WASHINGTON, DC – This week, as we enter into the second month of an increasingly dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reports have announced a horrific statistic: more than 11,000 lives have been lost as a result of the escalating violence.
The bloodshed includes more than 1,000 Israeli civilians targeted by Hamas during its Oct. 7 terror attack and more than 10,000 Palestinian people who have been killed during Israel’s subsequent ground and air military campaign. The victims include women, children, elders, and people seeking safe haven across multiple refugee camps. These numbers grow with each passing minute, as the bombings continue and critical resources like water, medicine, and fuel run out.
This human suffering must end, and it must end now.
As an organization founded in the aftermath of war, genocide, and displacement nearly 45 years ago, SEARAC denounces these atrocities, and we urgently call on the Biden Administration to support an immediate ceasefire and to initiate direct negotiations for the release of all civilian hostages.
As part of the legacy of refugees who risked their lives to safeguard the lives of their loved ones, we demand that our country’s diplomatic efforts prioritize the protection, safety, and well-being of survivors by providing sufficient international aid. These humanitarian funds must not be allocated as part of a budget package that also increases funding to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which historically and currently has inflicted tremendous harm on Southeast Asian communities and other refugee and immigrant communities here in America.
And as allies committed to fighting back against hate of all forms, we also condemn rising anti-Semitism and Islamophobia at home and abroad. Having lived through recent years of rising anti-Asian hate, Southeast Asian communities know all too well how dangerous and threatening these sentiments can be when left unchecked. We call on our legislators to push back against the xenophobic rhetoric being used to promote anti-immigrant policies, and for individuals everywhere to denounce hateful, violent language and actions wherever they occur. We are speaking out to center humanity. All people should have the opportunity to live peacefully in their homes, free from fear of persecution, in communities where their families can thrive.
Media contact: Elaine Sanchez Wilson | elaine@searac.org