House Committee Calls for Revocation of Tax-Exempt Status of Anti-Israel Organizations
In a recent development, the House Ways and Means Committee has urged the IRS to revoke the tax-exempt status of nine nonprofits that were allegedly involved in promoting “chaos and discord” during anti-Israel protests on college campuses. The chairman of the committee, Jason Smith, raised concerns about the activities of these organizations, which he claimed had no discernible charitable purpose.
According to the findings shared by the committee, the nonprofits in question were accused of engaging in illegal activities, including the promotion of civil disobedience and possible fiscal sponsorship of foreign terror groups. Among the nine organizations targeted by the committee, two were based in New York (Westchester Peace Action Committee Foundation and The People’s Forum), while the rest were headquartered in Virginia, Texas, and California.
Smith emphasized the need for accountability, stating that American taxpayers have the right to be outraged by the use of their tax dollars to fund groups involved in illegal activities. He stressed that tax-exempt status is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, and organizations must operate in line with their stated exempt purposes.
Allegations Against Westchester Peace Action Committee Foundation (WESPAC)
One of the nonprofits under scrutiny, Westchester Peace Action Committee Foundation (WESPAC), was singled out for its alleged role as a fiscal sponsor of prominent groups supporting anti-Israel protests and tent encampments on college campuses. These activities reportedly led to incidents of harassment, assault of Jewish students, trespassing, property vandalism, and numerous arrests.
The committee’s letter highlighted the connection between WESPAC and groups like National Students for Justice in Palestine, Within Our Lifetime, US Palestinian Community Network, and the Palestinian Youth Movement. These groups were accused of inciting riots and engaging in behavior that posed a threat to campus safety.
Concerns Raised About The People’s Forum
Another organization targeted by the committee was The People’s Forum, which was accused of promoting messages that led to the occupation of Hamilton Hall on Columbia University’s campus. The group’s funder, Neville Roy Singham, was said to support pro-Chinese Communist Party propaganda, raising questions about the organization’s activities and intentions.
The People’s Forum was also implicated in organizing a rally in Times Square where antisemitic messages and sentiments were displayed. The group’s leader, Manolo De Los Santos, faced criticism for delivering speeches that were deemed antisemitic and promoting the eradication of Israel.
Broader Implications and Calls for Action
The broader implications of the committee’s findings extend to other organizations, including the Tides Foundation, Jewish Voice for Peace, United Hands Relief, Inc., Alliance for Global Justice, Islamic Relief USA, Americans for Justice in Palestine Educational Foundation, and American Muslims for Palestine. These groups were flagged for potential ties to terror organizations and activities that raised concerns about their charitable status.
The involvement of liberal billionaire George Soros in supporting anti-Israel initiatives through third-party grant-making groups also came under scrutiny. The committee highlighted the need for accountability and transparency in funding sources to prevent the misuse of resources for illegal or harmful activities.
In response to the allegations, representatives of the implicated organizations did not immediately comment on the matter, leaving questions about their involvement and accountability unanswered.
As the House Ways and Means Committee continues to push for action against organizations promoting anti-Israel sentiments, the focus remains on holding accountable those who engage in activities that undermine campus safety, promote hate speech, and potentially support terrorist organizations. The call for the revocation of tax-exempt status serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of charitable organizations and ensuring that they operate in line with their stated purposes.
