Solidarity with Palestinians and Jews
This statement is written was authored by:
Jonathan Kuttab, Palestinian Christian Theologian, Human Rights Lawyer, FOSNA and Nonviolence International
Rabbi Michael Lerner, Editor of Tikkun magazine
Rabbi Cat Zavis, Beyt Tikkun: A Synagogue without Walls, Civil/Women's Rights Lawyer, and Mediator
Rabbi Esther Azar, Arab Jewish Trauma Activist, and Rabbi: trauma Informed Rabbinics
As of October 15, 2023, the following statement has been signed by over 2500 Palestinians, Jews, and others throughout the world who are committed to holding complex truths and striving to overcome polarization. We feel the pain of our people, identify with their pain, and need to work together to uplift our shared humanity.
The unfolding horror in Israel and Gaza is an escalation of decades of state-sanctioned violence by Israel against Palestinians. We condemn the horrific actions of Hamas against Israeli civilians. We likewise condemn Israel’s unbridled bombing and cutting off access to all basic needs, including food, water, electricity, and medical care. Attacks on Palestinian and Israeli civilians are repugnant.
Israeli violence against Palestinians has been intentionally hidden, slow, and steady. Contrary to what the media is reporting, this attack was not unprovoked. The Israeli and American governments have worked together to suppress and deny the inhumane acts against Palestinians that have led to this moment. There are Palestinians and Jews who have been raising red flags and warning about this inevitable outcome for decades, only to be dismissed and ignored.
The world’s failure to challenge Israel’s ongoing occupation, apartheid, and unbridled violence by settlers and soldiers in the West Bank provides the context for what is happening now. The recent Israeli government’s escalation of violence, encroachment of Al Aqsa Mosque, and its 16-year siege of Gaza has led to the current explosion.
We repeat: the brutality of Hamas’ attack on Israeli civilians is unjustified.
As we watch the violent attacks and rallying of xenophobia on both sides, we are brokenhearted. Although it feels like a time to stand with “our people,” we know this is a time to come together. This is a time of great suffering for all; a time of painful emotions. It is only by recognizing our shared fears and our shared tears that we will find our way through this nightmare. It is a struggle we need to undertake jointly.
When we fall back into our separate and distinct identities we risk becoming part of the problem, not the solution. Both peoples suffer from ongoing trauma. We are all on high alert. The fear is palpable. And it is easy for us to objectify the 'other.'
We seek a third path that neither perpetuates a xenophobic response nor sustains an unjust status quo. This moment calls us to slow down, sit with the pain and complexity, and grapple with our discomfort. It is a moment for digging deep, seeing across differences, and remembering our deep yearning for peace and justice. It is only through compassion and empathy that we will find a different way.
* We recognize and uplift the humanity of all peoples in Israel/Palestine.
* We call for an immediate ceasefire from Hamas and Israel.
* We demand that basic needs be provided to Gazans.
* We demand that the United States provide only humanitarian support to Israel and Gaza.
* We demand the release of all hostages and political prisoners, both Israeli and Palestinian.
We support the creation of a movement that recognizes and affirms the humanity, dignity, and desire of both peoples to live in peace through reconciliation and justice.
You can add your name at https://bit.ly/Palestinian-Jewish-Solidarity.
The message of Sabeel is needed now more than ever. Please contribute as you can according to your ability.
Take Action!
URGENT: Tell Congress: Support Ceasefire
(Jewish Voice for Peace) Representatives Cori Bush, Rashida Tlaib, Andre Carson, Summer Lee, and Delia Ramirez are leading an anti-war push in Congress to call on President Biden to immediately demand and facilitate a ceasefire.
Email your Representative asking them to join the Ceasefire NOW Resolution!
Demand a Stop to the Ethnic Cleansing and Genocide of the Palestinian People in Gaza
(Arab American Institute) We are all horrified by the loss of Israeli life that occurred on October 7, 2023 and the brutal occupation and siege laid upon the Palestinian people that came before it and continues today. The violence is heart-wrenching and a violation of our basic humanity and international law.
Now, we are witnessing the inhumane displacement and genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza. We need to take action immediately.
Please demand our government officials act to prevent the ethnic cleansing and genocide in Gaza.
Use the form below to contact President Biden, Secretary of State Blinken, and your representatives in Congress.