"We are pleased to be supporting Laura Richardson," commented ANC-PAC spokesperson Ara Papazian. "The Armenian American community in the 37th Congressionally District [which includes most of Long Beach and Compton] is enthusiastically looking forward to voting for her so she can start addressing their hopes and concerns in Washington. Clearly, our community is appreciative that Laura has pledged to join efforts to end Turkey's denial of the Armenian Genocide," Papazian added.

In a letter issued by Richardson's campaign last month she remarked: "If elected to Congress, I will be proud to add my name to the long and distinguished list of H. Res. 106 cosponsors. We need to formally recognize this unfortunate chapter of history, so as to prevent any future genocides and promote regional stability."

Assemblywoman Laura Richardson began her legislative career in 2000 after winning three unprecedented elections in her bid for the Long Beach City Council. As a Councilmember, Richardson worked directly with community leaders, businesses, residents and city officials to initiate and support legislative and administrative policies that enhanced the vitality and livability of the community she represented.

On the City Council, Richardson was instrumental in securing funding for alley maintenance by the City of Long Beach and initiated the planning process for a Senior Transportation Program. She advocated for the first ever 50 million dollar commitment for economic, open space and housing development and created critical outreach programs and events designed to motivate, inspire and empower city residents. Additionally, Laura worked to bring the first new bank to the Central Area of Long Beach since the 1992 riots and is responsible for opening the first job training center for working families in the inner city.

In addition to her duties on the council, Richardson served as Southern California Director for Lieutenant Governor Cruz Bustamante from 2001 to 2005. At the time, Lieutenant Governor Bustamante was the second highest Latino elected official in the United States.

Individuals who would like to attend the ANC-PAC's event in support of Laura Richardson, which will be held on August 19th at 5:30 p.m., are encouraged to contact the ANC-PAC at (818) 571-0320.

The ANC-PAC is a non-partisan federally registered political action committee established to support campaign committees for Members of Congress who share the values of the Armenian American community. The ANC-PAC is at the forefront of efforts to ensure that the voice of the Armenian American community is clearly heard in our nation's capital. The ANC-PAC continues a century old tradition of Armenian Americans engagement on the public policy issues facing national political leaders, both in the U.S. Congress and the White House.