Antisemitism is as Despicable as Islamophobia.
There are no degrees in racism
(Text of a short speech I’ll present at Las Cruces City Council on Monday, May 18.)
Is it morally complex to decry the war crimes being committed by both Hamas and Israel? I do not think so.
Antisemitism is as despicable as islamophobia. There are no degrees in racism.
I’m here today for two reasons.
First, to ascertain the outcome of my November 20th request that the city consider a resolution urging a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinians.
Secondly, and more importantly, I again request council consider and pass a resolution urging a general ceasefire.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire and deteriorating day by day. You know this because you are not stupid.
Hamas and its allies continue to target Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden with drone and missile strikes.
Since ground operations in the Gaza Strip began, at least 105 Israeli Soldiers have been killed. Over 434 soldiers have been killed since the Hamas surprise attack October 7th.
The estimated number of deaths of Palestinians since October 7 is more than 18,000. The estimated number of children killed since Israel’s assault is over 5,000.
A ceasefire in Gaza is not just a strategic necessity; it is a humanitarian imperative. Every day of conflict exacerbates the suffering of innocent civilians on both sides — men, women, and children whose lives have been overshadowed by the constant fear of violence.
Children, the most vulnerable and innocent among us, bear the heaviest burden on both side of the war. The psychological trauma inflicted by the sound of sirens and explosions, the loss of homes, and the disruption of education, is a scar that will last a lifetime.
A ceasefire is a gateway to dialogue and a long-term resolution. History has shown that sustainable peace is not achieved on the battlefield but through negotiation and mutual understanding. By silencing the guns, we open the space for diplomacy, for conversations that acknowledge grievances, respect rights, and seek common ground.
I strongly appeal to this city council to cross arms with the rest of the world in urging an immediate ceasefire.
Thank you for your consideration.
Revised speech follows…
Is it morally complex to decry the war crimes being committed by both Hamas and Israel? I do not think so.
Antisemitism is as despicable as islamophobia. There are no degrees in racism.
I’m here today for two key reasons.
Firstly, to follow up on my request from November 20th that the city consider a resolution urging a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinians. This is not just a political issue; it’s a matter of humanity.
Secondly, I again urge council to consider and adopt a resolution calling for a general ceasefire. The situation in Gaza is abhorrent and growing worse daily. This is a reality we all are acutely aware of. It cannot be denied or ignored.
Ongoing hostilities have resulted in significant loss of life and inconceivable suffering. Hamas and its allies have continued to target Israel, impacting both military and civilian areas, while Israeli military actions have led to a devastating toll on Palestinian lives. The numbers speak for themselves: the loss of life since the beginning of hostilities is staggering, including a heartbreaking number of children. These are not just numbers; they are lives, each with a story, a family, a future cut short.
A ceasefire in Gaza is not just a strategic necessity; it is a humanitarian imperative. Every day of conflict exacerbates the suffering of innocent civilians on both sides — men, women, and children whose lives have been overshadowed by the constant fear of violence. The psychological impact, especially on children, is profound and lasting. The trauma of war, the loss of security and normalcy, will leave scars that may never fully heal.
We must understand that a ceasefire is not merely a tactical pause; it is a critical step towards a larger goal. History has consistently shown that lasting peace is not achieved through warfare but through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. A ceasefire would provide a much-needed opportunity for diplomacy, for addressing grievances, and for seeking a path towards a sustainable and just peace.
I urge the city council to join voices with those around the world calling for an immediate ceasefire. Let us take a stand, not just for peace, but for the future of countless innocent lives caught in the crossfire of this conflict.
Thank you for your time and for considering this urgent appeal.
