Los Angeles, CA –Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) members from across the Western United States are vigorously working to ensure the passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution – H. RES. 252 – as the House Foreign Affairs Committee prepares to mark-up the measure on March 4th. The AYF’s “Teachathon 252” campaign seeks to educate the community about what they can do to strengthen community and Congressional support for the measure.

“We are proud that AYF members can play a key role in promoting awareness of the genocide resolution and rallying support for H. Res. 252 in Congress,” remarked AYF Central Executive Chairperson Arek Santikian. “AYF members have been engaged in advancing the Armenian Cause for 77 years, since our organization’s founding in 1933. We will channel our intellect and energy into this campaign and move our Cause forward,” he added.

The “Teachathon 252” campaign will engage all 14 chapters of the AYF Western Region, from San Francisco, California to Houston, Texas, to conduct grassroots outreach, phone banking, coalition building and petition drives. Efforts are focused primarily in Texas through the “Dro” Chapter and in the Arizona through the “Kedashen“ Chapter, where there are a significant number of Representatives who serve on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Members of these AYF chapters have already been active in encouraging their communities to write to their Representatives, demanding passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution.

“We are impressed with the dedication of AYF members who understand the power of grassroots activism,” commented ANC-WR Government Relations Director Lerna Shirinian. “AYF members reflect the best of a new generation of Armenian American leaders who will be the strongest of advocates for the Armenian Cause.”

Founded in 1933, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), with chapters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, has grown to become the largest and most influential Armenian American youth organization. Inspired by the past and motivated by the needs of the future, the AYF actively strives to advance the social, political, educational and cultural awareness of all Armenian youth. For more information about the AYF, please visit www.AYFwest.org.

The Armenian National Committee – Western Region is the largest Armenian American grassroots community organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANC-WR works to promote understanding regarding issues of concern to the Armenian American community.