Ivan Boesky, Bernie Madoff and Lou Pearlman are convicted fraudsters who stole millions from innocent investors and clients. Does this mean all Jewish men are thieves and hucksters?
Al Capone, Lucky Luciano and John Gotti were mob bosses. Does this mean all Italians are mafiosi?
Liam O’Flaherty, Brendan Behan and Shane McGowan were alcoholics. Does this mean every Irish writer is a drunk?
The answer to each question is obviously “no.”
I do not know what is true or untrue about the scams allegedly perpetrated by Somali Americans in Minnesota. The allegations are serious, the numbers staggering and the case needs to be fully investigated and all perpetrators prosecuted.
But I also know that, no matter the scope of this investigation, to suddenly paint all Somali citizens as criminals is absurd. To call them “garbage” is revolting and more proof positive that the president is unfit for office and should be removed by the 25th Amendment.
Bruce Pratt
Swanville
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