Renowned Canadian poet Rupi Kaur has declined an invitation to the White House's Diwali celebration, citing the Biden administration's support for Israel's ongoing bombardment of Gaza and what she describes as its justification of "genocide against Palestinians." Kaur expressed her surprise and disappointment in an Instagram post, stating that it is unacceptable for the administration to celebrate Diwali while simultaneously supporting atrocities against Palestinians. Diwali is a celebration of righteousness and knowledge, and Kaur, who is of Sikh heritage, uses the holiday to reflect on the fight for freedom against oppression.

The current conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7th when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. In response, the Israeli military launched an aggressive offensive on Hamas-controlled Gaza, involving airstrikes, ground troops, and tanks. The death toll in Gaza has continued to rise, with over 10,300 people killed, including more than 4,200 children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health. While these figures have not been independently verified, US officials acknowledge that the civilian toll is undoubtedly in the thousands.

Kaur condemns the Biden administration for funding the bombardment of Gaza and justifying the "genocide against Palestinians." She criticizes the administration for not calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, which has been demanded by several countries, the United Nations, and organizations such as Doctors Without Borders. Kaur argues that the privilege of attending the White House event is not worth remaining silent or complicit in the face of the suffering endured by Palestinians.

Kaur's decision to decline the invitation has garnered support from other South Asian public figures. Actor Richa Moorjani, known for her role in "Never Have I Ever," expressed solidarity with Kaur, stating that she too will boycott the White House Diwali event. Content creator Payal (@payalforstyle) also commented, explaining that she cannot attend the event in good faith and support an administration that engages in actions she deems as dark and harmful.

Brown Girl Magazine, a publication focusing on the South Asian diaspora, thanked Kaur for speaking out and announced that they too will be declining the White House invitation. The magazine supports Kaur's stance and emphasizes the importance of holding the US government accountable.

In response to Kaur's decision, the White House has not yet issued a statement. Vice President Kamala Harris, who is hosting the Diwali celebration, has not commented on Kaur's remarks.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has received widespread international condemnation due to the scale of humanitarian suffering. Calls for a ceasefire have grown, with large protests taking place in Washington, DC, and other US cities. President Joe Biden has urged Israel to consider the difficulty of achieving its military goals in Gaza. While he has not explicitly called for a ceasefire, Biden has expressed support for a humanitarian pause to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. In a recent call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden reiterated his support for Israel's protection while emphasizing the need to reduce civilian harm during military operations.

Kaur's decision to decline the White House invitation brings attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and raises questions about the US government's stance on the issue. As a renowned poet and influential figure, Kaur's refusal serves as a poignant act of protest against what she perceives as an unjust and oppressive situation.