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CONGRESSMAN CROWLEY TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION CONDEMNING HRANT DINK'S

Politics

Washington, DC - Armenian Caucus Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-NY) will introduce a resolution in the House of Representatives this week condemning the assassination of Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink on January 19, 2007 in Istanbul, Turkey.

The resolution calls on the House to strongly condemn and deplore the tragic murder of Hrant Dink and urge Turkey to continue its investigation and prosecution of those individuals responsible for his murder. Furthermore, the legislation urges Turkey to take appropriate action to protect freedom of speech in Turkey by repealing Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code, which criminalizes public discussion on the Armenian Genocide.

A similar resolution is expected to be introduced in the Senate later this week.

Dink, who worked hard to foster dialogue and understanding between Armenian and Turks, stood trial several times for his public comments on the genocide and was convicted in October 2006 for "insulting Turkishness" under this much-criticized law. He received a six-month suspended sentence and was set to appear in court again in March 2007 for affirming the Armenian Genocide.

"The Assembly thanks Congressman Crowley for introducing legislation condemning this heinous crime," said Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "Hrant Dink was a courageous champion of human rights and tolerance and strong advocate for democratic change. His death should serve as a wake up call for Turkey to take a closer look at the internal changes within its society. The U.S. must also redouble its efforts and urge the Turkish government to more than pay lip service about reforming its laws."

"It is past time for Turkey to take serious steps to reform its laws before another individual loses his life for speaking the truth," Ardouny continued.

The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. It is a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt membership organization.