Press Release: Suppression of Peaceful Protests: A Violation of Democratic Rights
PRESS RELEASE
04/30/2024
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati
513-755-3280
Suppression of Peaceful Protests: A Violation of Democratic Rights
Cincinnati, Ohio - April 30, 2024: In the last few days, We have observed with deep concern the alarming trend of suppressing peaceful protests to call attention to the suffering of Palestinians through unjust arrests. The fundamental right to assemble peacefully and express dissent is a cornerstone of any democratic society. However, this right has been undermined in Ohio and across the country as individuals engaging in peaceful demonstrations have been met with excessive force and unwarranted detention.
Peaceful protests serve as a vital mechanism for citizens to voice their grievances, advocate for change, and hold those in power accountable. When these protests are met with suppression and intimidation tactics, it not only infringes upon the rights of individuals but also threatens the very fabric of democracy.
The recent spate of arrests targeting peaceful protesters in colleges, universities and other educational institutions is a troubling escalation that cannot be overlooked. These arrests not only stifle free expression but also have a chilling effect on those who wish to exercise their democratic rights. Moreover, they erode trust in law enforcement and undermine public confidence in the institutions meant to uphold justice and protect civil liberties.
As a Muslim American community, this targeting by law enforcement is particularly concerning as it perpetuates Islamophobia against those who are striving to stand up for basic human rights. Our students are risking their academic careers and future employment for their beliefs. They are doing so peacefully and within their constitutional rights, yet they are facing discrimination and disrespect- particularly those visible Muslims who wear the hijab (headscarf), or keffiyeh.. This is against the backdrop of rampant Islamophobia and false accusations of antisemitism. These protests are not against any religious group, but rather against a policy and government who is perpetuating some of the worst crimes against humanity.
The Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati condemns in the strongest terms the use of excessive force and arbitrary arrests to silence peaceful dissent. We call upon the authorities to respect and uphold the right to peaceful assembly as enshrined in international human rights instruments and the constitution and for the media to denounce this injustice and amplify calls for an end to this violation of civil rights. Furthermore, we urge law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and ensure that individuals peacefully exercising their rights are not subjected to harassment or intimidation.
It is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to democracy by protecting and promoting the right to peaceful protest. Any attempt to suppress dissent through arrests and intimidation sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the principles upon which our society is founded. The Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati stands in solidarity with all those who seek to peacefully express their views and demand accountability from their government. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the protection of democratic rights and civil liberties in Ohio and beyond.
For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]
End of Press Release
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