To the Editor,
Congressman Delgado holds another virtual townhall meeting on July 28. But will he address a question many have been asking him for months? We want him to co-sponsor HR 2560, a bill that has gathered sponsors each year, and that would prohibit use of US military aid by Israel in violation of international humanitarian law, by abusing Palestinian children, destroying homes, confiscating land and annexing territory in occupied Palestine.
Already this year, Israel’s oppression has worsened. The whole world saw the indiscriminate bombing of civilian homes in Gaza. Around the same time, two highly respected organizations, Human Rights Watch and the Israeli human rights watchdog, B’Tselem, documented how Israel’s routine treatment of Palestinians constitutes apartheid, an internationally recognized offense against human rights.
As a Jewish American who is older than the State of Israel, I’m relieved that people are finally noticing the ugly reality behind endless bi-partisan praise for Israel’s supposed support of democracy and human rights. I’m especially pleased that more and more Jewish Americans, especially the younger generation, are demanding justice for Palestinians.
Representative Delgado says he supports human rights, so why does he parrot discredited talking points from the pro-Zionist lobby? Why has he been “unable” to meet constituents to discuss this, even after 2,300 voters signed a petition favoring HR 2560? And why are questions about US policy toward Israel never picked to be addressed at his townhalls?
Here’s a suggestion. Attend the townhall on July 28. See for yourself. Will Delgado answer a question from advocates for HR 2560? Will he join the growing number of representatives who are already co-sponsors? If he does take that principled stand, I’ll be the first to cheer.
Bob Gelbach