Canadian Poet Rupi Kaur Rejects White House Invitation to Diwali Event Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict
Renowned Canadian poet Rupi Kaur declines White House invitation to Diwali event, expressing concerns over US support for Israel amidst escalating Gaza bombardment
Canadian poet Rupi Kaur, widely known for her work, has turned down an invitation to attend a Diwali event at the White House hosted by the vice president. Kaur's decision stems from her disapproval of the Biden administration's support for Israel, particularly during the ongoing intense bombardment in Gaza. She expressed her criticism towards the administration's endorsement of Israel while the casualties in the besieged Palestinian enclave continue to rise.
"I decline any invitation from an institution that endorses the collective punishment of a populace trapped in a dire situation, half of whom are children," stated the author of "Milk and Honey." Additionally, the author criticized the Biden administration, contending that they persist in "rationalizing this genocide perpetrated against the Palestinian people." CNN has contacted the White House for a response.
According to the Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza, more than 10,000 individuals have lost their lives since Israel initiated its military campaign a month ago. The conflict arose when the Islamist militant group Hamas carried out a vicious assault on October 7, resulting in the death of 1,400 people in Israel and the abduction of approximately 240 others. In response, Israel launched an air and ground offensive on Gaza, aiming to eradicate the militant organization.
The Israeli airstrikes have targeted schools, refugee camps, and ambulances, generating widespread condemnation from the international community and sparking massive protests worldwide. Israel maintains that its objective is to target Hamas operatives and military infrastructure in Gaza. It further asserts that Hamas deliberately places its assets in civilian areas and employs civilians as human shields.
In the aftermath of Israeli bombardment in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip, people are searching through the rubble for survivors and the bodies of victims. This comes amidst ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, on November 6, 2023. The photo, captured by Mohammed ABED for AFP, depicts the poignant scene of the search and rescue efforts.
Mohammed Abed/AFP/Getty Images
US plans to transfer $320 million in precision bomb equipment to Israel in sale approved earlier this year
Kaur, an acclaimed Indian poet with a significant social media presence, highlighted the significance of the Hindu festival, Diwali. According to her, this occasion symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over falsehood and the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. She expresses her surprise at the administration's decision to celebrate Diwali, given their endorsement of ongoing atrocities against Palestinians. For her and many others, this contradicts the essence of the holiday.
Kaur believes that Diwali is an opportunity for introspection on the significance of fighting for freedom against oppression. She urges the South Asian community to demand responsibility from this administration, stressing that as a Sikh woman, she will not allow her image to be used to conceal the actions taken by the current government.
As the humanitarian crisis worsens, there has been a global outcry against the Israeli offensive, with massive protests demanding a ceasefire in Washington, DC, and other US cities. President Joe Biden and his advisors have cautioned Israel about the increasing difficulty in achieving their military objectives in Gaza. While Biden has not explicitly called for a ceasefire, he has expressed support for a temporary pause to address the release of hostages. During a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, Biden reaffirmed his unwavering support for Israel and the safety of its citizens, while also stressing the importance of protecting Palestinian civilians and minimizing harm during military operations, as stated by a White House readout.
CNNs Nouran Salahieh, Zoe Sottile, Abby Baggini, Donald Judd, Kevin Liptak, MJ Lee, Natasha Bertrand, Priscilla Alvarez and Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report.
