In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Islamic Center of Southern California Thanks Governor Newsom, Advises Theres More To Do
March 26, 2024
On March 21, 2024 California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an Open Letter to Californias Muslim, Palestinian American, and Arab American Communities.
In the letter, Governor Newsom lauded the contributions of our communities, and shared his feelings on what is happening in Gaza, it pains me so deeply to see the ways your communities are suffering, bearing the weight of lost family and friends in Gaza while facing a rise in discrimination and hate here at home.
He also went on to say the following about the current situation, So let me be clearI condemn the ongoing and horrific loss of innocent civilian life in Gaza. I support President Bidens call for an immediate ceasefire as part of a deal to secure desperately needed relief for Gazan civilians and the release of hostages.
He also revealed that he directed the California National Guard to participate in efforts to deliver aid to Gaza.
The Islamic Center of Southern California expresses heartfelt thanks to Governor Newsom for his leadership. In issuing such a statement he is moving the countrys political needle away from the false narrative that has dominated our nation's politics and media, and moving it towards a clearer moral and political view we must have of the historic oppression of the Palestinian people by Israel.
Indeed, in a period when American Muslims are reeling in pain over the genocide taking place in Palestine; when any criticism of Israel or Zionism - a state and ideology that has treated Palestinians as sub-human for 75+ years - is reactively and falsely labeled as antisemitic; when Western media ensures their reporting is still predominantly in favor of Israel, woefully failing their primary duty to be non-biased; in the light of this and more, Governors Newsoms statement is welcomed and much appreciated.
We appreciate his words, they bring solace and a feeling of being seen.
But there is more to do.
More to do, to help end the suffering
More to do, to further our States moral and political clarity
More to do, to protect Californias Muslim community.
Heres what we propose:
Let there be no doubt we are at a political inflection point in our nations historic and tragic support of Israel. We again thank Governor Newsom for his important words. We hope more than words can be expressed.
May God guide us all as we strive only in His cause.
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