Why Did Poet Rupi Kaur Reject White House's Diwali Invite?

Canadian poet Rupi Kaur has turned down an invitation to participate in the White House's Diwali celebration on November 8 as a form of protest against the Biden administration's backing of Israel's airstrikes in Gaza.

Kaur in her statement expressed her surprise at the administration's willingness to mark Diwali while simultaneously endorsing actions that she believes run counter to the principles that the holiday represents for many.

'Celebration Of Righteousness'

In a statement shared on a social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Kaur stated, "I decline any invitation from an organisation that endorses the collective punishment of an imprisoned civilian populace, half of whom are children."

Diwali, the five-day festival that symbolises the victory of light over darkness, is observed by various faiths, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. Kaur emphasised that she has always utilised the holiday as an occasion for contemplating the struggle for freedom against oppression. 

"Diwali is the celebration of righteousness over falsehood and knowledge over ignorance."

I received an invite from the Biden administration for a Diwali event being held by the VP on nov 8. I decline any invitation from an institution that supports the collective punishment of a trapped civilian population—50% of whom are children. pic.twitter.com/J3V5om89Se

— rupi kaur (@rupikaur_) November 6, 2023

"I decline any invitation from an organization that endorses the collective punishment of a confined civilian population – a population where 50% are children," wrote the author of Milk and Honey.

Kaur went on to express, "At present, the US government not only finances the bombardment of Gaza, but they also persist in justifying this act of genocide against Palestinians, regardless of the destruction of refugee camps, medical facilities, and places of worship."

"As a Sikh woman, I cannot allow my image to be used to gloss over the actions of this administration," emphasised the poet. Kaur also stressed, "The privilege we may relinquish by raising our voices pales in comparison to what Palestinians endure daily due to this administration's rejection of a ceasefire."

"I cannot permit their actions, steeped in darkness, to be concealed behind glamorous outfits and photo opportunities, all in an attempt to create an illusion of inclusivity," she concluded.

Israel-Hamas War

After, an attack by Hamas militants on October 7, more than 10,000 Palestinians have lost their lives due to Israeli military operations. Hamas killed 1,400 Israelis and took 250 more as hostages. There have been widespread calls for a ceasefire, including from the heads of various UN bodies, human rights organisations, and activists. However, Israel has thus far rejected the idea.

As reported by CBS, President Biden has proposed a three-day "humanitarian pause" to facilitate the release of hostages while his administration has not specifically requested a "humanitarian cease-fire" from Prime Minister Netanyahu, as numerous countries, the United Nations and organisations like Doctors Without Borders have called for.

Suggested Reading: World Leaders Complicit: Angelina Jolie Condemns Israel's Air Strikes