Statement on Gaza
In our vision for better health and well-being for South Asians in the USA and the communities in which they live, the South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA) vehemently opposes and condemns all forms of discrimination, racism, and bigotry. We stand against violence and aggression directed at both Palestinian and Israeli civilians and express deep concern regarding the surge in religious attacks in the U.S., stemming from political rhetoric in response to the Gaza humanitarian crisis and the dehumanization of innocent lives.
The South Asian diaspora is well familiar with the enduring ramifications of colonization, which lead to the persistence of generational trauma and has significant implications on health (1). Our pathways to liberation from these systems of oppression are intertwined. As an organization dedicated to addressing public health issues impacting South Asians in the U.S., we are deeply concerned about hateful rhetoric used by politicians, mainstream media, and others in power. This inflammatory speech mimics the dehumanizing rhetoric used by politicians and the media following 9/11; and the recent rise in Islamophobic attacks are directly related to this harmful rhetoric.
We strongly urge all to contact their representatives to demand an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of financial support by the United States for this ongoing genocide.
Action