Investigation Launched into Alleged Bank Account Closures Based on Armenian Heritage in Los Angeles

Los Angeles officials have launched an investigation into allegations that bank accounts have been closed or restricted based on individuals' perceived Armenian heritage. The Los Angeles Civil Rights + Human Rights and Equity Department, along with other law enforcement agencies, is encouraging people to come forward if they believe their accounts were unfairly targeted due to their ethnicity, particularly those with last names ending in "-yan" or "-ian."

The investigation was announced on Wednesday, as reports surfaced suggesting that some banks may have been involved in discriminatory practices, such as closing or restricting accounts without legitimate reasons. These actions appear to have disproportionately affected individuals with Armenian backgrounds, raising concerns of national origin discrimination.

Capri Maddox, the executive director of the LA Civil Rights Department, stated, "We need the community's help to fully understand the scope of this potential discrimination against the Armenian community in L.A." She added, "Your experience can help us ensure equal access to financial services in Los Angeles."

In a statement to The Armenian Report, Arminak Law said, “We are proud to be a part of the Los Angeles city attorney’s investigation into Citibank’s discriminatory conduct against Armenian Americans. The widespread discrimination by Citibank against our proud Armenian American community in Los Angeles was not only despicable it was unlawful and our firm is committed to seeking justice for our entire aggrieved community. If you believe that you’ve been discriminated by CitiBank or any other bank because of your Armenian heritage, contact Arminak Law.”

Both the department and a private law firm, in collaboration with the Armenian Bar Association, are reaching out to the Armenian community in Los Angeles to gather more information about the situation. They are urging anyone who believes they have been impacted by this practice to file a claim or share relevant details that could assist the investigation.

According to officials, victims may have had their bank accounts closed or restricted because of their surname or ethnicity, without any clear or reasonable justification. These actions, if proven, could be a violation of local civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination based on national origin.

The LA Civil Rights Department is providing resources for victims to file a claim. Individuals who think they may have been victims of this discrimination within the past three years are encouraged to visit LAisForEveryone.com, call (213) 978-1845, or contact the department directly to file a claim. The filing process is free, and those who file claims are still allowed to pursue lawsuits related to the issue if they choose to do so.

The department has also made language translation services available to ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds can participate in the investigation and share their experiences.

This investigation comes as part of the city's ongoing efforts to ensure fair treatment and equal access to services for all its residents, regardless of national origin. If the claims are substantiated, they would highlight a concerning pattern of discrimination against a specific ethnic group within the financial sector.

As the investigation continues, officials are hopeful that victims will come forward to help uncover the truth and hold any responsible parties accountable. The city’s commitment to civil rights will guide the process, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their heritage, can access financial services without fear of discrimination.

For those who believe they may have been impacted or have information that could help with the investigation, the LA Civil Rights Department urges them to file a claim and get involved in seeking justice.