BWOPA-CA Statement on the Attack Against Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA-CA) unequivocally condemns the violent assault on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar during her town hall in Minneapolis on January 27, 2026, when an individual rushed the stage and sprayed her with an unknown substance while she was speaking to her constituents. 

There is no room in a democracy for intimidation, threats, or physical attacks against public servants, especially women and leaders from historically marginalized communities who already face disproportionate harassment and danger simply for engaging in civic discourse. The right to free speech, civic participation, and peaceful assembly are core democratic values that must be protected at all costs.

We join lawmakers, civic leaders, and communities from across the country in rejecting political violence of any kind. Violence and intimidation not only endanger individual lives but also erode trust in our institutions and chill civic engagement at a time when robust debate is most needed.

BWOPA also recognizes that this incident occurred amid an increasingly tense political climate including reactions to federal immigration enforcement actions and other controversies that have heightened public polarization. 

While people may passionately disagree on policy, dissent must be expressed through lawful, peaceful means, not through actions that threaten physical safety.

We call on all leaders at the local, state, and national level to unequivocally denounce political violence, to prioritize the safety of those in public service, and to reaffirm our collective commitment to democratic norms. All Americans, including Black women and other women of color in public life, deserve to participate in civic life without fear of attack or intimidation.

BWOPA-CA stands for justice, accountability, and the safety of all who serve the public. We extend support to Congresswoman Omar and to all who continue to work toward a more just and inclusive democracy. 

#ProtectBlackWomen