Regarding the presentation of the Sisterhood statement:
Several Muslim and Jewish sisters in the Washington, D.C. metro area participated in the Ceasefire Now: Grassroots Advocacy Days. This grassroots effort was spearheaded by more than forty organizations. On April 17, Sisterhood members met with the offices of Senator Van Hollen and Representative Trone, both of Maryland. Together with representatives from the National Iranian American Council, Doctors Against Genocide, Maryland Peace Action, and the Friends Committee on National Legislation, they lobbied for an immediate, permanent ceasefire, no wider regional war, a surge of humanitarian aid to Gaza and restoration of UNRWA funding, return of the hostages, and no more offensive weaponry to Israel.
As part of each meeting, Margaret Johnson, former co-leader of the DC-Metro I chapter, made the case for a permanent and immediate ceasefire and presented the Sisterhood statement along with the listing of the 386 signatures of Sisterhood supporters. At the meeting with Representative Trone, Naghmana Malik, co-leader of the Reston, VA chapter, shared about the need for surging humanitarian aid to Gaza, while Fatima Argun, Sisterhood board member and former co-leader of the Arlington, VA chapter moderated the session.
Other members attending: Kowsar Gowhari (instrumental in connecting us to NIAC, the organization who arranged the meetings and provided logistics and training), Sharyn Horowitz, and Arshia Burney. Kay Halpern and Nesrine Taha were not able to participate the day of the event, but provided vital organizing and advocacy efforts.
Margaret A. Johnson, Ph.D.
Personal Reflections:
Being part of the Sisterhood of Salam Shalom (SOSS) has truly been a fulfilling journey. Leading the Reston Chapter for the past eight years has allowed me to connect with individuals I might never have met otherwise, forging bonds that endure beyond differences.
Recent developments in the Middle East have posed new tests for our group, challenging the strength of our friendships and our dedication to one another. Despite differing perspectives, our shared values of peace, equality, and justice unite us.
Engaging in advocacy efforts, alongside my Muslim and Jewish sisters, has been particularly rewarding. Collaborating on preparations and presentations for meetings with representatives and senators, we've discovered each other's passion and unwavering commitment to prioritizing humanity above all else. Witnessing the tangible impact of organizations like ours in promoting global human equality and
justice is truly inspiring.
- Naghmana Malik, Reston Chapter
