GLENDALE — Appointed by President Barack Obama and confirmed unanimously by the United States Senate to one of the most elite federal positions, United States Attorney André Birotte Jr. was the featured speaker at a standing room-only gathering organized by the Armenian Bar Association on February 24.
With more than 200 judges, lawyers and law students in attendance at the Phoenicia restaurant in Glendale, the Armenian Bar Association recognized Birotte for his dedication to public service and for his sustained commitment and contributions to law enforcement, victims’ and civil rights, public integrity and the legal profession.
In the words of Armenian Bar Association Chairman Edvin Minassian, “The enthusiastic response of the capacity crowd reflects the Association’s deep devotion to professional excellence and, just as importantly, to our firm commitment to the Armenian community and to the rule of law.”
Minassian expressed his organization’s resolve and successful results in acting as the community’s gatekeeper for the protection of its rights and the education about its responsibilities.
Garo Ghazarian, Armenian Bar Association vice chairman, and dean of the People’s College of Law, served as master of ceremonies with a smooth blend of humor and respectfulness. The gathering was addressed by Minassian, Board members Hovanes Margarian and Assistant United States Attorney John J. Lulejian, who delivered an inspiring introduction of Birotte.
Rising to the podium to a rousing ovation, Birotte singled out the Armenian Bar Association for its unique and valuable leadership position in legal and local institutions and causes. “It is important to work with our community,” said Birotte and continuing with “coming from Haiti, I would always remember the emblem associated with their flag, ‘With unity we build strength,’ and this is a statement that lives with me today, and will continue to. That saying has been a major guideline in my life, and a major guideline we work by.”
