Reject S.1159 – Stop the Discriminatory, Anti-Palestinian “GAZA Act”

I am writing in strong opposition to S.1159, the “GAZA Act,” introduced by Senator Daines. This bill is not about national security—it is a thinly veiled act of discrimination that targets Palestinians solely based on their nationality and presumed guilt, conflating innocent people with terrorism in a dangerous, unjust, and deeply racist way. The bill proposes to bar the entry of individuals “holding a passport issued by the Palestinian Authority” and those who have lived in Gaza within the last five years. It does not distinguish between civilians and combatants, nor between refugees and militants. It treats all Palestinians as potential threats, violating fundamental principles of individual justice and due process. This legislation would set a horrifying precedent: that entire populations—especially those enduring humanitarian catastrophes—can be collectively punished and stigmatized without evidence or cause. Denying entry based on nationality is discriminatory, plain and simple. It mirrors other shameful chapters in U.S. history when groups of people were demonized and excluded based on fear, racism, and xenophobia—not fact. Let’s be absolutely clear: many Palestinians are fleeing unimaginable violence, starvation, and devastation—conditions the U.S. has helped create and fund through its support of Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza. To then turn around and deny these individuals refuge or reunification with loved ones in the U.S. is morally indefensible. I urge you to stand on the right side of history. Reject S.1159 and refuse to let anti-Palestinian bigotry be enshrined in our laws. We must uphold justice, dignity, and equal treatment—not enshrine fear-mongering and collective punishment. (https://www.daines.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GAZA-Act-119th.pdf)