Glendale, CA – Over thirty members of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) were present at the fourth public policy forum organized by the Armenian National Committee – Western Region (ANC-WR) on May 21, 2008. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s re-election campaign director, Areen Ibranossian, was invited to speak to the attendees regarding his experiences within public service and the importance of youth activism at the local, state, and federal levels.

“It is truly my pleasure to engage in a meaningful and spirited discussion with members of the AYF and ANC,” stated Ibranossian. “Activism and political engagement amongst Armenian youth is an essential and fundamental component of advancing issues of importance to Armenian Americans. The ANC and AYF are pivotal in providing opportunities for young Armenian Americans to get engaged and involved in public service and I commend them all for taking the initiative to make their voices heard,” he added.

Ibranossian provided an interactive session where AYF members were able to ask questions and gain insight to the functions of a political campaign. Ibranossian spoke of his personal experiences working for Villaraigosa’s campaign and the valuable knowledge that he has gained over the years.

“I feel it is very important for AYF members and all Armenian American youth, such as myself, to be involved in local politics,” said AYF Central Executive member Marita Medzachian.

The fourth installment of the monthly ANC-WR public policy forum encourages attendees to take a proactive role and stronger interest in their local communities and government affairs.

The Armenian National Committee – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy 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 advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Photo caption: AYF members at ANC-WR Forum.