Washington DC: The World Kashmir Awareness Forum (WKAF), an advocacy group based in Washington, launched a campaign using digital advertising trucks to promote the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir, aligning their message with the celebrations of American Independence Day.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the campaign was strategically launched during the festive atmosphere of July 4th to maximize impact. Digital trucks featuring large electronic screens circulated through key areas of the capital, including the National Mall, Capitol Hill, and near the White House, displaying messages such as “Americans Celebrate Independence Day: Kashmiris Treat Indian Occupation with Dismay” and other poignant calls for action regarding Kashmir’s situation.
Dr. Ghulam N. Mir, President of WKAF, stressed the symbolic importance of July 4th and expressed gratitude towards the United States for its historical support of the Kashmiri cause since 1947, highlighting the disparity in freedoms between Americans and Kashmiris. Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Secretary General of WKAF, emphasized that American values of freedom and justice should be applied globally, particularly in crisis regions like Kashmir.
Contributions from other prominent Kashmiri Americans, including Dr. Imtiaz Khan, and leaders from various Kashmiri associations, echoed a united call for the Biden administration and international leaders to engage more decisively in resolving the Kashmir conflict and addressing human rights abuses reported in the region.
The campaign served as a compelling reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Kashmiris, juxtaposing the celebration of freedom in the U.S. with the demand for similar rights in Kashmir.