Washington, DC – ANCA Leo Sarkisian Summer intern Tamar Meguerditchian from New Orleans, LA was invited to speak with Rep. Bobby Jindal (R-LA) Tuesday, June 28th at his office on the Hill. A local community activist in Rep. Jindal’s district, Meguerditchian helped lay the foundation upon which Louisiana’s Armenian Americans can create an open relationship with their representative.

“I was grateful for the opportunity to solidify a relationship and friendship with Rep. Jindal – one which could then foster a stronger bond between the Congressman and Louisiana Armenians, giving us a stronger voice in government,” stated Meguerditchian. “As an active member of his Indian American community, Rep. Jindal understands the importance of ongoing activism and our mission to increase community involvement in the legislative process.”

ANCA Government Affairs Director Kate Nahapetian accompanied Meguerditchian at the meeting, where the two discussed various legislative issues with the Congressman, including the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H. Res. 316), the Turkish blockade of Armenia, and the Darfur Genocide Accountability Act (H. R. 1424). Meguerditchian expressed her community’s ongoing efforts to expand trade and improve relations between Armenia and the U.S

Rep. Jindal is the first Indian American to be elected to Congress in the last 50 years. A Congressman with an “Open Door” policy, his constituents include residents of Metairie, Kenner, New Orleans and Slidell, Louisiana. First elected in 2004, Rep. Jindal serves on the Education & Workforce, Homeland Security and Resources committees.