It’s A Sad Day In Sunland-Tujunga
In a small community such as Sunland-Tujunga, bigotry exists today. I am referring to a letter published locally that should never have been published. This town has been riddled with hate and prejudice for years; many know our history.

Sunland-Tujunga is one big melting pot; there should be no room for racism or discrimination. When one points to another, referring to them as a particular race, it’s obvious there is hate in their heart.

The writer referred to gentlemen she witnessed picking some kind of shrubbery while hiking Mt. Lukens trails. She mentioned that they were of Armenian descent and were taking the shrubbery to “little Armenian markets popping up” to sell. Hmmm … that sounds as though she is annoyed by these businesses that are merely practicing free enterprise.

How did you know these gentlemen were Armenian? Was it their behavior? The way they dressed or spoke? Perhaps you speak Armenian? Did you also follow these gentlemen to the “little Armenian markets” and witness the sale or did you just assume that they all make their living this way?

I agree that these mountains and hiking trails are our sanctuary. I have personally hiked in Tujunga and La Crescenta. Not once did I see vegetation growing that would be sold in Armenian markets. I know people who have picked a handful of herbs for medicinal reasons; if you consider this “destruction” and think you can get someone arrested, knock yourself out.

I am Armenian and very proud of my heritage – as everyone should be. I came to this country assuming all rights, privileges, entitlements that this country has to offer. Freedom and equality is absolutely our right. There are people everywhere who take for granted all our country offers and may think they are above the law. These people are of different ethnicities, colors, creeds, etc. They should be judged for what they did, not their nationality.

I’ve lived in Tujunga for 25 years and donated countless hours to different organizations for the good of Sunland-Tujunga. I have seen this town grow, evolve and flourish.

I found certain contents of this writer’s letter offensive and discriminatory. Though everyone has the right to verbalize their opinions, no one has the right to point their finger to any particular group of people. That is considered racism and the writer should apologize.

Sonia Tatulian
Tujunga

  Sonia Tatulian