1. United States
2. La.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding your conduct during the recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on hate crimes, particularly your interaction with Maya Berry, the executive director of the Arab American Institute. Your line of questioning towards Ms. Berry was not only disrespectful but also displayed clear Islamophobic and anti-Arab sentiments that are unbecoming of a United States Senator. Specifically, I am troubled by the following aspects of your behavior: 1. You repeatedly and baselessly accused Ms. Berry of supporting terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah, despite her clear and unequivocal denials. 2. You persisted in these accusations even after Ms. Berry stated, "I do not support violence, be it from Hezbollah, Hamas, or any other group that resorts to it.” 3. Your suggestion that Ms. Berry should "hide [her] head in a bag" was deeply offensive and drew gasps from the audience. 4. Your line of questioning seemed to conflate Arab American identity with support for terrorist organizations, which is a harmful and dangerous stereotype. As your constituent, I find it particularly distressing that you would treat a witness in this manner during a hearing meant to address the rise of hate crimes in our country. Your behavior not only undermined the purpose of the hearing but also exemplified the very prejudices and biases that contribute to hate crimes against Arab Americans, Muslims, and other marginalized communities. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has rightly condemned your comments as "anti-Arab bigotry." Your actions have not only offended many of your constituents but have also potentially incited further hatred and division at a time when we desperately need unity and understanding. I urge you to reflect on this incident, issue a public apology to Ms. Berry and the Arab American community, and commit to approaching future hearings and interactions with respect and sensitivity towards all witnesses, regardless of their ethnic or religious background. As your constituent, I expect better from you. I look forward to seeing a more respectful and constructive approach in your future committee appearances and public statements.