The Peace For All Rally at the United States Capitol on December 18, organized by the Arts4All Foundation and Congressman Shri Thanedar, aimed to end the violence, atrocities, and persecution of vulnerable populations in Bangladesh. In response to the political turmoil and violent incidents following student protests that led to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government’s overthrow in July, the rally brought together community leaders from diverse backgrounds to urge the United States Congress to intervene and prevent further human rights violations in Bangladesh.
Urgent Call for Action
The Arts4All Foundation, a prominent human rights organization, highlighted the alarming situation in Bangladesh, where hundreds of people have lost their lives, and tens of thousands have been displaced in recent months. Reports of religious leaders’ imprisonment, targeted attacks on minorities, and violence against religious centers have raised concerns about the escalating crisis facing religious and ethnic minorities in the country.
Diverse Voices Unite
Community leaders such as Dr. Sachi Dastidar, Dr. Susmita Jasty, Bina Sabapathy, Ashwani Beri, Neeru Beri, Anil Gupta, and Nisha Gupta joined Holocaust survivor Mr. Sami Steigmann and Congressman Thanedar at the rally to advocate for immediate intervention to prevent further violence and displacement in Bangladesh. The gathering aimed to amplify the voices of those affected by the crisis and urge policymakers to take concrete steps to address the human rights violations and prevent genocide in the region.
A Cry for Help
Dr. Sumita SenGupta, founder of the Arts4All Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for action to protect religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh from extinction. She stressed the importance of de-escalating tensions, ending the imprisonment of religious minorities, and stopping violent attacks and mass atrocities targeting vulnerable populations in the country. Congressman Thanedar echoed her sentiments, calling for global awareness and collective action to address the escalating crisis of human rights violations in Bangladesh.
As we reflect on the plight of vulnerable populations in Bangladesh, it becomes apparent that we must stand in solidarity with those facing persecution and violence. The rally at the U.S. Capitol serves as a reminder of the power of community mobilization and advocacy in addressing human rights crises globally. Let us not turn a blind eye to the suffering of others but instead, join hands to create a more just and equitable world for all.
