Garbis Korajian
I am a fourth generation Ethiopian-Armenian and, like many Armenians who lived in Ethiopia, my grandparents took refuge in Ethiopia after the Armenian Genocide. Those Armenians who were fortunate enough to have escaped the Turkish atrocities and mass murders of the early 20th century repatriated to different countries around the world. Ethiopia was a country that provided unconditional support and welcomed Armenians with open arms. We lived and prospered in Ethiopia where we maintained our institutions such as our churches, schools and community centers without any interference from the Government of Ethiopia and its citizens. We were treated as brothers and sisters and lived a good life. Although I now live in Canada, I still have a lot of love for Ethiopia and the people. Therefore, I find it necessary to say a few words about the current mistreatment of Ethiopians in the Gulf States including Saudi Arabia which has been the focus of despicable mistreatment of Ethiopians. For various reasons, mostly economic, today’s young Ethiopians are traveling abroad looking for better opportunities of life through employment. For women, this is mostly domestic help and for men, it would be construction or any other job they can find. Needless to say, life for Ethiopians looking for work and to survive in these countries is not easy. On top of these hardships, the Ethiopians who are law abiding and hard working members of society are facing persecution beyond anyone’s imagination. There is no justification for such cruel behavior.
It is important to remember that one day, the citizens and its descendants from the countries that are committing such atrocities on helpless Ethiopians may very well seek refuge in Ethiopia as was done 1500 years ago. As always, what goes around always comes around. Do not forget your history vis-a-vis Ethiopia and stop mistreating our Ethiopian brothers and sisters living in your country. Start treating them with decency and respect.
Garbis Korajian
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