Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Indo-Canadian poet Rupi Kaur, known for her acclaimed work “Milk and Honey,” has turned down an invitation to a Diwali event hosted by US President Joe Biden’s administration. Kaur expressed her refusal, citing her objection to institutions supporting the collective punishment of a trapped civilian population, particularly children. She criticized the administration’s celebration of Diwali, given its alleged support for atrocities against Palestinians, a stark contradiction to the holiday’s meaning for many. The ongoing crisis in Gaza, with a reported death toll exceeding 10,000, including numerous children, fueled Kaur’s decision.
Gaza faces a dire situation, with hospitals running low on supplies, 16 of 35 forced to suspend operations, and over 1.5 million people displaced since Hamas initiated hostilities against Israel. Kaur urged fellow South Asians in the US to hold the Biden administration accountable for the escalating civilian casualties. She emphasized her unwillingness to be tokenized by photo-ops that whitewash the administration’s actions, asserting a moral imperative to demand justice when a government’s actions dehumanize people globally.
The Diwali event, hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris, becomes controversial in light of Kaur’s stance. Diwali, celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas among Sikhs, commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib’s liberation of 52 political prisoners. Kaur, who immigrated from Punjab to Canada at a young age, reflected on the day’s significance and denounced the US government for allegedly funding the Gaza bombardment and justifying what she terms a genocide against Palestinians.
Kaur encouraged her followers to take action by signing petitions, participating in boycotts, and attending protests advocating for a ceasefire. With collections selling over 11 million copies and translated into 43 languages, including the best-selling “Milk and Honey,” Kaur has become a prominent voice. She has received accolades such as “writer of the decade” from the New Republic and recognition in Forbes’ 30 under 30 list. Despite her influence, her X account (formerly Twitter) faced restrictions in India earlier this year over the Khalistan issue.
