AMP remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights, dignity and freedom

We deeply regret the cancellation of our event at the Hyatt Regency, O'Hare Hotel, and believe it is essential to clarify the circumstances surrounding this decision. We view this as part of a concerted effort to delegitimize and silence Pro-Palestinian human rights voices in the United States, which is a matter of grave concern.

This cancellation takes place in the context of a troubling dehumanization discourse adopted by some of our policymakers and media concerning the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. These individuals are currently enduring Israeli war crimes and crimes against humanity, and the suppression of their voices is deeply troubling.

Furthermore, we consider this a significant infringement on constitutionally protected free speech. The conflation between legitimate critique of the actions of the Israeli government with antisemitism or support for violence is not only unfounded but also reprehensible.

The decision by the Hyatt Regency O'Hare to yield to pressure and threats to cancel our event is not an isolated incident. We have witnessed similar cancellations of Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim American events in locations like Orlando, FL, and Washington, DC. Regrettably, by giving in to these threats, these establishments are inadvertently legitimizing and giving credibility to voices of bigotry, violence, and exclusion. In doing so, they contribute to the fueling of Islamophobia, Anti-Arab, and Anti-Palestinian racism.

We want to emphasize that we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights, dignity, and freedom. We unequivocally reject all forms of hate speech, including Islamophobia and antisemitism. We refuse to be bullied by threats of violence and suppression. We urge the media to hold these voices of hate accountable, and we call upon our law enforcement to investigate and prosecute those who threaten violence against peaceful voices in America.
Sincerely,

Dr. Osama Abu Irshaid
Executive Director, AMP