March 5, 2019
Issue: Fighting Bigotry
Muslim Civil Rights Group Calls for Withdrawal of Congressional Resolution Targeting Rep. Ilhan Omar
References to Anti-Muslim Bigotry Cannot Redeem It
Washington, DC — The following is a statement from Farhana Khera, executive director of Muslim Advocates, on the congressional resolution targeting Rep. Ilhan Omar:
“Anti-Muslim bigotry and hypocritical double standards are a driving force behind the proposed resolution condemning Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. Adding references to anti-Muslim bigotry in this resolution cannot redeem it. The anti-Semitic tropes that she is being accused of and worse have been recited time and again by members of Congress like Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Rep. Jim Jordan, Rep. Matt Gaetz and President Trump, yet none of these men were subjected to a congressional resolution of disapproval nor the widespread attacks like the ones directed at Rep. Omar. American Muslims in public service are routinely attacked as anti-woman, anti-LGBTQ, and anti-Semitic and, by even considering this resolution, Congress is perpetuating this effort to marginalize and silence American Muslim public officials and intimidate American Muslims from exercising their basic constitutional rights. This resolution cannot be redeemed and must be withdrawn outright.”
Muslim Advocates is a national civil rights organization working in the courts, in the halls of power and in communities to halt bigotry in its tracks. We ensure that American Muslims have a seat at the table with expert representation so that all Americans may live free from hate and discrimination.
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