We are writing in support of Mohsen Mahdawi as members of his faith community at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Hartland, Vermont.
We are devastated to learn that the U.S. Government will argue to overturn Mohsen’s release from prison in the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. We write to show solidarity with Mohsen and to support his first amendment right to free speech. We write to show support for anyone speaking out about ending the genocide in Gaza.
We know Mohsen through our church. He has been a member of our congregation for years and occasionally led services there. We enjoy chatting with him during coffee hours and always appreciate the perspective he brings.
It is unbelievable to us that anyone could see Mohsen Mahdawi as a threat. Mohsen is a peacemaker. He brings people together. Surely there are more important things for our government to do than continue to prosecute peaceful students.
Mohsen’s message is about the power of peace, love, and community. Mohsen strives to change the hearts and minds of people through his commitment to nonviolence and by talking to others about nonviolence. What makes him so special is his willingness to engage and talk with people who do not agree with him.
We are dismayed that our government continues to mischaracterize Mohsen and other people who are speaking out against the genocide in Gaza.
Mohsen Mahdawi has brought so much joy to our community. Despite everything he has been through, he continues to act with dignity in the face of violence and oppression. Despite the charges the U.S. government is bringing against him, he continues to believe in the promise of democracy and in the goodness of others.
Mohsen’s case is about free speech. We don’t want anyone’s voice to be silenced and we want Mohsen to continue being an active member of our church community and our broad community here in the Upper Valley.