, asks Armenian Americans to write the Justice Minister to urge him to address the worsening human rights situation in his country. July 8.

ANCA calls on Congress to Support Increased US-Armenia Trade. In letters sent to members of two key Congressional committees, the ANCA calls for the extension of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a long-standing system that extends duty-free treatment to many products imported from Armenia and over 130 other developing nations. July 17.

ANCA Calls on Deputy Defense Secretary Wolfowitz to Retract Inaccurate Statement on Turkey’s Treatment of Minorities. The ANCA calls on Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz to retract a controversial statement praising Turkey’s historic treatment of minorities, made during a July 14th CNN Turkey interview with journalist Nuri Colakoglu. The ANCA along with thousands of community members voiced their concerns to Secretary Wolfowitz. July 20.

Resolution Marking Anniversary of Genocide Convention, recognizing Armenian Genocide, introduced in Senate. US Senator Robert Torricelli (D-NJ) introduces legislation (S.Res.307) recognizing the 15th anniversary of US implementation of the Genocide Convention as a “principled stand” by the American people “toward ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust, the Armenian Genocide, the genocides in Cambodia and Rwanda, among others, will be used to help prevent future genocides. July 29.

August 2002

Six-week ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program Concludes. The ANCA interns participating in the program were responsible for a specific ANCA project and conducted research, attended press conferences, wrote reports, participated in open lecture forums, and met with members of Congress and Administration officials. Lecture topics ranged from discussion of Armenian foreign policy issues to hands-on seminars geared toward developing key communication and writing skills. August 3.

Rep. Knollenberg Receives Order of Mkhitar Gosh Award. The ANC of Michigan co-chairs a reception for Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) who received the “Order of Mkhitar Gosh” from Arman Kirakossian, Armenia’s Ambassador to the United States. Rep. Knollenberg, the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues in the US House of Representatives, was recognized by Armenian President Robert Kocharian for his efforts to strengthen relations between the United States and the Republic of Armenia. August 19.

ANCA ER Publishes “A Century Of Human Rights Violations In Turkey.” The ANCA ER releases its publication, “A Century of Human Rights Violations in Turkey,” assembling news accounts from throughout the 20th century. August 20.

Turkey Tourism Campaign. Reporters Without Borders publishes a special report and launches a tourist awareness campaign detailing on-going press restrictions in several countries, including Turkey. The report explains, “Cuba, Tunisia and Turkey…Three countries that tourists dream about. This summer, Reporters Without Borders invites you to look on the other side of the picture postcard, to see the hidden face of these countries, where censorship is ever-present . . . In Turkey, you won’t hear any Kurdish music on the air waves. All the product of well-oiled systems of clamping down on dissident voices.” The ANCA ER asks individuals to join this campaign and urge Turkey’s Minister of Justice to help reform the Republic’s human rights practices. August 24.

Michigan Governor signs Armenian Genocide recognition bill. Michigan Governor John Engler (R) signs a bill permanently designating April 24th as “Michigan Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923.” August 27.

September 2002

Representative Robert Simmons Joins Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues. Rep. Robert Simmons (R-CT 2nd) becomes the newest member of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues. Representative Simmons’s entrance into the Caucus raises its membership to 122. September 3.

House Foreign Aid Panel Allocates $84.3 Million for Armenia. A key US House Appropriations panel approves $84.3 million for Armenia in its fiscal year 2003 foreign aid bill, $6.7 million less than the figure appropriated in the Senate version of the bill, but $14.3 million more than the amount proposed by President Bush. September 5.

Rep. Tom Barrett Defeated in Gubernatorial Primary. Wisconsin multi-term Congressman Tom Barrett (D-WI 5) is defeated in the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary. The ANC and local Armenian Americans had opposed his candidacy due to the anti-Armenian stand he took on numerous issues of importance to the community. September 10.

ANC of NJ hosts event for Congressional hopeful Scott Garrett. The ANC of New Jersey hosts a fundraiser-reception at the home of Alex and Talar Sarafian for Scott Garrett, the Republican Congressional Candidate for the 5th District. September 14.

US House panel considers legislation offering broad trade concessions to Turkey. The Trade Subcommittee of the influential House Ways and Means Committee is positioned to consider controversial legislation (H.R.5002) that would dramatically open US markets to a broad range of Turkish products, despite Turkey’s ongoing nine-year blockade of Armenia.

Landmines in Armenia and Karabagh. The ANCA ER encourages individuals to get involved with the ongoing international campaigns to remove landmines from Armenia and Karabagh. September 21.

California-Armenia Trade Office Bill Signed by Governor. California Governor Gray Davis signs a bill establishing a California international trade and investment office in the Republic of Armenia. Senator Jack Scott (D-Pasadena) introduced the legislation and the ANCA-WR engaged in a major grassroots campaign engaging the local ANC chapters and the community. September 25.

ANC of NJ honors Representative Robert Menendez. The ANC of New Jersey hosts a fundraiser for Representative Robert Menendez, Democratic Congressman representing the 13th District. Addressing the gathering, the Congressman discussed the importance of proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Turkey’s dismal human rights record, the US War on Terrorism, and the status of the conflict with Iraq. September 27.

October 2002

ANC of New York Endorses Governor Pataki. The ANC of New York endorses George E. Pataki (R) for the Office of Governor. The endorsement is based on Pataki’s outstanding past record of support on the diverse issues of special concern to Armenian Americans in the state of New York.

Chicago Armenian Americans Meet US Ambassador to Armenia. Ambassador John Ordway, US Ambassador to Armenia, travels to Chicago as part of a trip to the Midwest to meet with Armenian-Americans and to learn of their concerns regarding Armenia. October 3.

Wisconsin Armenian Americans Meet Ambassador Ordway. The ANC of Wisconsin attends luncheon of community leaders and a public reception featuring US Ambassador to Armenia John Ordway, and US Agency for International Development (US AID) Mission to Armenia Director Keith Simmons. October 4.

ANC of Michigan meets with Rep. Knollenberg. The ANC of Michigan meets with Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairman, Representative Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) to discuss issues of concern to the large Armenian American community in Michigan. October 5.

New York Governor commemorates burning of Smyrna. ANC urges thanks. New York Governor George Pataki issues a proclamation commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Turkish government’s burning of the city of Smyrna and persecution of Greeks in Asia Minor. The ANC of New York encouraged New Yorkers to thank the Governor for his consistent support of commemorating and recognizing crimes against humanity. October 6.

ANCA co-hosts Congressional screening of “Ararat.” Members of Congress, foreign diplomats, and representatives of a wide range of think tanks attend a special screening of the film ‘Ararat’ by director Atom Egoyan, organized by the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues and Miramax films, with the support of the ANCA and the Armenian Assembly. October 7.

ANCA ER releases Congressional endorsements for 2002 General Election. The ANCA ER releases its Congressional Endorsements for the November 5, 2002, General Election. The endorsements were based on candidates’ records of support on the diverse issues of concern to Armenian Americans. October 15.

Take A Friend To “Ararat” Campaign. The ANCA ER launches the Take A Friend To “Ararat” campaign to raise public awareness about the film and the Armenian Genocide of 1915. October 16.

Rep. John Conyers Joins Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues. Rep, John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI 14) becomes the newest member of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, bringing its membership to 124. Rep. Conyers is the second most senior Member of the House and is the Ranking Minority Member of the House Judiciary Committee. Rep. Conyers is also one of the founders of the Congressional Black Caucus. October 25.

ANCA ER’s media response campaign. The ANCA ER continues to urge community members to monitor local media and respond when inaccurate news stories appear. October 26.

Washington Times Publishes Letter from ANCA ER. The Washington Times publishes a Letter to the Editor written by ANCA ER Director Arin Gregorian, correcting an opinion piece by Mark R. Parris, former US Ambassador to Turkey and currently a counselor to the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. October 28.

Governor of RI issues historically correct citation following ANC campaign. Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Almond issues a historically correct citation after the ANC of Rhode Island sent a formal letter objecting to the governor’s original statement and calling for it to be withdrawn. The ANC rallied a major statewide grassroots effort focused on setting the historical record straight through phone calls, emails, and faxes to the Governor’s office. October 30.

ANC of Merrimack Valley attends event for Representative Meehan. Representatives of the ANC of Merrimack Valley attend a fundraiser for Representative Marty Meehan (D-MA-5), a long time supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community.

Environmental and human rights groups launch a campaign against Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. A coalition of environmental and human rights groups launch a campaign urging international agencies not to finance the Baku-Cehyan pipeline, saying it would severely damage the region’s fragile ecology. October 30.

Welsh National Assembly commemorates the Armenian Genocide. The National Assembly of Wales holds an official event commemorating the Armenian Genocide. October 30.

TARC is not dead. At a seminar sponsored by Harvard University’s Study Group on Modern Turkey, David Phillips, the moderator of the so-called Turkish Armenian Reconciliation Commission and Deputy Director of the Council on Foreign Relations Center for Preventive Action, announces that TARC is not dead. October 31.

November 2002

Rep. Conyers Meets Detroit Armenian Community; Pledges Support for Armenia. The ANC of Michigan and a coalition of Detroit area Armenian Americans co-host a reception in honor of Congressman John Conyers. November 1.

Israel withdraws intent to seize Armenian church property. After months of negotiations, the Israeli government withdraws its intent of seizing Armenian church property in Bethlehem. The ANCA had mobilized the Armenian American community to raise concern over the troubling expansion of Israeli military control into historically Armenian owned land following the Israeli Army’s seizure of Armenian Church property in the northern outskirts of Bethlehem.

2002 General Elections. State, local, and Congressional elections are held. November 5.

100% of ANC of New York Endorsees are Elected. The ANC of New York reports that 100% of its Congressional and State endorsed candidates were reelected. Governor George E. Pataki, along with 17 Congressional Candidates (13 of which are on the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues), and several state officials won their election. November 5.

ANCA urges Attroney General to Investigate Possible Turkish Spy Ring in State Department. Following a CBS “60 Minutes” report about possible efforts by the Republic of Turkey to spy on the US Department of State and the Pentagon, the ANCA urges Armenian Americans to ask Attorney General John Ashcroft to immediately investigate the report.

Cleveland Plain Dealer publishes letter from ANC of Ohio chairperson. The Cleveland Plain Dealer publishes a Letter to the Editor written by ANC of Ohio Chairperson Krikor Pounardjian written in response to the November 7, 2002 article, “Turkey won’t say if US can use its bases in Iraq war,” by Associated Press writer Louis Meixler. November 14.

Boston Globe prints letter from ANCA ER Director. The Boston Globe prints a Letter to the Editor written by ANCA ER Director Arin Gregorian, in response to the November 18, 2002 opinion-editorial, ” The EU at a crossroads,” by columnist Jonathan Power. November 20.

Southern Illinoisan prints Letter from ANC of Southern Illinois Chairperson. The Southern Illinoisan publishes a Letter to the Editor, written by Steve Hagopian, Chairperson of the ANC of Southern Illinois, written in response to a November 18, 2002 unsigned guest editorial, “Foreign elections: It’s All About Checks, Balances. November 23.

ANCA ER joins efforts to Protect Kurdish Human Rights. Following a report in the New York Times detailing a plan by Turkish officials to send troops into northern Iraq “to prevent an influx of [Kurdish] refugees in the event that a war there sets off a mass movement toward Turkey’s borders,” the ANCA ER urges Armenian Americans to contact Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to urge him to support international laws on the treatment of refugees.

December 2002

Armenia enters World Trade Organization. The World Trade Organization approves the accession package of Armenia to the World Trade Organization, offering Armenia expanded trade opportunities. December 10.

ANCA ER launches High School Sponsor a Book Campaign. The ANCA ER launches a “High School Sponsor A Book” campaign to provide Armenian Genocide related resource materials for students and teachers. December 14.

Bush Administration Revises INS Policy requiring registration of Armenian nationals in the United States. Following a massive ANC-led grassroots campaign, the White House reverses a controversial Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) proposal to include Armenia on a list of countries whose non- immigrant male nationals over the age of 16 would be required to register and report their movements to the INS. December 16.

Representative Edward Markey Visits Armenian American Organizations, Attends Showing of “Ararat.” US Representative Edward Markey (D-MA) tours the Hairenik Building in Watertown, Massachusetts talking with several Armenian American organizations. Later in the day, the Congressman, accompanied by two of his staffers and ANCA ER Director Arin Gregorian attends a showing of “Ararat.” December 16.

ANCA ER Responds to USA Today Editorial. USA Today publishes a Letter to the Editor written by ANCA ER Director Arin Gregorian in response to the December 16, 2002 editorial, “Don’t give up on Turkey.” December 19.

Armenian Caucus asks Attorney General to explain Armenia’s mistaken inclusion and subsequent removal from I.N.S. list. The Congressional Armenian Caucus asks the US Attorney General to explain how Armenia was initially ‘mistakenly’ included in an Immigration and Naturalization Service (I.N.S.) program that would have required all non-immigrant Armenian males legally working or studying in the United States to take part in an extensive registration process. December 20.