It is truly deplorable how respect and tolerance for human beings can
be seen as unpatriotic. Lowering the flag in remembrance of the Armenian
Genocide is out of respect and recognition of Armenian Americans and
their contributions to Glendale and the United States.
We are the business leaders in Glendale. We love this city and have
strong bonds with our community. Armenian Americans have made an impact
on every aspect of American cultural life, in politics, arts and
entertainment. William Saroyan, Arshille Gorky, George Deukmejian, Andre
Agassi ... the list goes on.
As a member of the Armenian-American community and a longtime Glendale
resident, I am ashamed and angry at Iva Carrico's comments. Lowering the
American flag out of respect for members of a large and multiethnic
community is in no way unpatriotic. I am tired of seeing patriotism
touted with arrogance. Saying that lowering the flag "is an action of
mercenary proportions" is saying that tolerance and respect are virtues
to be shunned.
We celebrate Cinco de Mayo and St. Patrick's Day, traditions based on
celebrations of Mexican and Irish Americans. These celebrations have
become part of the American tradition, and consequently, we know more
about their history. Why not recognize a dark chapter of history as well?
History has a way of repeating itself. When Hitler was carrying on the
Holocaust, he made a comment, "Who remembers the genocide of Armenians?"
His actions resulted in the murder of 8 million Jews.
I am an Armenian American, and the flag represents my traditions as
well as all those of all other Americans. Lowering it shows respect for a
large community and goes on to educate others about its history.
Knowledge is power, and can bridge the gap between the different
communities. Carrico's comments represent the worst in us. Ignorance is
the root of all evil, and Carrico's comments are truly ignorant.
ELIZA SHAMSIAN
Glendale
