Statement on Representative Ilhan Omar's Remarks

HIAS was disappointed by Representative Ilhan Omar’s (D-Minn.) use of an anti-Semitic trope connecting U.S. lawmakers’ defense of Israel and money. She reached out to HIAS and other Jewish groups to apologize and we accepted that apology. Since then, Omar has made other comments regarding the political conversation about U.S. support for Israel, and those have been met with controversy.

HIAS takes any manifestation of anti-Semitism very seriously. At the same time, we strongly condemn anti-Muslim hate speech and threats in response to Omar’s comments. We call on all parties to treat each other with respect.

We will continue to work with all members of Congress to defend our asylum laws and protect the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, which relies on a diverse array of faith groups to ensure that all refugees feel welcome in this country.

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