Assemblyman Mike Gatto joined with people of Armenian descent around California and the world in calling for the United States to recognize the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic as a sovereign state. The resolution, AJR 32, invokes strong language from the United States' own history regarding the rights of the people to "self-determination and democratic independence", Azatutyun.am reported referring to the Armenian Council of America.
If Gatto's resolution passes, it would make California the most populous governmental entity to call for Nagorno-Karabakh recognition, or to recognize it outright.
Three organizations that have already expressed support for the legislation are the Armenian Council of America (ACA), the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), and the Unified Young Armenians (UYA).
Assemblyman Gatto has worked closely with each of these organizations on legislation he has authored in the past, including a resolution calling for U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide and on legislation extending the statute of limitations for victims of the genocide to file insurance claims. The Assemblyman has also supported events sponsored by each organization, including their stellar efforts to raise money for Armenians in need around the world. "The community is united in support of recognizing Nagorno-Karabakh," stated Gatto.
"It has been my privilege on this resolution to work with the leaders of the local Armenian American community and their outstanding representatives," said Gatto. "I am especially honored to introduce this legislation on a day when Armenians around the world are celebrating Christmas with family and loved ones."