Wiley Nickel: “May 18 marks 15 years since the end of Sri Lanka's almost 30-year armed conflict, a war that tragically ended hundreds…”

“May 18 marks 15 years since the end of Sri Lanka's almost 30-year armed conflict, a war that tragically ended hundreds of thousands of lives. This conflict shattered families and communities, leaving deep scars that are still felt to this day. This week, I am introducing a resolution that commemorates those lost and aims to protect the Tamil community from future violence and discrimination. My resolution recognizes the genocide in Sri Lanka and affirms of right of Tamils to self-determination through a democratic process. The Tamil people have a long history of distinct cultural and political identity on the island now known as Sri Lanka. {time} 1015 Historically, they lived in sovereign Tamil kingdoms that were forcibly merged under a single administration in 1833 by the British. This erasure of autonomy set the stage for decades of strife, conflict, and suppression, culminating in war. My resolution emphasizes the need for a peaceful and democratic solution to ongoing tensions in Sri Lanka. 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.…”