Washington, Feb 1 (NationPress) Peaceful rallies and prayer vigils took place in nearly two dozen cities throughout the US, as Hindu Americans voiced their concerns over what they termed targeted violence against Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh. They urged US lawmakers and international organizations to take decisive action.

Demonstrations were held in various cities, including Princeton, Los Angeles, Chicago, the Bay Area, Detroit, and Tampa. Organizers stated that these coordinated protests aimed to raise awareness and advocate for accountability.

During a rally in Princeton, a speaker expressed that participants had gathered “in support of Bangladeshi Hindus and other minorities facing genocide in Bangladesh”, claiming there have been “over 3,000 attacks” since the previous year.

“The time has come to speak up. The time has come to stop,” the protester insisted.

In Detroit, demonstrators described a phenomenon they termed a “drip-drip genocide,” asserting that Hindus are being specifically targeted, and called upon supporters to “contact your lawmakers,” unite locally, and participate in an event in Washington.

A Congressional hearing is set to take place in Washington DC on February 9.

In Los Angeles, speakers combined prayer with appeals for civic engagement. One speaker urged the crowd, “Do not remain silent. Speaking up is crucial because silence equates to acceptance.” “Stand up and make your voice heard,” they added.

An official from the Coalition of Hindus of North America mentioned that organizers have initiated an online petition to facilitate communication with elected representatives.

“Innocent Hindus are suffering brutal attacks purely due to their religious identity,” stated FIA-Chicago and the National India Hub, which orchestrated a demonstration in Schaumburg, Illinois. “Silence and inaction merely contribute to the ongoing genocide,” they remarked.

Organizers indicated that similar events were conducted in Boston, Houston, and Los Angeles, and that a congressional hearing is scheduled at the US Capitol in early February. A coalition of human rights and Hindu advocacy organizations, including HinduPact, asserted that the protests aimed to draw attention to the struggles faced by Bangladeshi minorities and to advocate for policy change.

During a rally in the Bay Area, an opening statement emphasized that the movement has evolved into “an unprecedented grassroots initiative spanning coast to coast,” stating, “When innocent lives are lost, silence is not an option.”