Dear Editor: Below is a minute that was created by Live Oak Friends Meeting in Salinas, California. We have sent it to President Biden, our Congresspeople, our Senators, FCNL, Pacific Yearly Meeting, and College Park Quarterly Meeting.
We hope our voices are heard.
Live Oak Meeting
of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
Salinas, California
Minute of Concern on the Israel-Palestinian War
(Approved June 9, 2024)
As Quakers, we oppose war and seek a just and lasting peace in Israel and Palestine. We grieve the many deaths of both Israelis and Gazans, especially the many children. Many Gazans have been injured and most lack decent health care. They are facing famine and infectious disease as well as the destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, places of worship, and farms. Their need for food, shelter, and medical care is critical.
We therefore urge our elected officials to seek:
1) An immediate and lasting bilateral ceasefire, with ongoing peace negotiations,
2) Return of Israeli hostages and Palestinian political prisoners,
3) Withholding of military aid to Israel, because of these ongoing gross violations of human rights,
4) Expedited humanitarian assistance to all parts of Gaza.
– Linda McCue for Live Oak Friends Meeting (PacYM)