LOS ANGELES–The Armenian National Committee-Political Action Committee announced on Tuesday–May 15–its endorsement of former California State Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa’s candidacy for the office of Mayor of the City of Los Angeles.
Villaraigosa–who has been a long-time public servant–has an impressive record of accomplishmen’s as a legislator and community advocate. With a strong record of advocacy on issues of concern to the Armenian American community of California in general–but particularly to Armenian Americans who reside within Los Angeles proper–Villaraigosa has been a continuous champion of the proper affirmation and recognition of the Armenian Genocide. At the same time–the former State Assembly leader has made fair representation and the inclusion of the diverse Los Angeles community a cornerstone of his years of public service–and his current campaign.
"Antonio Villaraigosa has the right qualities and the right energy to lead our city for the next four years," explained Karo Khanjian–Chairman of the ANC-Hollywood Chapter. "Our endorsement process was particularly difficult–given the exceptional records of both Jim Hahn and Antonio Villaraigosa on Armenian American issues. Both candidates have been good friends of our community and our choice certainly is not meant to diminish the valuable work of Jim Hahn and his service to Los Angeles."
With a campaign platform highlighted by some of the most pressing issues in Los Angeles–including crime prevention–education–and housing–Villaraigosa has also committed to representing all segmen’s of the Los Angeles community–including the large and prospering Armenian American community–which spans from Hollywood–to the eastern portions of the San Fernando Valley–to Encino and west San Fernando Valley and Tujunga.
"We hope to continue our strong relationship with Mr. Villaraigosa–in working to make our neighborhoods and communities safer and stronger," said Khanjian. "We also look forward to expanding on our mutual commitmen’s as stakeholders in the city of Los Angeles to ensure that all LA residents are represented equally and fairly in city government."
Los Angeles elections will take place on Tuesday–June 5–2001. Armenian Americans are encouraged to cast their ballots for Antonio Villaraigosa as the next Mayor of Los Angeles.