The Gay Vegans

The execution of Jamal Khashoggi

There are many things that have disturbed me in the past couple of years, yet few have risen to the level of outrage as the execution of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the government responses afterwards.

Long before I became an animal rights activist I was a human rights activist. I know how dangerous the world can be for journalists. Even though I did not know him, I’m pretty sure Mr. Khashoggi knew this too. I am also pretty sure he had no idea he would be brutally executed when walking into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. (He actually said he had no concerns.)

When I first started hearing this story, my initial thoughts were based in past hopes and ignorance. There was no way the Saudi government would do this, and certainly once public and proven, there was no way our government would support it. Of course I was wrong, holding on to past ideals that in this world we live in today no longer exist. This was also a reminder to me that the Saudi government executing someone or committing human rights violations is no surprise. Also, the list is long of Saudi activists who are in jail.

I am heart broken that our government has done nothing to support Mr. Khashoggi, and instead has taken the side of his executioners.

Some say there is nothing we can do. That would be the worst if true. I don’t believe that.

My hope with this quick blog post is that more people will learn of this atrocity and will share my outrage. That we as citizens will speak loudly to those who “represent” us and send a clear message that no, we as a country do not support this execution or the government that ordered it. This execution will not be supported in our name.

If you share my outrage and have a quick second, please let your Congressperson and Senators know. You can reach your Congressperson by calling 202-225-3121, and US senators by calling 202-224-3121. Ask the operator to connect you to their office.

Mr. Khashoggi is survived by his fiance, four children, and many colleagues and friends around the world who adore him.

Thank you for reading.

About Dan Hanley

Gay and vegan in the burbs (of Los Angeles). I blog about veganism, equality, compassion, activism, politics, spirituality, and our awesome life experiences. The "s" includes my husband, Mike! I want this blog to be a tool to build bridges among communities and to inspire people to get involved and vote.