Los Angeles Launches Civil Rights Probe into Alleged Banking Discrimination Against Armenian-Americans

Los Angeles Launches Civil Rights Probe into Alleged Banking Discrimination Against Armenian-Americans

In a significant development for civil rights and the Armenian-American community, the City of Los Angeles has opened an investigation into alarming reports of discriminatory banking practices targeting individuals with Armenian surnames. Sparked by a wave of complaints involving sudden account closures and denials of service, the probe reflects growing concerns over systemic bias within the U.S. financial sector. This LA Times report sheds light on the unfolding investigation, the community’s response, and how city officials—including the Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department—are urging affected residents to come forward. The Armenian Genocide Museum of Canada supports public awareness of this case, which echoes broader patterns of Armenophobia in modern institutions.