John,
This week, I joined other progressive colleagues in the House in boycotting Prime Minister Modi's speech to Congress. I wanted to make it clear why.
We've seen how Prime Minister Modi has incited dangerous nationalism and violence in India, has promoted Islamophobia, and has a history of human rights abuses.
From imprisoning journalists to targeting Muslims and other religious minorities in both rhetoric and legal action, Modi's government has been repressive. He was even banned from the U.S. after being accused of condoning a 2002 mass murder of Muslims as leader of the Gujarat state in India. And more recently, the Indian national government has restricted freedom of the press, discriminated against religious minorities, and restricted internet access from Muslim-majority states.
When it comes to standing up for human rights, actions speak louder than words. I believe inviting someone like Narendra Modi to speak to Congress is unacceptable — so I boycotted his address. I stand in solidarity with the communities that have been harmed by Modi and his policies, and we must never renege on our commitment to human rights.
Thank you for joining me in standing up to oppression everywhere.
Peace and love,
Jamaal
