Recently, the governor signed a new law that will reinstate the Oklahoma Israel Exchange Commission to “foster cooperation” between the people of Oklahoma and the zionist entity “israel”. This bill went through the legislative process in an unethical and untransparent measure.
It passed through as a different bill, and the language was replaced without proper notice before a committee hearing. This means it avoided regular channels where it could have lobbying efforts against. Every step of the way it was scheduled last minute to prevent action.
Jerusalem Office
The text of the bill (Senate Bill 729) claims they will set up an office in Jerusalem, illegally occupied territory in Palestine. Our state has continued to pass measures to embolden their “partnership” with “israel”, while israeli forces have been carrying out the most ruthless and deadly military occupation seen in modern history.
The author claimed later the office will not be in Jerusalem, but legislators are still unsure. Either way, this action still sends the message loud and clear how the Oklahoma government disregards Palestinians dignity and right to their homeland.
Global vs. Local
Protests have continuously been carried out across the world against the genocide in Gaza. Nations, states, human rights groups, and NGOs have come forward to stand with humanity against the violence in Gaza.
However, here at home in Oklahoma, our government has turned a blind eye towards war crimes and chosen instead to fund and perpetuate relationships with the zionist entity.
Funding Genocide
Oklahoma continues to invest in genocide instead of growth. This commission would take money away from its residents in need and send it to fund the continued slaughter of indigenous people across the globe.
Recent estimates in Gaza have reached near 200,000 people killed. This measure passed by our state government has exposed other groups who are funding this genocide, like the Chickasaw Nation who has pledged to match $20,000 grant for an Israeli organization
OKIE
The commission has been lauded by local groups such as the Oklahoma Israel Exchange (OKIE), who has been a loud voice since October hosting events promoting the zionist entity and has called for support of the “israeli” occupation forces.
OKIE claims to “promote goodwill and understanding” between Oklahoma and Israel.
Impact at Home
Bills of this nature do nothing to help people in our state. Oklahoma leads the nation for domestic violence, uninsured persons, and a lack of access to affordable housing.
We all live on stolen land from Indigenous peoples, and our money should go to supporting those people here at home, not funding further land theft and violence to other Indigenous groups across the globe.
IT IS TIME TO SPEAK UP!
It’s imperative that people continue to speak up, speak out, and uplift Palestinian voices. Especially in the settler-colonialist nation of the “United States” that continues to fund this genocide and countless others around the globe. Until Palestine is free, OAO is committed to educating, advocating, and supporting the safety and freedom of the Palestinian people.
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