–Enthusiasm builds toward nationwide Telethon on May 21
WASHINGTON–DC–Communities across the nation have begun a major mobilization effort in support of the first ever nationwide telethon for the Armenian Cause to be broadcast on May 21. The groundbreaking initiative’s purpose is to propel the Armenian Cause and issues facing the Armenian American community to a new level of success. Organized by the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA)–the proceeds from the national telethon will go toward broadening the scope and resources with which major Armenian issues are pursued within the halls of Congress–the White House–and state and local governmen’s around the country.
"We are fortunate to enjoy the support–confidence–and enthusiasm of the vibrant and growing grassroots network of Armenian Americans around the nation," said Aram Hamparian–Executive Director of the ANCA’s Washington–DC headquarters office. "We are making major strides on all fronts and have those who oppose justice for the Armenian nation on the run. Now is the time to put more resources behind our efforts which will raise the stakes and score major victories for our people."
Communities across the country heeded the call to action several months ago as the ANCA Telethon planning process began. Today there is a major public awareness campaign underway in every Armenian community and logistical details have been put into place so that the Telethon will be broadcast wherever there are Armenia’s in the US as well as on the Internet. Utilizing many different technologies–the Telethon will perhaps mark the most ambitious effort in the history of the Armenian American community to boost advocacy efforts for the Armenian Cause.
Pledges for financial support are gathering steam as churches–community centers–schools–and a broad-based coalition of community organizations have mobilized members of the community in support of the Telethon. "This is a historic moment as we look to invest more deeply in strengthening our communities here in the US," said Aram Sarafian–member of the ANCA Eastern Region Board of Directors. "By increasing the resources we put behind our efforts here in the US we will achieve greater victories in securing justice for the Armenian genocide–defending the rights of our communities–and ultimately securing the freedom and future of Armenia and Karabagh."
One of the ways the ANCA Telethon is reaching out to the community is by phone. Thousands of phone calls are being made every week to notify members of the community that the Telethon will be taking place and asking that people tune in to their local television broadcast. To make a pledge for the Telethon in advance–call (866) 402-ANCA.