Statement in response to reports that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) has withdrawn from an event commemorating the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin.
“Yitzhak Rabin gave his life to the struggle for peace. He was assassinated because he was a peacemaker and we should never forget it.
History is replete with imperfect leaders who have bent humanity towards peace and progress. Rabin was one of those leaders who recognized that peace is made with one’s enemies, not one’s friends. Yet unfortunately, an upcoming event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his assassination has been dragged into the cancel culture that plagues our current politics.
By withdrawing from this event, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) has distanced herself from the principle of supporting those who seek engagement to foster peace. This is what Rabin stood for and acted upon.
The American Jewish Congress believes that all sides must recognize the humanity of both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We believe that, as Americans, we must engage in constructive dialogue to overcome the barriers that divide us. We must not stray from this path.”
