US House Representative Wiley Nickel told Congress that a resolution supporting an independence referendum for Eelam Tamils is a “crucial step towards healing, justice and a lasting peace”.
Speaking at Congress on Thursday, Nickel said the resolution, which has Democratic and Republican co-sponsors, “recognizes the genocide in Sri Lanka and affirms the right of Tamils to self-determination through a democratic process”.
This week I introduced a resolution recognizing the genocide in Sri Lanka, affirming the Tamil people's right to self-determination, & for an independence referendum to work toward peace.
— Rep. Wiley Nickel (@RepWileyNickel) May 17, 2024
The U.S. must lead & champion the values of democracy & human rights.
My full remarks.? pic.twitter.com/49uiNuXYgE
“My resolution emphasises the need for a peaceful and democratic solution to ongoing tensions in Sri Lanka,” he said.
“It advocates for an independence referendum, a process that has been used successfully to resolve similar conflicts in other parts of the world. This approach echoes our commitment to democratic principles and underscores our support for human rights globally.”
“Additionally, my resolution calls on the United States to strengthen diplomatic ties and support the Tamil people's pursuit of justice and self-determination. It highlights the ongoing challenges in the region, including the militarization of Tamil areas, the appropriation of land and the destruction of cultural heritage, which continue to exacerbate the grievance grievances of the Tamil community.”
Read more on the resolution below.
