WASHINGTON,DC–Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Africa Subcommittee, released the following statement condemning last weekend’s full-page ad in the New York Times attacking National Security Advisory Susan Rice:
“I am disgusted by last weekend’s ad in The New York Times attacking National Security Advisor Susan Rice, distorting her human rights record and claiming that she condones genocide.
“Last year I traveled to Rwanda on a Presidential Delegation with United Nations Ambassador Samantha Power to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda. Amb. Rice and the Obama Administration have put real action behind their support for human rights around the world, and most particularly, in Africa. In 2013, Ms. Rice led the effort to address increasing violence in the Central African Republic and worked with the United Nations to support African Union forces to protect civilians and investigate human rights abuses so the perpetrators can be held accountable. This is just one example of her exemplary human rights efforts.
“Israel has no stronger friend than Ambassador Rice. She was a leader and continues to be a strong supporter for Iron Dome, which saved countless Israeli lives during this summer’s war, and Jewish leaders have described Ms. Rice as a ‘gladiator’ in her efforts to defend Israel.
“Freedom of speech and expression is a fundamental principle in the United States. But with this right comes incredible responsibility. I am pleased that many Jewish and Israeli leaders have condemned this ad. This type of rhetoric only divides us, and it has no place in mature political discourse.”
