Stopping the finger-pointing

Several readers approached me about issues ? or perceived issues ? raised recently on our Community Forum pages concerning the Armenian community.

I was asked why there is reckless driving among Armenian youth or why fraud is an acceptable and common form of crime in the community.

I don’t think there is really an easy answer to any of these questions.

The Armenian community, like any other immigrant group, is subject to stereotypes. The negative actions of Armenians contribute to the ever growing list of stereotypes. Naturally, Armenians with positive attributes do not want to be associated with these stereotypes.

I have known numerous Armenian families that have been law abiding, honest and hard working people. They have come to this country to pursue a better life. They have obtained an education, secured employment and have made an effort to contribute to their communities and society at large.

There is no denying that many Armenians have also established themselves by relying on government handouts. They have even broken the law and become negligent to others.

I am not one to defend, tolerate or even excuse those who have done wrong. Any criminal act or irresponsible behavior on behalf of Armenians (or any member of the community) is unacceptable.

But the fact remains that certain actions of the dishonest and unlawful members of the Armenian community tend to create a negative stigma about the Armenian populous.

Of course honest and good-natured Armenians refuse to be categorized with the dishonest, unlawful ones.

So what is to be done about the negative stigma?

Allow me to make a suggestion.

The stereotypes should not be completely disregarded. Every time I hear the same old Armenian stereotypes, I don’t take offense.

Instead, I think about the actions of the Armenian community and how they reflect those stereotypes.

Stereotypes can actually be helpful in identifying some of the problematic issues in the Armenian community.

If fraud, or reckless driving among youth, are noted as problems in the community, then maybe Armenian community leaders and other prominent figures should take into account these issues and work to find a solution.

Maybe the finger pointing would cease.