American Hellenic Institute Statement on the Passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy


WASHINGTON, DC—The American Hellenic Institute expresses its deep sorrow on the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Senator Kennedy has left an indelible mark on Capitol Hill where he served with distinction for almost fifty years. His well known advocacy on behalf of the less fortunate will be his lasting legacy and will serve to remind us all of the compassion he displayed toward his fellow man.

Senator Kennedy could also be counted on to be a supporter on issues regarding U.S. relations with Greece and Cyprus. In the early years of the Cyprus issue he chaired the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee to Investigate Problems Connected With Refugees and Escapees which issued three important and historic reports: (1) on October 14, 1974, Crisis on Cyprus: 1974; (2) on July 20, 1975, Crisis on Cyprus, 1975: One Year After the Invasion; and (3) on January 19, 1976, Crisis on Cyprus 1976: Crucial Year For Peace regarding Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus and the plight of the refugees in Cyprus which served to raise awareness of the human suffering amongst the people of Cyprus and the illegal invasion by Turkey. In addition, he supported the rule of law arms embargo legislation against Turkey.

The AHI extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and staff.

May His Memory Be Eternal!

(Posting date 2 September 2009)


For more information about the American Hellenic Institute in Washington, D.C., contact Georgia Economou, Director of Public Relations for AHI, at (202) 785-8430 or at georgia@ahiworld.org, or visit the groups' website at http://www.ahiworld.org. AHI was founded in 1974 following Turkey's illegal invasion and occupation of 37.3% of Cyprus. It is a membership-based organization with members throughout the nation. AHI's core mission is to promote American values and the rule of law in U.S. foreign policy and to strengthen relations between the U.S. and Greece and Cyprus as being in the best interests of the United States. It conducts an active program with Congress in espousing and supporting legislation designed to promote American interests in Southeast Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean and is registered with the Congress under the Lobbying Act. The AHI Foundation is the first think-tank devoted exclusively to the study of the issues confronting the Greek American community. This organization sponsors conferences, seminars and publishes books and other materials on the issues.

HCS maintains an extensive archives for AHI articles and press releases which visitors may browse under the American Hellenic Institute Releases section of the archives at http://www.helleniccomserve.com/archiveahi.html.




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