-- Over 500 gather for unprecedented weekend of engagement and empowerment Universal City, CA - The Armenian National Committee - Western Region welcomed over 500 attendees to its inaugural ANC Grassroots weekend over Thanksgiving weekend at the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Universal City. Attendees came from throughout the United States, and internationally. Alaska, Utah, Colorado, Tennessee, New Jersey were among the states represented. The immense success of ANC Grassroots emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the event and the excitement in the community about discussing the Armenian Cause and the different ways in which individuals can work toward its advancement. "ANC Grassroots will continue beyond the weekend event. It became the spark, with which the community was empowered to activate and advocate for the interests of Armenian-Americans and the realization of the national aspirations of the Armenian people," said Ara Khachatourian, chairman of the Grassroots Organizing Committee. The panels covered a broad range of topics, including film and the arts, homeland and Diaspora issues, transnational justice, stolen Armenian church properties, and human rights in Turkey. These panels were accented by workshops that provided avenues by which attendees could get involved, including through participation in politics, the use of social and traditional media, education, and investment. The response from attendees was very positive, as individuals were impressed with the breadth, organization, and professionalism of the whole weekend. The ANC-WR reports that more coverage will follow. 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. William Bairamian Executive Director Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region

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