Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact.
Title
SUBSTITUTE - Reaffirming Support for a Permanent Ceasefire and Supporting Student Protestors Supporting Student Organizers & Reaffirming Commitment to Peaceful Resolution
Body
WHEREAS, on December 5, 2023, the Madison Common Council unanimously passed two resolutions: one calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and urgent political action to deescalate the crisis and to prioritize truth, reconciliation, restitution, and the building of a future for Palestinian and Israeli people, and the other condemning all acts of Islamophobia and Anti-semitism and encouraging all Madisonians to recognize the diversity of religions as a source of strength and to foster an environment of open and constructive dialogue that provides a supportive space to engage in these crucial conversations; and,
WHEREAS, according to Al Jazeera, the Gaza Ministry of Health reports that armed violence has claimed the lives of over 34,500 people, including more than 14,000 children, as well as over 1,100 Israelis; and,
WHEREAS, the devastation and death continue with horrific news of a mass grave uncovered at Nasser Hospital in Gaza which included bodies shot in the head; and,
WHEREAS, according to Al Jazeera and the United Nations, 24 hospitals have been partially or totally destroyed and at least 53 schools have been totally destroyed; and,
WHEREAS, this conflict is perpetuating a dangerous and costly lack of access to basic human needs in Gaza, such as food, water, medical supplies, and more, which are indispensable for the survival of the civilian population; and,
WHEREAS, for the safety and security of all civilians and in order to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, any ceasefire must be agreed upon by both sides and must be guaranteed by the physical presence of international partners who have a vested interest in seeing peace and stability in the region; and,
WHEREAS, it is reported that both Israel and Hamas attacked and seized hostages and t...
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