The United States House of Representatives Passes Resolution to Condemn Hate and Bigotry

The United States House of Representatives Passes Resolution to Condemn Hate and Bigotry

Sierra Hurson, Journalist

Amidst critical and anti-Semitic comments towards Israel and pro-Israel lobbyists from Congresswomen Ilhan Omar, the House of Representatives voted in favor of a resolution that condemns discrimination against minorities and other hateful gestures. The resolution passed 407-23. However, prior to the vote, controversy occurred among House Democrats regarding whether the resolution should have specifically been dedicated to condemning anti-Semitism and singled out Omar or should address hate and discrimination on broader terms. The representatives decided on the latter and conjured strong support. Omar’s comments included referring to Jewish Americans as having “divided loyalties”, which New York Mayor Bill de Blasio criticized saying, “Unfortunately, it aligns with a history- for centuries- of that kind of negative comment being thrown at the Jewish community.” Some conversely defended Omar and her statements. Bernie Sanders believed her perceived anti-Semitic comments regarding foreign policy towards Israel was “legitimate criticism of the right-wing” government in the country. When discussing the resolution and the Omar controversy, Speaker Nancy Pelosi stated, “I see everything as an opportunity. This is an opportunity once again to declare as strongly as possible opposition to anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim statements, and white supremacist attitudes.” It is clear that the Unites States government is united in spreading these messages and combatting any toxic rhetoric that faces Congress. This sends a powerful message to the rest of the country that these injustices must be fixed and progress towards respect and empathy must be made.