New York, NY- With a week to go, the Armenian National Committee of America, Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) is expected to reach a capacity of over 300 attendees for the first annual ANCA-ER banquet which is to take place on September 22 at the Waldorf- Astoria in New York City.

“We are delighted that supporters of the ANCA throughout the region will be present at the banquet,” commented Zohrab Tazian, ANCA-ER Banquet Chairman. “It will be a wonderful opportunity for activists to come together for an unforgettable evening.” Attendees from throughout the region including activists from California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington, DC will be present that evening.

The event’s theme-‘Building the Foundation for a Secure Future’- will highlight the organization’s accomplishments and current activities. The evening will also include an awards portion featuring US Ambassador John Evans, who will receive the ANCA-ER Freedom Award. Given to those showing extraordinary courage and devotion to freedom and justice, the Freedom Award is especially suited to John Evans, who was prematurely recalled from his post as US Ambassador to Armenia because of his remarks in 2005 openly acknowledging the Armenian Genocide.

The evening will also honor Vahe Amirian, a New Jersey activist, with the ANCA-ER ‘Vahan Cardashian’ award. Dedicating over 50 years of his life to the Armenian Cause, Amirian was, and still is, a prominent leader, embracing governmental lobbying, public awareness, and mobilizing community members toward increased activism. In the process, he mentored a generation of younger activists who today are at the forefront of Armenian political activism.

The banquet will take place on Saturday, September 22nd at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. Cocktail hour begins at 6:30 pm with a silent auction and dinner and program to follow. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to have time to enjoy the various items on display for auction.

The silent auction, will feature items such as gorgeous Tufenkian carpets, a collection of jewelry from Carolyn Rafaelian’s Alex and Ani collection, 4 star New York restaurant gift certificates, items from Michael Aram’s collection, two tickets to the Armenian Heritage Cruise, a two week campership at Camp Haiastan, and much more!

For more information on sponsorship opportunities and reservations, please call 917-428-1918 or email erbanquet@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.