|
CODEPINK:
- believes in the implementation of human rights and international law on both sides
- believes in supporting and empowering Palestinian self-determination, but we do not take a stance on a two-state or a one-state solution--it is not within our role as internationals or a U.S. based organization to advocate on behalf of a particular solution on behalf of Palestinians
- condemns violence against civilians on both sides, but we see the Israeli occupation and the blockade of Gaza as among the root causes of the conflict, and view the end of the Israeli occupation and a lifting of the blockade of Gaza as key steps towards reaching a just and lasting solution.
- condemns the use of our national resources to financially and diplomatically support the ongoing occupation and blockade
- stands in solidarity with nonviolent activists working for peace, and conscientious objectors, throughout the region and around the world
On a
recent trip to Gaza, the glimmer of hope we found among
people in Gaza was the Obama administration. Many were upset
that Obama did not speak out during the invasion and that
peace envoy George Mitchell, on his first trip to the Middle
East, did not visit Gaza or even Syria. But they felt that
Mitchell was a good choice and Obama, if given the space by
the American people, could play a positive role. Who
can provide that space for Obama? Who can respond to the call
for justice from the Palestinian people? Who can counter AIPAC,
the powerful lobby that supports Israeli aggression? An
organized, mobilized, coordinated grassroots movement is the
critical counterforce— and we need you to stand with us and
do your part for peace!
As Sholom Schwartzbard, a member of Jews Against the Occupation,
explained at a New York City protest, “We know from
our own history what being sealed behind barbed wire and checkpoints
is like, and we know that ‘Never Again' means not
anyone, not anywhere - or it means nothing at all.”
A peaceful and just resolution of the tragedy of occupation,
now in its 42nd year, will be a relief and blessing to Israel
as well as to the Palestinians.
Let's take our compassion and concern and
turn it into action:
- US citizens must tell their Members of Congress that they
want them to pursue a balanced, constructive foreign policy
that will lead to an end of the occupation and the establishment
of a just peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Please
call your member of Congress at 202-224-3121 today!
- Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper expressing
your views, and/or call in to political talk radio.
- Bring up these issues in your faith community; read, watch
videos, host discussions.
|
Gaza: Jan 30 - Feb 6, 2011: 
