The Assyrian Democratic Organization
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Bret Ladine
June 13, 2003 (202) 225-6131
WASHINGTON – Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced, introduced a resolution this week expressing concern for the status of Assyrians in post-war Iraq in an effort to draw attention to the plight of the two million Assyrians who were oppressed and not officially recognized under the regime of Saddam Hussein.
Cardoza, along with the resolution’s broad list of bipartisan original co-sponsors, also sent a letter today to President Bush, encouraging official recognition of the Assyrian community in the new Iraq government.
“Assyrians deserve to have a voice in shaping the future of Iraq – something they have been denied for decades,” Cardoza said. “Assyrians paid a heavy price under Saddam Hussein. Not giving them adequate representation in the new government would be a grave injustice.”
The bill introduced Thursday by Cardoza calls for Assyrians to be entitled to freedom of religion, with the right to celebrate their culture, and supports consultation with Assyrian leaders in discussions regarding the future government of Iraq.
Specifically, the bill urges President Bush to instruct the Secretary of State and Ambassador to the United Nations to work to ensure that the rights and concerns of Assyrians are upheld in ongoing debates over the new government in Iraq.
“I heartily commend Congressman Cardoza for his commitment, compassion and concerted efforts to support the Iraqi-Assyrian minority in their rightful quest for inclusion in the ‘new Iraq,'” said Lazar Piro, President of the Assyrian National Council of Stanislaus County.
The 18th Congressional District contains one of the largest Assyrian populations in the United States. The Assyrians are a distinct, indigenous people of Mesopotamia. Under Saddam Hussein, Assyrians were referred to simply as “Christian Arabs.” They opposed the Hussein regime, and as a result, many Assyrian leaders were assassinated.
< Bret Ladine Press Secretary Rep. Dennis Cardoza 503 Canon House Office Building (202) 225-6131
