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POET Canadian Rupi Kaur declined an invitation to Diwali celebrations taking place on November 8 at the White House to protest the Biden administration's response to the Israel-Hamas war.

The event will be moderated by Vice President Kamala Harris, who has not yet commented on the statement.

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In her social media post, Kaur said she rejected “any invitations from institutions that support collective punishment” against civilians.

He also called on other South Asian communities to hold the U.S. government accountable.

Kaur, a poet of Indian origin who wrote a collection of poetry Milk and honey said: “Shocked that this government considers Diwali – the Hindu festival of lights – acceptable.”

According to him, the event is a celebration of truth over lies and knowledge over ignorance. He also accused the US government of justifying genocide against the Palestinians.

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The conflict, which began on October 7 after Hamas's attack on Israel, has left more than 1,400 dead, according to Israeli authorities. Around 240 other people are being held hostage in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the Hamas health ministry in Gaza said more than 10,300 Palestinians had been killed since the Israeli counterattack on the territory, including more than 4,100 children.

Israel's siege of the territory also severely limits access to food, water and fuel for the 2.2 million people living in Gaza.

Kaur also criticized President Joe Biden's refusal to support a UN-backed humanitarian ceasefire. “As a Sikh woman, I will not allow my image to be used to whitewash the actions of this government,” said Rupi Kaur. (aru)

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