Photograph: Adam Dean for The New York Times

Dear John,

This Ramadan, as we remember Muslims from around the globe, we ask you to take action for the Rohingya facing genocide by writing to your member of Congress to support and pass the BURMA Act.

We are excited to report that THIS WEEK the House plans to hold a vote on the BURMA Act of 2021. However, we still need YOUR help to ensure the swift passage of this crucial legislation. 

Background:

Since hostilities escalated in 2017, the Emgage Action policy team has tirelessly advocated for the Rohingya Muslims on the Hill and in-district through our chapters (VA, PA, NY, TX, MI, and FL). This Act, if passed will:

• Impose sanctions on individuals and entities who helped stage the February 1 coup d'état and are responsible for the subsequent repression of fundamental freedoms, human rights abuses, use of indiscriminate violence towards civilians, and other gross atrocities.
• Prohibit the import of precious and semi-precious gemstones from Burma into the United States.
• Support civil society and authorize humanitarian assistance in Burma, Bangladesh, Thailand, and the surrounding region.
• Calls on the United Nations to take more decisive action with regards to Burma.

Last month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivered remarks at the Holocaust Museum in Washington D.C., declaring the Burmese military's mass killings of the Rohingya a "genocide." The following are his remarks:

“The attack against Rohingya was widespread and systematic, which was crucial for reaching a determination of crimes against humanity,” said Secretary Blinken. “The evidence also points to a clear intent behind these mass atrocities, the intent to destroy Rohingya in whole or in part."

Tell Congress TODAY to pass the BURMA Act of 2021, so that those perpetrating this genocide can be held accountable and that we can effectively work towards achieving freedom for Rohingya Muslims.

Sincerely,

Wa'el Alzayat

Emgage Action CEO

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