NCBW Statement of Support for Congresswoman Ilhan Omar
Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
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The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW), unequivocally condemns the violent and cowardly attack against Congresswoman Ilhan Omar during her recent town hall in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While faithfully serving her constituents and engaging in the democratic process, Congresswoman Omar was targeted by an individual who sprayed her with a substance in an apparent attempt to intimidate and silence her. Law enforcement swiftly intervened, the assailant was arrested, and Congresswoman Omar continued her remarks, a testament to her courage and commitment.
NCBW stands in solidarity with Congresswoman Omar and applauds her resilience and leadership. There is no place for violence, intimidation, or threats against any elected official or community leader. Such attacks undermine the very foundation of our democracy and the right of all citizens to participate in civic discourse without fear. We join other civil rights organizations and members of Congress in calling for accountability and de-escalation of rhetoric that fuels hate, xenophobia, and political violence.
We further acknowledge the broader context in which this attack occurred, one marked by escalating tensions around immigration policy and enforcement operations in Minnesota, including confrontations involving federal agents and members of local communities. In this climate, it is imperative that leaders be protected, that threats are taken seriously, and that all voices are heard respectfully and safely.
“Violence, intimidation, and threats against elected officials are not only attacks on individuals, but they are also assaults on democracy itself,” said Virginia W. Harris, National President of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. “Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was targeted while doing the essential work of public service, and we commend her courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her constituents. NCBW stands firmly with Congresswoman Omar and calls for an end to the hateful rhetoric and actions that seek to silence women leaders, particularly women of color, who lead with conviction and integrity.”
NCBW reaffirms its commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and the protection of civil rights for all. We call on communities across the nation to reject violence in political life and to uphold the dignity of public service
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The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Incorporated is a 45-year-old advocacy organization whose vision is that Black women and girls will live in a world where socio-economic inequity does not exist. Thus, we advocate on behalf of Black women and girls to promote leadership development and gender equity in the areas of health, education, and economic empowerment. As a voice for millions of Black women and girls in the United States, the Coalition believes in inclusion, respect, racial and social justice, integrity, accountability, and collaboration. For more information visit the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. at www.ncbw.org.
NCBW Mission: To advocate on behalf of Black women and girls to promote leadership development and gender equity in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment.
Tax-Exempt Status: NCBW is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized as tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.
