As US Congress members prepared to extend a warm welcome to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a starkly different scene unfolded outside the Capitol. Pro-Palestine protesters gathered in dissent, voicing their opposition to the visit and the policies of Netanyahu’s administration. Among the demonstrators was 30-year-old Najjam Malik, a Pakistani-American working in a law firm. Speaking to media Malik expressed, “When you see this level of oppression and level of repression of their self-determination… you have to stand up, especially in this country.” His words echoed the sentiment of many who felt that the ongoing conflict and repression warranted urgent attention and protest.
