FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2024
Media Contact: Prairie Johnson [email protected]
CODEPINK Condemns Hate Crime Attack on Fargo Community Organizers
Fargo, ND - We, the coalition of human rights activists and concerned members of the Fargo-Moorhead community, issue this statement to condemn in the strongest terms the heinous hate crime perpetrated against three attendees at a peaceful protest on February 11, 2024.
On that day, as part of our ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the war crimes in Gaza and advocate for an immediate ceasefire, we organized a peaceful march from Ed Clapp Park to the Essentia hospital. The march proceeded without incident until we reached Papa John's on 32nd Ave. S, where a violent incident unfolded.
While peacefully chanting and holding banners calling for hospitals to be safe zones, our protesters were accosted by a Papa John's employee who aggressively attempted to disrupt our demonstration. This employee, accompanied by others, physically attacked our peaceful protesters, resulting in injuries and trauma.
One of our female members was punched in the face causing a jaw contusion, and another protester, a Palestinian-American, was repeatedly punched and assaulted while attempting to intervene. Another march participant was also assaulted but chose not report their assault to the police. Additionally, there were instances of verbal harassment and sexual gestures directed towards members of our group, including a young woman.
Despite our efforts to deescalate the situation, the aggressors continued their violent behavior, causing distress and fear among our members. The police were called, but the assailants had fled the scene by the time they arrived. We commend the swift response of law enforcement and urge them to thoroughly investigate this hate crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It is deeply troubling that such an act of hate and violence occurred in our community. We stand united against all forms of discrimination and bigotry. Hate has no place in Fargo, and we demand accountability for those responsible for this reprehensible attack.
In the aftermath of this incident, we are calling on Papa John's management to issue a formal apology and take appropriate disciplinary action against the employee(s) involved. We will also be engaging with local law enforcement to ensure that this matter is thoroughly investigated and that justice is served.
As we continue our advocacy for human rights and justice, we urge community members to join us in speaking out against hate and violence and encourage elected officials to denounce this violence. Together, we can create a safer and more inclusive community for all.
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