August 2021: Welcoming Afghan Refugees
Dear friend,
Like many of us, I have watched the immense human tragedy in Afghanistan in horror. Yesterday’s horrific terrorist attack on Afghans and U.S. service members was a tragedy, yet another reminder of the terror the people of Afghanistan continue to face. My heart goes out to the Afghan people, especially the many Afghans who risked their lives for a safer, freer Afghanistan, as well the of countless Americans who served in this conflict, thousands of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. The hard truth about America’s longest war is that for 20 years, we made promises we couldn’t keep. The simple fact is that prolonging a war indefinitely would not have delivered a stable, peaceful Afghanistan. I agree with President Biden: an endless American military occupation of Afghanistan was unacceptable.
My office has been working with the State Department to help people in Afghanistan evacuate safely. I will continue to advocate we marshal an international coalition to evacuate every Afghan citizen who is fleeing for their lives.
Calling on President Biden to Stop Line 3
I led a letter to urge President Biden to use his executive authority to stop the construction of the Line 3 pipeline. The letter comes after concerning violations of treaty rights by public agencies and private actors, ongoing violence against Indigenous women, and the catastrophic environmental impacts of the pipeline. You can read more here.
Welcoming Afghan Refugees
Last week, Governor Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan announced Minnesota stands ready to welcome Afghan refugees. As a refugee, I am so proud of our state for upholding our tradition of providing refuge and stability for refugees. The weather in our state may be cold, but our hearts are warm. You can read my statement on Afghanistan here and my op-ed here.
Delivering Transformative Change
This week, the House advanced the infrastructure package and the reconciliation package that will deliver transformative improvements for Minnesotans and the American people. The reconciliation package includes key policy priorities shared by the majority of the American people, including resources to tackle the climate crisis, expand childcare and build a 21st century economy. I can’t wait to see to see the progress that will take place for our district.
Announcements
Join My Town Hall
This Tuesday, I’m holding my first in-person outdoor town hall since the start of the pandemic. Excited to discuss what’s happening in Congress and answer your questions. Sign-up for details here.
In service,
Ilhan Omar
Member of Congress
