October 2023: Israel/Gaza Updates & Upcoming events
Dear Friend,
I have been heartbroken watching the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip, following a deadly attack on innocent Israelis by Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces have responded with some of the worst violence the region has ever seen, which has now displaced over 1 million Palestinian civilians and killed over 3,400 Palestinians. I was horrified by the attack and quickly issued a statement condemning this violence and calling for peace. As the response unfolded, I condemned the shutoff of water, fuel, and electricity to over 2 million Gazans and called for negotiated peace to avoid more civilian deaths.
As the crisis unfolded, my office learned of constituents trapped in Israel and Gaza needing help returning home. We swiftly connected them with State Department resources and released a statement assuring Minnesota’s 5th District that assistance was available. This quick action led to at least one constituent’s family member returning home safely. I also joined 16 colleagues in sending a letter urging the Department of State to expand aid to these communities. I continued to be in contact with the Biden Administration to make sure support exists for Minnesotans trapped in Gaza and Israel.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorated, I joined 15 of my colleagues on a ceasefire resolution, calling for an immediate end to the violence in Gaza, the release of Hamas’ hostages, and a path to lasting peace. My office and I have been engaging with regional countries to urge a release for hostages, an immediate ceasefire, and the provision of humanitarian aid. We have also met with officials from the United Nations to urge independent investigations into alleged violations of international law.
My heart breaks for the lives lost and communities shattered. Throughout this crisis, my priority has been supporting Minnesotans affected and seeking a diplomatic end to the bloodshed. I remain committed to helping constituents impacted by this conflict.
You’re Invited to Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Resource Fair
Join Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s District Office for a resource fair. Our team helps hundreds of constituents navigate issues with federal agencies every year — passports, immigration issues, tax issues, Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security, Veteran’s Affairs issues, the US Postal Service, and other federal agencies. The resource fair is free and open to the public.
Date: Tuesday, October 24
Time: 2pm — 5pm CT
Sabathani Community Center
310 E 38th St Suite 222
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Free parking is available in the adjacent lot, and the center is accessible via Metro Transit buses 5, 11, 18, and 23.
Please check in with the security guard when you arrive, and they will direct you to our office suite.
Supporting the Green New Deal for Public Schools
I proudly joined Rep. Jamaal Bowman and Senator Ed Markey in support of the Green New Deal for Public Schools. This transformative $1.6 trillion investment over 10 years will radically uplift our education system. The Departments of Education and Energy will provide unprecedented funding to revitalize our nation’s public schools. Students in my district have already seen the power of sustainability programs. North Park School for Innovation implemented an innovative technique of turning trash and recycling into valuable resources. With the Green New Deal, we can expand cutting-edge sustainability across Minnesota’s schools. This bill ensures all our public schools can become carbon-neutral, energy efficient, and resilient against climate impacts. Most importantly, it reimagines our education priorities — investing in support staff, assistive services, and community partnerships.
Apply to be Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s Intern
We are accepting applications for our Spring In-District Internship Program until October 31st. Please share with your networks!
The spring internship will take place from January — May 2024. Ideal candidates must be able to work 4–5 days a week, 25–30 hours a week. Our office is committed to paying interns $15.00 an hour. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, October 31st. Additional information and applications can be found on our official website: Omar.house.gov/services/internships. If you have any questions, please reach out to our office at MN05.info@mail.house.gov or 612.333.1272.
Save the date: November 9th Town Hall
Join me for a town hall to connect and discuss the issues facing our community. I’ll provide updates on my recent work in Congress and will be answering your questions. This town hall is open to the public. Eventbrite registration is required to attend.
Town Hall Details:
Date: Thursday, November 9th
Time: 6–7pm
Sandburg Middle School
2400 Sandburg Ln,
Golden Valley, MN 55427
Don’t forget about Medicare Open Enrollment!
Now through December 7th is your chance to review and change your Medicare coverage during the Open Enrollment Period. This is the time when you can compare your current Medicare health and prescription drug plans with other options that may better meet your needs. People with high prescription drug costs will see their out-of-pocket spending capped at around $3,500. This cap will continue to decrease in future years. In addition, many Medicare beneficiaries will continue to save hundreds of dollars thanks to the new $35 monthly cap on insulin costs and coverage of recommended vaccines at no cost.
Beneficiaries can explore Medicare plans using the Plan Finder website located here.
Please reach out to my office if you need help comparing plans or have any other questions.
In Solidarity,
Ilhan Omar
