Correspondence: Updated 12/30/2023 — Alameda City Council, January 2, 2024

From: Hannah Schlacter
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Malia Vella; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen; Trish Spencer Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Against 10-D/ End Hamas, end the war Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 12:46:30 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am a Bay Area citizen who visits Alameda. I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

I understand that Alameda City Council, like other local governments, has been deluged by activists demanding a local response to foreign affairs. Most of the people who have spoken in Alameda made inflammatory comments, claiming Israel is an “apartheid state carrying out a genocide.” By placing the issue on the official agenda, Mayor Ashcraft has fanned the flames of these lies.

As we have clearly seen from the “debates” in Richmond and Oakland, the only thing formally discussing this war does is legitimize anti-Israel and anti-Jewish rhetoric. We will not solve the Middle East Crisis in the Alameda City Council. But your ethical leadership is needed to ensure that everyone is welcome on the island.

The only thing Item 10-D on the January 2nd agenda accomplishes is increasing division locally by legitimizing hateful rhetoric. I urge you to reject the referral and reject the idea of the Council sending a letter to federal officials on this topic.

Sincerely,
Hannah Schlacter, Citizen
Hannah Schlacter
Oakland, CA
847-404-8501
Pronouns: she/her/hers
From: Rebecca Cyr
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda item 10-D
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 9:23:11 AM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
I am a former board member of the Friends of the Alameda Free Library, a donor of (and dog walker at) the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter, and a resident of Alameda since February 2018. I am writing as a concerned member of the Alameda community to urge you to support Mayor Ashcraft’s letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The recent escalation of violence has resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread suffering for innocent Palestinian civilians, and it is imperative that our city council takes a stand for peace and humanitarian values.

During a recent walkout, students at Encinal High School reported feeling unsafe demonstrating solidarity with Palestine. The conflation of Zionism with Judaism has also led to Jewish community members feeling unsafe and targeted. Mayor Ashcraft’s letter sends a message to impacted community members that their representatives hear their safety concerns.

Ceasefire is a moral issue. As a resident of Alameda, I believe that our community has a role to play in advocating for peace in Gaza. The images and reports of civilian casualties, including children, are deeply distressing. It is clear that a lasting solution can only be achieved through diplomatic efforts and a commitment to dialogue. Our Congresswoman Barbara Lee has signed on to the congressional ceasefire resolution and was courageous in her disavowal of the war in Iraq. Endorsing a ceasefire in Alameda not only follows her leadership, but adds constituent weight to her position and adds our city to the growing list of municipalities taking a moral stand.

Ceasefire is a local issue. US Campaign for Palestinian Rights estimates that
Alameda taxpayers give $1,115,883 to fund Israel’s violence against Palestinian people. Those tax dollars could be coming back into our community for needed services. Additionally, Alameda is home to hundreds of union members and community members whose unions and community organizations have endorsed an immediate ceasefire.

I understand that international conflicts are complex, and our local government may have limited influence on global affairs. However, by taking a principled stand, Alameda can contribute to the collective voice advocating for peace and the protection of civilian lives.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and trust that you will consider the urgency of the situation. I look forward to hearing about any actions our city council may take to address this critical issue.

Sincerely,
Rebecca Cyr
From: marcy voyevod
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] cease fire is a local issue
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 12:28:18 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
I have lived in Alameda, on the West End since 1996. I have been an active participant and volunteer for many programs throughout my time here, first as an Interior Designer and artist and now retired. Finding this wonderful group of people, Alameda Friends and Family 4 Cease Fire, who have organized these peaceful protests and called our attention to how to make changes by starting in our community, has been so helpful. Since the war in Ukraine and now Palestine I have felt useless. I didn't know what to do for people who were suffering, but now I can help, even if in a small way. I grew up in San Diego in the 50's as a Russian Jewish girl. I was harassed many times, teased and scared by the mostly white, conservative, racist community. In a very small way I understand the fear and sadness the people in Gaza must feel.

I am writing as a concerned member of our community to urge you to support Mayor Ashcraft’s letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The recent escalation of violence has resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread suffering for innocent Palestinian civilians, and it is imperative that our city council takes a stand for peace and humanitarian values.

During a recent walkout, students at Encinal High School reported feeling unsafe demonstrating solidarity with Palestine. The conflation of Zionism with Judaism has also led to Jewish community members feeling unsafe and targeted. Mayor Ashcraft’s letter
sends a message to impacted community members that their representatives hear their safety concerns.

Ceasefire is a moral issue. As a resident of Alameda, I believe that our community has a role to play in advocating for a peace in Gaza. The images and reports of civilian casualties, including children, are deeply distressing. It is clear that a lasting solution can only be achieved through diplomatic efforts and a commitment to dialogue. Our Congresswoman Barbara Lee has signed on to the congressional ceasefire resolution and was courageous in her disavowal of the war in Iraq.

Endorsing a ceasefire in Alameda not only follows her leadership, but adds constituent weight to her position and adds our city to the growing list of municipalities taking a moral stand.

Ceasefire is a local issue. US Campaign for Palestinian Rights estimates that Alameda taxpayers give $1,115,883 to fund Israel’s violence against Palestinian people. Those tax dollars could be coming back into our community for needed services. Additionally, Alameda is home to hundreds of union members and community members whose unions and community organizations have endorsed an immediate ceasefire.

Sincerely,
Marcy Voyevod
--
marcy voyevod
510.325.4310
www.marcyvoyevodstudio.com
@marcyvoyevodstudio
From: Zhanna Panich
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Alameda City Board voting on a ceasefire Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:52:30 PM
>> Hello.
>> It has come to my attention that the city of Alameda Mayor had added a letter to vote on resolution for a cease fire in Israel. As an Alamedan, I am taking issue with this for several reasons:
>> 1. You have more important things to do that actually affect us here in our city. Alameda city govt. has no business wasting their time on meaningless votes about another country. What does Alameda have to do with national politics of Israel or gain from this vote?
>>
>> 2. It is a politically charged and divisive issue about a terrorist organization whose goal is the Jewish genocide. If it was about the land Palestinians think is theirs, this dispute would have been solved long ago. Either way your vote goes, it would not even reach Israel's oficials, but it would put a further negative divide between folks in our community and endanger Jews and Arabs living in Alameda. >>
>> I urge you to please remove this letter and vote from your agenda at your next meeting, & if you do vote, please vote against the cease fire as the only ones that benefit from it are Hamas. >>
>> As we are coming into 2024, this vote is the last thing Alameda City Board should be concerned with. >>
>> Thank you.
>> Zhanna Panich
>> Alameda resident
>>
>>
From: Hilda Poulson
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; Manager Manager; Lara Weisiger; Yibin Shen; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Israel Palestine
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 10:56:01 AM
As my previous submissions have registered, I am in support of Item 10-D on the Jan. 2, 2024, City Council Meeting Agenda. See below for a letter I sent to family and friends, some of whom live in Israel, on October 17th 2023.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Hilda Poulson <[email protected]
>
Date: Tue, Oct 17, 2023 at 12:26 PM
Subject: Israel Palestine
To: Hilda_family_friends <[email protected] >
Hi folks,
I've spent several days thinking about what I wish to say and how I wish to say it. I know some of you will disagree with me, and this is ok with me.

For those who don’t know, I was raised Jewish, in the conservative movement. I was Bat Mitzvah’d and attended religious school through high school. I went to Brandeis for undergrad.

As someone who is pretty familiar with Judaism's principle beliefs and precepts, it is difficult for me to imagine anything less aligned with the tenets of Judaism as I learned them, than what the Israeli government is doing to the Palestinian people.

It’s long been a source of shame in my life that I belong to a people who survived the Holocaust, who have nevertheless gone on to perpetrate another holocaust on another people.

We were put in concentration camps, and now we put others in concentration camps. The rhetoric Israeli leaders use when speaking about Palestinians calls to mind the way Nazi leaders spoke about Jews. They called us animals, dehumanized us, and now we do the same to others.

I like being Jewish. I have other identities, but Jewish is the one I most frequently claim publicly. And yet the politics and policies of the Israeli government vis a vis Palestinians have caused me to distance myself from Judaism, from Jewish life and culture. How can I inhabit Jewish spaces, when my position on Palestine brands me an anti-semite, a self-hating Jew? I think people feel intimidated by Israel and Palestine because we are told that it’s a complicated issue. It’s not complicated. One side has all the money, power and resources, and the other side has nothing. That’s it. When we talk about blame and responsibility for the current situation in Israel, power matters. One side is oppressed, the other side is using their immense power and resources to do the oppressing.

Moreover, the side with the money and power hasn’t always held such a privileged position. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that until relatively recently, the positionality of Jews in the wider world more closely resembled that of Gypsies, or of refugees from North African countries. In many ways, Jews were the original Palestinians, an unwanted people without a homeland, tolerated at best and reviled and targeted at worst.

All of this makes the extraordinary violence perpetrated by the Israeli government on the Palestinian people all the more reprehensible. Is it wrong to say, in light of our history, that Jews should know better, be better? To my mind, a true Jewish state would be a nation state that welcomed all peoples, that gave deference to and strove to live in harmony with those already living on the land, because Jews, more than many other peoples, know what it is to be oppressed.

People have reached out this past week, checking on me and my family in light of the violent attack by Hamas. While I very much appreciate the concern, and am grateful family and friends in Israel are safe, I find myself wondering: why don't people ask how we are doing whenever the IDF bombs a neighborhood in Gaza, or whenever extremist settlers attack Palesinians in the West Bank? As a Jew, am I only able to grieve the suffering and death of those who look like me, who pray like me?
I've long been disturbed by the fact that the world only talks about Palestinians when something happens to Israelis, when Hamas or Hezbollah or some other militant group commits violence against Jewish Israelis. In between these violent episodes, the plight of the Palestinian people is barely mentioned, despite the fact that the Israeli military regularly commits acts of violence against Palestinian men, women and children, despite the fact that the Israeli government rips Palestinians from their homes as they sanction ever more settlements. Think about that. Palestinian death and suffering only ever matters to the world in the context of Jewish Israeli death and suffering. And it’s been this way for years. If your pain and suffering was only ever acknowledged in the context of someone else's pain and suffering, how would that impact your sense of your own humanity?
Make no mistake: this war in Gaza is not just. It is not about Israel's right to defend itself.

More violence only serves to endanger the lives of the Israeli hostages taken by Hamas.

Contrary to what the Israeli government would have you believe, war will not make Israelis, or Jews, or anyone, any safer. But of course, that’s not the goal of Netanyahu or his ilk. The current government of Israel is only too happy for an excuse to continue the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people begun in 1948. In that year, 700,000 Palestians were driven from their homes. Last week, the Israeli government ordered 1.1 million Palestinians living in the North of Gaza to move South or risk death and destruction. We are witnessing a second Nakba.

While it is certainly antisemitic to hate Jews and want to kill Jews for being Jewish, it is not antisemitic to acknowledge the geo-political context surrounding the brutal terrorist attack perpetrated by Hamas last week. It is not antisemitic to criticize the government of Israel, to point out the Israeli military's disproportionate power and resources relative to Gaza, or to acknowledge and demand redress for the plight of the Palestinian people. When we try to silence legitimate criticism with charges of antisemitism, when we demand everyone just shut up and support Israel's right to defend itself, we are in dangerous territory as a society. We only have to look at the jingoistic fervor following 9/11 and the ensuing forever wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to know this.

Last week I had a conversation with a dear childhood friend from my religious school days.

This friend reminded me of how religious school teachers and classmates alike used to rail at me and criticize me whenever I spoke up on behalf of Palestine, whenever I would question why we were so focused on the pain and suffering of Jews to the exclusion of everyone else. "We all used to yell at you, but you were right. All along, you were right," he told me.

I don't care about being right. I just want innocent people to stop dying.

Love,
Hilda
Things I’m reading and watching and listening to are below. I welcome suggestions and additions to this list.

Netanyahu Bears Responsibility for This Israel-Gaza War - Haaretz Editorial - Haaretz.com A Textbook Case of Genocide
Have We Learned Nothing? | Online Only | n+1 | David Klion Where the Palestinian Political Project Goes from Here | The New Yorker https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intercepted/id1195206601?i=1000630940935 Jeremy Scahill interview with Al Jazeera’s senior political analyst Marwan Bishara https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deconstructed/id1354611827?i=1000631194828 Ryan Grim is joined by Intercept reporter Alice Speri, who has frequently reported from occupied Palestinian territory, and Palestinian American writer and political analyst Yousef Munayyer. https://youtu.be/pRXPImNyMXM?si=riiRKz1SV8rHlabz Palestinian writer and intellectual Ghassan Kanafani speaking about Palestinian liberation in the 70s https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intercepted/id1195206601?i=1000411674084 This interview with Norman Finkelstein is from 2018, but is very relevant today- it starts around the 40 minute mark.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pod-save-the-world/id1200016351?i=1000631277023 Definitely my most moderate, "normie" podcast, but I learn a lot about international politics from the folks at Pod Save the World.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-news-with-doug-henwood/id73801817? i=1000631139578 minute 29, interview with Israeli journalist and activist Haggai Matar --
Hilda Poulson
(310) 251-9667
--
Hilda Poulson
(310) 251-9667
From: Steven Chen
To: CityCouncil-List; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Jan. 2nd Agenda Item 10D
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 3:35:18 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft and Alameda City Councilmembers,

I am writing to thank you, Mayor Ashcraft, for putting forth a letter to support immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and to urge you, Alameda City Councilmembers, to support it. I deeply appreciate your leadership, courage, and clarity.

As a long time resident of Alameda and a physician serving our community, I am deeply disturbed by the pushback to support an immediate ceasefire, much less that longer term goals for Palestinian liberation and peaceful co-existence with Jewish communities are stymied.

As a physician, I swore an oath to "Do No Harm" and to take care of anyone who is afflicted by illness and suffering, regardless of race, religion, economic status, sexual orientation, disability status, and politics.

My fellow healthcare workers in Gaza are unable to carry out this oath when their healthcare system is being attacked by Israel. Israeli forces have made purposeful attacks on the healthcare system in Gaza, from bombing sites of healthcare delivery and the residences of physicians and nurses to the cutting off of food, electricity, fuel, medicine, water and other critical supplies needed for healthcare. Per Doctors Without Borders, 286 health care workers were killed in Gaza between October 7 and December 9, 2023. My colleagues in Gaza are currently performing surgery without anesthesia, pain medication, antibiotics and critical care instruments needed to care for patients safely. Medical staff should not have to choose between saving their own lives and those of their patients.

These attacks on the healthcare system has forced patients—especially those in critical condition— to either risk their lives and leave or be left behind to die without treatment. The principles of medical ethics as well as international law are being violated. The evacuation of patients— particularly those in critical condition, such as patients in the ICU or premature babies—is a complex task that requires appropriate resources, including special ambulances. The security situation on the ground makes it impossible to safely evacuate them. Doctors Without Borders staff have reported seeing people shot at as they attempt to flee or while inside hospitals like Al-Shifa; and have also tracked fifty-seven ambulances being hit and damaged between October 7 and December 9, 2023.

Israel’s complete siege coupled with active air strikes has ensured debilitation of healthcare delivery, amplifying the enormity of human suffering. This is a violation of International Humanitarian Law.

This is a tactic of genocide. Due to these indiscriminate attacks by Israeli forces, the 2.3 million Palestinians currently trapped in Gaza are facing a humanitarian catastrophe. Of the more than 20,000 people that have been killed, 8,663 have been children and nearly two million have been internally displaced. Without access to food, clean water, shelter, and health services, Palestinians in Gaza also face a heightened risk of disease. Doctors Without Borders report a significant increase in infectious diseases, including diarrhea, acute respiratory infections, skin infections, and outbreaks like hepatitis. The few hospitals that remain operational are overwhelmed and lack essential medical supplies. The lack of fuel and electricity is a death sentence for thousands of patients whose survival depends on medical equipment, such as babies in incubators. Hospitals are so overwhelmed that severely injured patients—often with infected wounds—are lying on the floors for lack of space. And from health care facilities to pharmacies, stocks of medicines and medical supplies are dwindling or nonexistent.

I stand with the healthcare workers in Gaza who are being harmed and killed while tending to the wounded. I cannot accept that we as an Alamedan community do not raise our united voices to say, "Stop! Enough is enough! No more killing!" The simple call for ceasefire makes us all safer. To block the call to stop the violence as thousands of people die is unconscionable. Thank you again for your leadership, courage, and conviction! I fully support your letter and will happily share my support within the medical communities and among neighbors here in Alameda.

Sincerely,

Steven Chen, MD
1209 Sherman St.

Alameda, CA 94501
The information contained within this email is considered confidential unless otherwise noted. Please do not forward the contents without first obtaining explicit consent. Thank you.

From: [email protected]
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 6:54:15 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

It is heartbreaking that those activists were praised for their rhetoric by the mayor. Ethical leadership requires you to reject this letter’s referral to the Council and to reject the contents of the letter. It is our duty as Americans to support our democratic allies in the fight against terrorism. Further, the only way for government to be effective is for each level of government to focus on the issues within its purview.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

We won’t solve international crises in the Alameda City Council. The only thing Item 10-D on the January 2nd agenda accomplishes is increasing division locally by legitimizing hateful rhetoric. I urge you to reject the referral and reject the idea of the Council sending a letter to federal officials on this topic.

Sincerely,
- Juliana
From: LESLIE EDELMAN
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:35:27 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Leslie Edelman
Leslie Edelman
510.332.0525
From: Deborah Shapiro
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:38:04 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Deborah Shapiro
Worked in City of Alameda from 2000-2010 and used family childcare services in Alameda during that period as well
From: Terry Friedkin
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 9:47:06 PM
Dear Alameda City Council:

I visit Alameda every week bringing 3 children to Aquatech Swim School, getting Safeway Gasoline and also often visit the beach and restaurants.

I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Ludmila Feigelson
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 11:27:25 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Ludmila
From: Patrick Feigelson
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 11:28:16 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Sent from mobile device. Pardon brevity. Thank you.

From: Neil Taxy
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 11:38:49 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely, Neil Taxy
Sent from my iPhone
From: David Marinoff
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: Manager Manager; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 11:53:11 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
David Marinoff
Sent from my iPhone
From: Daphna Ross
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I OPPOSE ITEM 10-D. NO INFLAMMATORY RESOLUTIONS OR LETTERS! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 5:51:00 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Daphna Ross
From: Roxanne Rosenthal
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 4:58:43 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Roxanne Rosenthal
From: Roan Byrne-Sarno
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] In Support of Agenda item 10-D
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 7:27:34 PM
Alameda City Councilmembers:

I am writing today in support of sending a letter demanding a permanent and immediate ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.

I have lived in Alameda for my whole life and I am currently attending high school in the Alameda Unified School District. I want to convey a sense of urgency when I tell you that the letter Mayor Ashcraft drafted must be passed. We can not stand idly by as a war that has killed at least 20,000 innocent people rages on.

One thing that I have learned from living on this island, attending its schools, and spending my life here is that injustice must always be combated. Whether it be the anti-bullying assemblies I went to in 1st grade, or the stories of Gandhi and Martin Luther King resisting imperialism and systematic oppression I learned in history class. This island has taught me that we must take a stand to stop unacceptable actions.

Since October 7th nearly 100,000 people have been killed, injured, or gone missing because of this war. And millions more around the world have been affected by the deaths of their family and friends because of it. My classmates have lost friends and community members because of the war. This is not an isolated conflict happening across the globe, but a tragedy happening right before our eyes directly affecting our community.

Additionally, it is our money going into this war. The US Campaign for Palestinian Rights estimates that Alameda taxpayers give $1,115,883 to fund Israel’s violence against Palestinian people. Money that could be going into my education is instead being spent on killing people in a senseless conflict. When I see my classmates with outdated, worn-down textbooks I wonder why our money is going to wars that the people of Alameda do not support. In fact, two-thirds of Americans, including a majority of both Democrats and Republicans, demand an immediate ceasefire. By sending this letter, we are telling the federal government that our money should be spent on programs that our city actually wants and needs.

As I was saying before, this war has had deep effects on the people of Alameda. The war makes many of our community members less safe, including Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, and Jews. In Alameda, our unofficial motto is “Everyone belongs here,” yet we are hearing that Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim community members are afraid of being doxxed or losing their jobs for attending events or speaking out in solidarity with Palestinians. During a recent walkout, students at Encinal High School reported feeling unsafe demonstrating solidarity with Palestine. The conflation of Zionism with Judaism has also led to Jewish community members feeling unsafe and targeted. Mayor Ashcraft’s letter sends a message to impacted community members that their representatives hear their safety concerns.

Alameda is my home, I have lived here my whole life and I love this island. I could never imagine my home being taken away from me, but for the kids in Palestine that is a reality that they are forced to face. We must stand together to stop the violence, the bloodshed, and the cost that this war is having in the Middle East and at home. I urge you to vote to send this letter so Alameda can take a stand against injustice.

Urgently,
Roan Byrne-Sarno
From: Leslie Valas
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Item 10-D; City Council Agenda
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 7:55:26 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am a Bay Area citizen who visits Alameda on a regular basis. I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Leslie Valas
From: Steven Chen
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Jan. 2nd Agenda Item 10D
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 3:25:19 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft and Alameda City Councilmembers,

Sincerely,

Steven Chen, MD
1209 Sherman St.

From: Molly Laufer
To: City Clerk; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; CityCouncil-List Subject: [EXTERNAL] No on Alameda City Council Ceasefire Resolution Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 3:16:50 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
I am writing to you regarding item 10-D of the Alameda City Council January 2nd Meeting to voice my position to not send a letter on Behalf of Council to federal officials regarding the Gaza Ceasefire. I have been a resident of Alameda for nearly 5 years and for the last few months, I have been very impressed by the City Council and AUSD's position in the face of the Hamas attack on Israel and ensuing Israel/Hamas war. Specifically both groups’ focus on their respective areas of purview - particularly in contrast to what we have seen come out of Oakland City Council and OEA. I have very much appreciated your presence at both the South Shore and Chabad Menorah lightings earlier this month, the strong police presence there, and your reminder that Alameda is a place where “everyone belongs here.” I have spoken positively to friends & our family in the Bay Area, across the country, and in Israel about how inclusive Alameda has been by focusing on ensuring all citizens feel safe by not taking public stances on topics outside of their area of purview. That’s why I was surprised and disappointed to see that you had drafted a Resolution on Alameda’s Support of a Ceasefire for Council approval.

To quote Superintendent Scuderi at the South Shore Menorah lighting earlier this month, “Our job right now is to double down on our core mission, which is to make sure that our kids can learn in safe environments, learn critical thinking, and can learn collaboration.” I implore you to take a page from his book and to focus the council not on matters of foreign policy, international conflict, and Middle East counterterrorism tactics, but instead on the safety, security, and belonging of the residents who you serve - right here, right now.

Simply put: a local resolution demanding a ceasefire does nothing to sway the actions of the federal government’s actions. Contrary to what AFFC claims in their messages and protests , a
ceasefire in Gaza is not in fact a local fiscal issue. Federal funding for foreign governments are not fungible and a ceasefire in Gaza does not lead to a “trickle down” of federal dollars back to the island to support any number of areas that they claim it would. On that note - the time, energy, and resources of our City Council are fungible, and the hours that have been spent on this topic alone could have been better invested to solve actual, tangible local issues that affect all Alamedans such as safety, education, and affordable housing, regardless of their political opinions, religion, or ethnicity.

A one-sided call for ceasefire (where you demand Israel lay down her weapons but make no such demands of Hamas, the provocating entity) does not make anyone - Israelis or Alamedans - any safer. As I am sure you are aware, antisemitic acts are on the rise here locally in the Bay Area (look no further than our neighboring Chabad’s menorah which was thrown into Lake Merritt during Hanukkah). Already the seeds of hate towards Jewish people (under the guise of “anti-Zionism” and “anti-Israel”) can be seen in the ceasefire events and communications and online activities of those in favor of a local ceasefire resolution. To be clear - being in favor of a ceasefire in Gaza and a local official resolution in favor of a ceasefire should be mutually exclusive. An official resolution demanding a one-sided ceasefire emboldens those who feel justified in their opinions to continue to sow hate, fear, and unacceptance towards the many silent yet grieving and affected members of our community.

Please look beyond the loudest voices in the room (and on the internet) and consider instead the impact that the call for a one-sided ceasefire has - both the lack thereof at the international level and the very real impact locally on your citizens. Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.

Many thanks,
Molly Laufer
Molly P. Laufer
[email protected]
650.207.8135
@mollylauf
Sent via Superhuman
From: Tamara Leider
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Oppose Item 10-D
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 7:33:59 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

It is heartbreaking that those activists were praised for their rhetoric by the mayor.

Ethical leadership requires you to reject this letter’s referral to the Council and to reject the contents of the letter. It is our duty as Americans to support our democratic allies in the fight against terrorism. Further, the only way for government to be effective is for each level of government to focus on the issues within its purview.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Tamara Leider
From: ISIS YEUNG PICCILLO
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for city council meeting Jan. 2 2024 agenda item 10D Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 12:05:14 PM
Hi,
I am writing in support of agenda item 10D for the Jan. 2, 2024 Alameda city council meeting.

As an employee of the city of Alameda and a longtime visitor with family on the island, it is imperative that we, as a city, join the call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Thank you,
Isis Piccillo
AnonymousletterstoAlamedaCityCouncil inSupport of Item10D, Mayor’sletter forimmediateceasefire-submittedonorbefore12.30.23 IamsogratefulforallyoureffortstoendthegenocideinGAZA. IamgoingtosendacopyofyourresolutiontoafriendinBethlehem..TherearemanyviolationsofhumanrightsanddeathsbyIsraelisintheWestBank.

DearAlamedaCityCouncilmembers,
IamaJewishpersonwhousedtoliveinAlamedaandstillvisitsfrequently,andI’mwritingasaconcernedmemberofourcommunitytourgeyoutosupportMayorAshcraft’slettercallingforanimmediateceasefireinGaza.TherecentescalationofviolencehasresultedintragiclossoflifeandwidespreadsufferingforinnocentPalestiniancivilians,anditisimperativethatourcitycounciltakesastandforpeaceandhumanitarianvalues.

Ceasefireisasafetyissue.TheongoingwarinPalestinemakesmanyofourcommunitymemberslesssafe,includingPalestinians,Arabs,Muslims,andJews.InAlameda,ourunofficialmottois“Everyonebelongshere,”yetwearehearingthatPalestinian,ArabandMuslimcommunitymembersareafraidofbeingdoxxedorlosingtheirjobsforattendingeventsorspeakingoutinsolidaritywithPalestinians.Duringarecentwalkout,studentsatEncinalHighSchoolreportedfeelingunsafedemonstratingsolidaritywithPalestine.TheconflationofZionismwithJudaismhasalsoledtoJewishcommunitymembersfeelingunsafeandtargeted.MayorAshcraft’slettersendsamessagetoimpactedcommunitymembersthattheirrepresentativesheartheirsafetyconcerns.

Ceasefireisamoralissue.AsaresidentofAlameda,IbelievethatourcommunityhasaroletoplayinadvocatingforapeaceinGaza.Theimagesandreportsofciviliancasualties,includingchildren,aredeeplydistressing.Itisclearthatalastingsolutioncanonlybeachievedthroughdiplomaticeffortsandacommitmenttodialogue.OurCongresswomanBarbaraLeehassignedontothecongressionalceasefireresolutionandwascourageousinherdisavowalofthewarinIraq.EndorsingaceasefireinAlamedanotonlyfollowsherleadership,butaddsconstituentweighttoherpositionandaddsourcitytothegrowinglistofmunicipalitiestakingamoralstand.

Ceasefireisalocalissue.USCampaignforPalestinianRightsestimatesthatAlamedataxpayersgive$1,115,883tofundIsrael’sviolenceagainstPalestinianpeople.Thosetaxdollarscouldbecomingbackintoourcommunityforneededservices.Additionally,Alamedaishometohundredsofunionmembersandcommunitymemberswhoseunionsandcommunityorganizationshaveendorsedanimmediateceasefire.

Iunderstandthatinternationalconflictsarecomplex,andourlocalgovernmentmayhavelimitedinfluenceonglobalaffairs.However,bytakingaprincipledstand,Alamedacancontributetothecollectivevoiceadvocatingforpeaceandtheprotectionofcivilianlives.

Iappreciateyourattentiontothismatterandtrustthatyouwillconsidertheurgencyofthesituation.Ilookforwardtohearingaboutanyactionsourcitycouncilmaytaketoaddressthiscriticalissue.

IurgeyoutopleasestandwiththemanydiversecommunitymemberswhodenouncetheuseofourAmericantaxdollarstoprovideabelligerentIsraelleader,Netanyahu,whocontinuestobombUNrefugeeshelters,hospitals,UNschools,universities,journalists,photographers...allofthechildrenofGaza,humanitarianworkers,doctors,nurseswhohavehadtoamputatechildrenwithoutanesthesiaetc...Itisourmoralimperativetostandupforpeaceandnon-violencewhichcanONLYhappenwithaPermanentCeasefirebyPresidentJoeBiden.OnlyPresidentBidencanstoptheuseofourtaxdollarsfromthebarbaricviolenceandgenocidalactsofIsraeliPMNetanyahu.StoptheoccupationofPalestineandyouwillstopHamas.

I’maPalestinianmotherof3thatlivesinAlameda.Iamrespectfullyyetfirmlyurgingyoutocallforaceasefire.AsaPalestinianthatspenthalfofherlifeintheWestBank,IgotusedtobeingmistreatedandhumiliatedandhurtbytheIDFonadailybasisanditbecamemynorm.IconsideredmyselfluckytobefromtheWestBanksincewewereneverbombedorstruckwithmissileslikethoseinGaza.Now,watchingthenewseverydayforthelast85daysinmyhomeland,Iamextremelysaddenedbytheinnocentlife-lovinglivesthatarebeingtakenbytheIDF.Unidentifiedorphanchildrenthatwillgrowtoneverknowtowhichfamilytheybelongandparentsthatwillneverbegiventhetitle‘parent’againafterlosingalltheirchildrentothisgenocide.WehaveneverseenescalationstothisextentandruthlessnessandbrutalitytothesoulsofthePalestinians.Pleaseceasefirenowandforever!AfearthatIhaveyetnotsharedwithanyoneandamsharingitherewithyouisfortheIDFtodotheirusualhostage-takingofthePalestiniansandtotakemyoldfatherandriphimfullyofhisclothesinthestreetsandblindfoldhimasthey’vebeendoingintheWestBankinthelast3months.Please,please,pleasehelpus.Palestiniansdeservetohavehumanrightsasanyoneanywhereelseintheworld.Ilookatmy3childrenandwonderwhyIsraelwouldwantthemdead.HowcanthoseinnocentlittlehumansbeconsideredathreattothestateofIsrael.How!?FreePalestineandCeasefirenow! DearMayor,
I’mwritingtoencourageyoutostandontherightsideofhistoryinsupportingaceasefireinGaza.Onedaythiswarwillendandwemustdoallthatwecantobringthatpeacetofruition.SmallcitiesandstudentledactionssparkedaglobalmovementthatendedtheapartheidinSouthAfrica.Everyvoicematters.IhaveJewishandMuslimfamilymembersandIbelievethattheyalldeserverespectandpeacelikeanyotherhumanbeing.WhenpeoplearguethattheirfeelingswouldbehurtbyaceasefireIcan’thelpbutwonderwhy?AreMuslimfeelingshurtwhenpeoplecriticizeSaudiArabiaorIran?Ofcoursenot.Whennationscommitcrimestheymustbeheldaccountable.Dowecaremoreaboutfeelingsorthelivesofchildrenandinnocentcivilians?Iscallingforanendtowarcontroversial?Theseareallsadjustificationsforgenocide.Pleasecontinuetofightforwhatisright.Thankyouforyourtimeandyourcourage.Youarestandingonthesideofpeace.

From: AFF4C
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; Manager Manager; Lara Weisiger; Yibin Shen; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Item 10-D on Jan. 2, 2024, City Council Meeting Agenda Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 9:46:42 PM
Attachments: Anonymous letters to Alameda City Council in Support of Item 10D, Mayor’s letter for immediate ceasefire.pdf Dear Mayor Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Daysog & Council Members Vella, Spencer & Jensen:

Please find attached letters of support for item 10 D on the January 2nd agenda. These letters come from Alameda residents who, out of concern for their safety and livelihoods, preferred to submit letters of support anonymously.
--
Alameda Families & Friends for Ceasefire
Follow us on Instagram @ alameda4ceasefire and
Facebook @ Alameda Families and Friends for Ceasefire
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Please do not support a resolution on Hamas-Israel ceasefire Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:35:11 PM
From: Susan Lebe <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:01:14 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please do not support a resolution on Hamas-Israel ceasefire Hello Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I'm writing to ask that you not support a resolution on a Israel-Hamas ceasefire on behalf of Alamedans. Those who study or work with the Middle East know that this crisis is longstanding and highly complex, as well as heart wrenching. For the Council to take a stand to support a ceasefire is simplistic and not within the role of 5 City Councilmembers. The unintended consequences would be to further polarize Alamedans on this issue and potentially create unsafe situations for our youth and adults.

Please continue to work on local issues that improve Alamedan's quality of life. If individual Alamedans would like to express opinions to their Senators, they can write their own letters.

Please take no action on a resolution.

Respectfully,
Susan Lebe
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Please oppose Item 10-D (Focus on Alameda) Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:35:43 PM
From: Tamara Leider <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 7:37:16 PM
To: Tamara Leider <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please oppose Item 10-D (Focus on Alameda) Dear Alameda City Council,
I have been a Bay Area citizen for more than a decade, and I visit Alameda frequently. I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy. Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Tamara Leider

From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Please vote for a ceasefire
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:36:43 PM
From: Wayel Fare <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 7:27:47 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote for a ceasefire
Council members,
I am a lifelong resident born and raised here on the island. My father was Palestinian and settled here in Alameda and was the owner of Lincoln Market on Lincoln avenue right next to the Acapulco restaurant. He owned the store for 30+ years working 7 days a week and 12 hours a day putting me and my sisters through college. Shortly after he sold the store in 1989, he visited his homeland Palestine to spend a little time with his siblings. A few weeks after he arrived he suffered a heart attack and the ambulance was called, but on the way to the hospital the ambulance was stopped at a checkpoint and was not allowed to leave, he died in the ambulance. This was not an isolated incident, a few years later a cousin who lived in alameda for a large portion of her adult life , lost her baby during delivery on the side of the road as the car was stopped at a checkpoint. What the Zionists are doing is genocide with more than 20,000 already slaughtered how many more?
I support agenda item 10D, and I urge the council to vote for Mayor Ashcraft’s ceasefire letter”
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
From: Aleyderm
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 2:47:26 PM
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:

From: Tony Daysog <[email protected]>
Date: December 29, 2023 at 10:15:14 PM CST
To: Aleyderm <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters!

Hi: thank you, Anna, for your email. If you want to submit your email into the official record and have it posted on the website, forward your email to:
[email protected]
- Tony
From: Aleyderm <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, December 29, 2023 4:11:13 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; [email protected]
Cc: Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters!

Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy.

Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Anna Leyderman
Sent from my iPhone
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 8:52:17 AM
From: tali krakowsky <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 3:21:14 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy.

Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

We consider moving to Alameda and buying a house there but will no longer do so, given how misled the governing body is. We cannot raise our children in antisemitism town.

Sincerely,
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Alameda Resolution for Cease Fire
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:26:45 PM
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:06:14 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Alameda Resolution for Cease Fire
I have recently become aware that the City of Alameda is proposing to vote for a resolution for a Cease Fire. I am against this being taken up by the City of Alameda as it has proven to only cause infighting within residents of various cities over this issue and the city of Alameda is tasked with handling municipal issues of the city, not national or international issues.. There is a strong possibility that taking this action will only cause hostility within the existing residents of Alameda over this issue and will have no effect on creating a Cease fire between Irael and Gaza. Please reconsider proposing and passing this resolution.

From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 5:57:42 PM
From: Roxanne Rosenthal <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 3:42:32 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Dear Alameda City Council,
I am disheartened to learn that Item 10-D on the January 2 City Council Agenda is a letter demanding a change to U.S. foreign policy regarding the Hamas - Israel War.

First, city councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding foreign policy.

Further, there is more than one morally reasonable response to the ongoing war.

Of course, the loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza. I pray for peace.

Sincerely,
Roxanne Rosenthal
Sent from my iPhone
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Opposition to Item 10-D. Please do not ok inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:36:49 PM
From: Cheryl Gold Shaffer <[email protected]> Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 9:32:26 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Item 10-D. Please do not ok inflammatory resolutions or letters!
Dear Alameda City Council,
In considering whether to support a statement in support of a ceasefire in the Israel Hamas war, I would strongly urge you to take a few minutes to listen to a colleague of yours, Vice Mayor Pete Daily, as he contemplated the very same thing at a recent Los Alto City Council meeting. He is thoughtful and informative in explaining his vote against this.
https://www.youtube.com/live/Nk0X_cysrtg?si=1ojMAt400t2Onb5D&t=18603 Thank you for your consideration,
Cheryl Gold MD
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Please remove withdraw this letter of resolution Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:27:14 PM
From: Felicia <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 10:07:06 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please remove withdraw this letter of resolution Dear Mayor Ashcraft and BOD members:

Please govern our City and remove this from the slate at the upcoming meeting of 1/2/2024.

I can't image this will solve the issue....if anything it will create more chaos..which we have already had far to much of..

This is a very divisive issue..and very personal for many.. .Per the Alameda City Charter( our constitution) the responsibility of the City is to deal with municipal affairs-- not national or international affairs.

This is taking valuable time away from the responsibilities of running our City.

We voted you all in to do just that..run the City.

You all have done a wonderful job in steering our City through so much..please please..pause.

With respect and a thankful heart.

Dr. and Mrs. David and Felicia Jalen
Thank you,
Dr. and Mrs
Per the Alameda City Charter( our constitution) the responsibility of the City is to deal with municipal affairs-- not national or international affairs.

From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Public correspondence on ceasefire in Gaza letter Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:36:12 PM
From: Dan Tell <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 9:53:46 AM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public correspondence on ceasefire in Gaza letter Dear Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Councilmembers Vella, Spencer, Daysog, and Jensen, I write you today as a concerned constituent and resident of Alameda over the referral for an item to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. I have read the Mayor’s proposed letter and while I appreciate the effort to propose a balanced perspective, I still worry it sends a message that will be ineffective globally and still have a profound negative effect in your community.

I have spoken before council before on issues like policing in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, but I write today rather than speaking for concern of putting my face before the community on this issue. I am Jewish, and while I have always believed in the importance of using my white-passing skin to speak up in defense of other minorities, today it is my people at risk, and I fear publicly standing before council and making myself a target for hate. I do not say this lightly as two short months ago I gave a speech in Germany where I spoke of the personal effects of antisemitism, pogroms, and the Holocaust on my life and the history of my family. I was commended by the German audience for my bravery, but I returned to my own country and found fear amplified.

Mixed in with legitimate criticism of Israel, its actions and its policies has been a freshed voice of antisemitism. I shuddered thinking of how just a few years ago a literal torch- wielding mob in Charlottesville chanted “Jews will not replace us!” while our then- president called them “very fine people.” These same attitudes have seen this conflict as an opportunity to once again amplify antisemitism, commingled with criticism of Israel, to make it clear that Jews should feel unwelcome in this world and in our communities.

I hope you can appreciate that I had no fear standing before a German audience speaking of the personal effects and history of antisemitism and the Holocaust, because I trust in the cultural contrition and acceptance of the German people. I spoke to an audience of science education professionals in Jena, Germany, where historical markers along the road through the city identify the trail where my people were marched to their deaths.

Yet while I trust the children of those who attempted the extermination of my own people to be understanding and empathetic, I write to you rather than speaking up publicly because I no longer feel safe as a Jew in my own community and country in the here and now.

I will agree with anyone the situation between Israel and Gaza is tragic and nuanced. I have long been critical of Israeli policy towards Gaza, I have done what I can to speak up in American Jewish communities and supported individual Palestinians through charity.

I have criticized the corruption of Israeli government officials and the brinksmanship that has pushed us to the current situation. But on October 7th, Hamas led an unforgivable attack. More Jews—not just Israelis but global visitors—were killed in a single day than any day since the Holocaust. And not just killed, but brutally tortured, abused, raped,
mutilated and kidnapped all while Hamas gleefully filmed and broadcast this footage to the world. Perhaps you have already read the New York Times investigation published last week into the sexual violence committed by Hamas on that day and to hostages since —if not I would implore you to do so.

I write to you because I beg of you to not support a call for unilateral ceasefire. While I believe in peace as a goal in this world and mourn the deaths of innocents anywhere, we must also recognize the horrific cruelties executed against Jews on October 7. We must recognize that hostages are still being held and tortured by Hamas and their agents. We must recognize that the death toll was amplified in this conflict by Hamas’ own sacrifice of civilians that they refused to let evacuate or placed in front of their weaponized positions. We must recognize that the last ceasefire was broken by Hamas’ own terror attacks in Jerusalem and their inability or unwillingness to continue releasing Jewish hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners under the terms of the ceasefire. We must recognize that Hamas’ leadership has unapologetically vowed they will abide by no ceasefire and will continue their daily barrages of rockets to Israel and have promised to repeat the attacks of October 7th until the Jewish people are eliminated. We must recognize any such ceasefire would be one-sided and asks for Jews to stand by idly and accept the kidnap, rape, torture and murder of our people—of our children—rather than stand in self-defense and attempt to rescue them. Jews have not been in a position of self-defense since we were colonized by the Roman Empire 2000 years ago, and for this inability to defend ourselves we suffered cruelty after cruelty culminating in the genocide of nearly half of our population just 80 years ago, from which our numbers are only just now recovering.

I feel for the children of Gaza too. Just as I see my own child in the reports of child hostage and victims of Hamas, I see how my Muslim and Arab friends see their own families in the Palestinians. But we must recognize it is the cruelty of Hamas that prompted this and Palestinians can never be free while they are themselves held prisoner by the leadership of Hamas, who protect themselves in opulence in Qatar and Turkey while they sacrifice their own people to increase their wealth and clout.

Not long ago Oakland adopted a resolution calling for a ceasefire, and after some debate also refused to condemn the actions of Hamas or call for the release of hostages. Not long after the hanukkiah menorah at Lake Merritt was vandalized, one of the most public displays of antisemitism, but far from the only one as anti-Jewish graffiti has lined streets and storefronts in Oakland, San Francisco and elsewhere following anti-Israel demonstrations. Regardless of the legitimate concern for the Palestinian people, antisemites have used this as an opportunity to shield themselves and their hate, making it public how they also want American Jews to feel unsafe and unwelcome in our communities. I am deeply concerned your letter on behalf of Alameda will also increase the public hate against my family and Alameda Alameda families like mine. I felt this fear putting out Hanukkah decorations on my lawn this year and remain haunted by it, concerned the mezuzah on my door will invite vandalism, robbery or attack—but I cannot and should not have to hide my faith and heritage out of fear.

Neither Israel nor Palestine can know peace while Hamas is in power, just as the United States could not know peace in the time of the Confederacy. Hamas is not an organization prepared for or interested in good governance, and the Palestinian people deserve better as well. They too deserve a society where women and minorities will have equal rights. Where people can be free to practice their own faith and express their true selves and their true loves. Hamas believes in none of the values of diversity and inclusion. The road to peace will be in the reconstruction of Palestine after this war, and that is where I believe we should apply our global pressure, into supporting generous rebuilding of Palestine and the support of education and resources to help Palestine flourish into the state its people deserve and not one held captive by cruel terrorists and profiteers.

This is where I urge you to use your political power. Not to encourage Israel to abandon the hostages still held captive and capitulate to the terror of Hamas, but to encourage a vision for a peaceful Israel and Palestine of the future where the states can functionally coexist.

I will close by saying I have long been a proud American. I long believed that the assimilation of my people into American culture was our best path forward for survival. I have believed that even growing up being shamed, mocked and excluded because of my beliefs and heritage. But lately I have though much about Germany at the dawn of the 20th century. In Berlin and Hamburg, rabbis proposed that the diaspora was the necessary fate of Judaism, that we were to be diffused into the world to serve other nations rather than be entitled our own, and that the romantic, intellectual culture of Germany made it as much our Promised Land as anywhere could be. These rabbis founded the Reform movement in Judaism that I grew up in. Within a few short decades, the intellectual liberalism of Germany was replaced with the cruel misguided populism of Naziism, and six million Jews would be enslaved, worked to death, and murdered.

Both my and my wife’s families emigrated from Mogilev, Belarus, where in 1941 Nazi military police rounded up the remaining Jews in the city and unceremoniously murdered them.

I fear these same rising tides of antisemitism, I fear this country I thought was the hope for our people will descend into the same hate. Every Jewish family has known the fear of finding swastikas spray painted in their neighborhoods or near our houses of worship for decades—and now we fear repeats of the mass shootings that have already happened at American synagogues. I fear how the combination of antisemitism with anti-Israel policy makes clear that those who hate Jews believe we do not belong anywhere on this Earth, deserving neither our own state, nor to be welcome among the other nations of the world. Those who see this as the opportunity for our extermination are eager for governments and public officials to give them the perceived license to act on their hatred.

I implore you, do not encourage Alameda to be such a home to hate, but to be a beacon of hope and a safe haven for refugees. If you must speak for ceasefire please do so as individual private citizens, not as the voice and leaders of our city.

Dan Tell
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Regarding Mayor"s planned agenda ?
Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023 1:01:36 PM
From: Marilyn Grabina-Smiler <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2023 11:21:24 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Regarding Mayor's planned agenda ?
Dear council members
As concerned Alameda resident ( for over 40 years !) I expect and demand that a condemnation of hamas atrocities, massacres, etc. , be citied verbally and openly stated at the meeting planned by Mayor Ezzy.

The limitations placed on being able to voice opinion other than what the mayor states is troubling, to many Alamedan residents, including myself.

Zoom? Why? Are you afraid of people showing up at city hall? I strongly urge the city council not to accept any letter unless there is explicit condemnation of Hamas.

Sincerely,
Marilyn Grabina

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Alameda City CouncilJanuary 2, 2024

Alameda City Council
January 2, 2024