Protestors gather at the offices of the United Nations Women on November 27, 2023 in New York City. The group Bring Them Home Now held a protest to observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women to bring attention to the Israeli women who were allegedly raped during the terror attack by the militant group Hamas on October 7th.
We have all seen the horrors that have resulted from Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel’s civilians and defense forces, and Hamas’ horrifying use of civilians and hostages as human shields in the ensuing conflict. But when it comes to these terrorists’ use of sexual violence against women as a tool of war, the silence has been deafening.
Why is it so hard to acknowledge this reality and simply say “Rape is wrong. In any context, at any time.” Even for those who disagree with Israel’s response to Hamas’ attacks, this should not be difficult. But it seems like it is.
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And as a Jewish woman, I have long stood up for all victims of bigotry and hatred, whether it is antisemitism or Islamophobia, racial bias, hatred directed against members of the LGBTQ community, or any other group who faces discrimination.
Our entire city and state are deeply enriched by our diversity. Here in Queens, the World’s Borough, we are a microcosm of the global society. Our efforts to uphold justice locally can serve as a model for addressing injustices globally.
So I cannot understand the lack of collective outrage, and I cannot remain silent about the sexual violence against Israeli women by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7.
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Protestors gather at the offices of the United Nations Women on November 27, 2023 in New York City. The group Bring Them Home Now held a protest to observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women to bring attention to the Israeli women who were allegedly raped during the terror attack by the militant group Hamas on October 7th.
The sexual violence against women by Hamas is not just alarming; it is a call to action for every individual and organization who says they are committed to human rights and dignity. As Hillary Clinton said, “Women’s rights are human rights.” Why is it so hard to uphold this principle when those women are Israeli?
And you do not need to be deeply committed to the safety and security of Israel — as I am — to do so. This issue transcends religious or political affiliations, ideologies, or where you stand on the war. It is about standing up against sexual violence and rape.
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Shany Granot-Lubaton holds up a photo of a hostage as protestors gather at the offices of the United Nations Women on November 27, 2023 in New York City. The group Bring Them Home Now held a protest to observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women to bring attention to the Israeli women who were allegedly raped during the terror attack by the militant group Hamas on October 7th.
Those of us committed to fighting sexual violence have a moral obligation to stand up against such atrocities wherever they occur. Our collective voice is powerful tool to advocate for the rights and dignity of all victims of sexual assault and gender-based violence.
Together, we must ensure that the horrors faced by these women are not forgotten. Outrage is the proper response here, so let’s stand in solidarity on that point for all women. The time for silence is over; the time for action is now.
Katz has served as the district attorney of Queens since 2020.
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