Our Statement on the Palestinian and Israeli Conflict
The Center for Nonviolence stands for peace, compassion, and justice. The ongoing conflict in Israel, Gaza, and the occupied Palestinian territories is deeply rooted in a historical struggle, characterized by profound suffering. This conflict has tragically given rise to increased polarization, hatred, and the alarming spread of anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic sentiments around the world. We strongly condemn acts of terrorism and extreme, government violence in the region. We also recognize the historical oppression and violence endured by both the Palestinian and Jewish communities throughout their respective histories. Both groups have experienced significant suffering due to terrorism and government violence, emphasizing the urgent need for empathy and understanding to end this conflict.
The lives lost are heartbreaking, and it is human to feel torn and overwhelmed by the complexities of the conflict. We must acknowledge the historical context that has led to this situation of grave injustice. There's a clear power imbalance as Israel, a significant military power, has pushed the Palestinian people into an apartheid state. While there is a long history of inhumane acts to consider, it's essential to use our words, now and always, to condemn those who rob others of their lives, health, and humanity. Even when words are all we have, they carry the weight of truth and justice for those enduring this unjust reality.
As articulated by our esteemed Coordinating Panel Chairperson, Omowalé-Kétu Oladuwa, in a poignant excerpt from "10/16/23 #6 — THE 9-11TH DAYZ" via RootFolkz Poetz Press:
“6000 bombz falling on thepeepl uv gaza in 6 dayz
all life supportz cutoff
hospitalz skoolz bombed
no safezone noway out
sent south to eskape the threatened invayshun
targeted on the southern route to syny
soldyerz at the gate await
orderz to klenz gaza uv itz okkupantz
theklenzing all/ready begun
war iz worse than hell
myheart can’t hold the sorrow
tearz donot squelch the fire burning in my gut”
This conflict has persisted for generations, with America historically aligning itself with the Israeli government. We insist that our representatives utilize this position of allyship to demand a cease-fire. Furthermore, we call for a peaceful negotiation after a cease-fire. At the Center for Nonviolence, our stance is clear: we do not align ourselves with violent governments anywhere, and we denounce any actions that cause harm. It's crucial to distinguish between the violence of oppressors seeking dominance and the oppressed fighting for their freedom. Our dedication to nonviolence remains unwavering, and we stand in solidarity with the oppressed. Open dialogue, understanding, and a just and equitable relationship are the keys to extinguishing this longstanding conflict.
We echo the call to action put forth by The Movement for Black Lives: "It is past time to end the war on Palestine. We need everyone to call their representatives and demand an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid deployment, and a safe pathway for further aid to Gaza, in order to save as many lives as possible."
The cycle of violence must end. Peaceful, just solutions must be found, respecting all lives and dignity. The longer we delay, the worse the situation becomes for those on the ground, endangering the lives of thousands of Palestinian and Israeli families alike. Join us in contacting your representatives. WE DEMAND A CEASEFIRE NOW!
