CASA’s Executive Director Issues Statement Apologizing For Previous Statement That Was Denounced By Several County Councilmembers

On Monday, November 6th, immigrant rights group CASA issued a statement via social media that was deleted and followed up by a different message. Several Montgomery Councilmembers issued statements denouncing the initial CASA statement the next day. CASA’s Executive Director Gustavo Torres issued the following statement today:

“Dear family, friends, partners, legislators, and community,

There is a humanitarian crisis in Israel and Palestine. With the mounting loss of innocent lives, we as a CASA community are calling for peace.

When we initially released a statement, we wanted to shine a spotlight directly on the innocent Israeli and Palestinian children and families caught in the midst of this horrendous conflict. We sought to condemn the violence and call for the protection of all civilians. This crisis echoes the violence CASA members have seen in their own home countries, from which many – myself included – have experienced horror, displacement and the loss of family members.

In doing so, we caused dear friends and partners pain. Our message was flawed, diminishing of Israeli people, hurtful to many of our Jewish allies, and counter to our goals of advancing peace. For that, I am sorry. We immediately took that statement down and removed the social media content.

We have apologized to our allies who have been harmed by our words and now do so to all of you. We wholeheartedly regret not reaching out to allies and communities grieving the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel when it occurred. In the weeks since then, we should have done deeper work to understand the crisis and the ways in which language is understood by people much closer to the situation. We grieve for all innocent lives lost in this latest conflict, no matter their faith or ethnic identity.

This has been a painful period of learning and growth, and we are grateful that so many of our partners have offered resources and guidance. And we are taking steps to put this learning into practice. We have upgraded our processes and will hold internal trainings on anti-Semitic, anti-Arab, and anti-Muslim bias.

CASA has been a pillar for over 35 years in the community. For people forced to leave their home countries, a CASA office is one of their first stops for safety, community, legal services, English classes, youth education, and more. CASA’s health team kept people alive during the pandemic, leading COVID prevention efforts, participation in vaccine trials, and vaccine clinics that served tens of thousands. Many of you have hired CASA workers – day laborers who know how to paint or drywall your home or care for your children.

We believe in our organization, and CASA members truly believe in our work. As we move forward, we hope to regain the trust of those we have disappointed and hurt. We stand in solidarity with those advocating for peace and an end to the human suffering in Israel and Palestine. We hope to be able to do that together.

Gustavo Torres
Executive Director of CASA”

Recent Stories

MCPS High School Sports Scores Scores for Apr 27, 2024 (powered by www.mocoAI.com):

The Frederick Police Department released two statements on Saturday, regarding a threat to the community that was circulated in a Reddit post. Regarding the post, Frederick Police stated that “an…

On Friday, Governor Wes Moore today announced $2.25 million in grant funding for local government and nonprofit organizations through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Operating Assistance Grant…

Flipside Gastro To Go Closes

Flipside Gastro To Go, a local food truck that served hot chicken sandwiches, burgers, wings, fries and poutine, has announced its last day in service will be Saturday, April 27.

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

×

Subscribe to our mailing list