Staff Reports
In an unexpected development, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, known as AOC, has openly criticized the rally in New York City that expressed support for Hamas terrorism in Israel. This rally was organized and promoted by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a group with which AOC and other members of the "Squad" are associated. As a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, it's heartening to witness AOC taking a stand against such unacceptable and harmful conduct.
The United States’ responsibility is to human rights. That means supporting the safety of the Israeli people and preventing the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians. pic.twitter.com/7CsuN6uO3w
— Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@RepAOC) October 12, 2023
AOC voiced her concerns in a Politico article, emphasizing that it should not be challenging to confront hatred and antisemitism wherever it emerges. She underscored the significance of solidarity, highlighting that the bigotry and callousness displayed at the rally did not represent the views of the thousands of New Yorkers who condemn Hamas' horrific attacks on innocent civilians.
It's noteworthy that AOC's fellow Squad members, namely Representatives Jamaal Bowman, Ilhan Omar, and Rashida Tlaib, did not respond to requests for comment regarding the rally. This lack of response raises concerns about their position on Hamas terrorism and their silence on the matter. While they have previously criticized Hamas attacks, their silence on this specific occasion is troubling.
In particular, Tlaib has been vocal in her criticisms of Israel and U.S. aid to the country. She argues that the path to a peaceful future should involve lifting the blockade, ending the occupation, and dismantling what she characterizes as an apartheid system in Israel. However, her rhetoric fails to acknowledge the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role played by Hamas in perpetuating violence.
Although the DSA attempted to distance itself from organizing the rally, a screenshot from Representative Ritchie Torres shows that the DSA's New York chapter shared details of the rally on social media. This contradictory behavior raises questions about the DSA's true intentions and whether their promotion of the event aligned with their beliefs.
It is heartening to see Representative Shri Thanedar renounce his DSA membership in response to the rally. As he aptly points out, it is impossible to associate with an organization that fails to condemn terrorism in all its forms. His decision to stand with Israel demonstrates a commitment to peace and justice.
All in all, AOC's denouncement of the rally and the expressions of support for Hamas terrorism is commendable. It is crucial for leaders to speak out against and reject hatred and antisemitism to foster solidarity and promote peaceful coexistence.
