Washington, D.C. | October 31, 2023 — The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) expresses its profound alarm over the recent announcement by Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares that his office has opened an investigation into the AJP Educational Foundation, Inc., also known as American Muslims for Palestine. This inquiry, purportedly examining potential violations of Virginia’s charitable solicitation laws, is deeply troubling and echos a resurgence of McCarthyite tactics aimed at silencing support for Palestinian rights.
The ADC is alarmed that such investigations may signal a return to the War on Terror-era practices, wherein surveillance, scrutiny, and policing disproportionately targeted Arab and Muslim Americans. These actions not only impede on the fundamental rights to freedom of speech and association but also foster an environment of fear and intimidation within communities that are advocating for justice and human rights.
By casting unwarranted suspicion on organizations advocating for Palestinian rights under the guise of investigating charitable activities, there is a risk of further marginalizing and stigmatizing communities that are already vulnerable to prejudice and bias. Such actions are not only unjust but also counterproductive to fostering a society that values freedom, justice, and equality.
The ADC firmly believes in the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of charitable organizations. However, investigations must be conducted in a fair and unbiased manner, free from political motivations. It is imperative that the rights of individuals and organizations to advocate for the human rights of Palestinians, or any other marginalized group, are protected and not suppressed under the guise of national security or legal compliance.
We call upon the Office of the Attorney General to ensure that its investigation is conducted with fairness, transparency, and respect for the rights of all individuals and organizations. Furthermore, we urge our fellow citizens to remain vigilant against any efforts that seek to undermine our cherished democratic values and to silence voices advocating for justice and human rights.