Correspondence: Updated 12/31/2023 — Alameda City Council, January 2, 2024

From: Justice Advocate
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; City Clerk Subject: [EXTERNAL] 10D 1/2/24 Yes! The violence harms Israel & USA; diseases proliferating;our children would inherit war
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 2:20:26 AM
Excellent point in the letter, where it states that city council members are "not elected to simply represent our constituents, but
also to set an example of ethical leadership."
It is commendable that you are not merely putting your finger in the wind and saying what seems to be the easy or popular thing to say. Sometimes the truth hurts, and the truth is that we Americans are funding a disaster which can be prevented only by putting pressure on the people who are engaging in the violence and also the people who are justifying the violence with the endless series of canards which are flooding social media.

Contrary to the simplistic reductionism so popular online, a cease fire will serve the interests of Israelis and ultimately Americans by facilitating a hostage exchange which is the only hope to save the hostages.

The fantasy that invincible IDF soldiers will find the hostages and set them free is not likely.

So far, we have seen that hostages have been killed by the ongoing aerial bombardment or by friendly fire from IDF ground forces. This merciless bombardment is not serving the interests of Israel or America. It is serving the interest of Benjamin Netanyahu and his coterie of hyper-conservatives who, let's face it, are fascists and racial supremacists whose attitude towards the Palestinians and Arabs in general is too repellant to even name.

If this violence is not stopped, our children and grandchildren will inherent a spiral that can only lead to wider war, if not world war, and America will be drawn into a ground war in Iran. A final point: there is a grotesque humanitarian disaster unfolding and one of the developments is multi-drug resistant bacterial or fungal infections which threaten to spill over into Israel, and thus to the United States. Enough. Please approve the letter.

Marshal Bourgeois Justice Advocates
From: Kate Lenhardt
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 10D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:20:11 PM
As a resident of Alameda for 28 years and as a person of faith, I strongly support item 10D on the agenda for the January 2 Alameda City Council meeting, calling for a ceasefire in Palestine. The killing of innocent civilians in Palestine is a war crime and must stop immediately. American tax dollars should not be used to support these atrocities.

Thank you for your support.

Kate Lenhardt
3156 Fir Avenue
Alameda, CA 94501
From: Susie McKee
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda item 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 12:14:31 PM
I am emailing as an Alameda citizen, educator, and mother in support of Alameda becoming one of the many “Cease Fire” cities.

I feel it is important for our city to show support for a peaceful solution to the conflict Flickr in Gaza.

Thank you for your consideration of this issue.

Sent from my iPhone
From: Kathryn Anderson
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda item 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:47:44 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
As a resident who did all her K-12 schooling in Alameda schools, 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. As I write this message, the current total of dead residents of Gaza stands at 21,000, most of them civilians, and large numbers of women and children. Benjamin Netanyahu is resisting all calls for ceasefire and predicting months more of attack. His government threatens the entire world, as events in Gaza threaten are already spilling over into political actions in many places, with warfare being waged in Lebanon.

I believe that our community has a role to play in advocating for peace in Gaza. I am frustrated that our tax dollars, billions of them, are being sent to Israel to support this vicious attack on a civilian population. We certainly have enough problems of our own, in Alameda, California, and the USA, which could use those funds in improving our own safety, livelihoods, and democracy. I would like to see the Alameda City Council take issue with this completely irresponsible allocation of federal funds.

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.

Attacking Zionism is not attacking Judaism. Your leadership in distinguishing between the two would be a help to our community in understanding the history and present reality of the occupation of Palestine. The ongoing war in Palestine makes many of our community members less safe, including Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, and Jews.

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.

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,
Kathryn Anderson
From: Deborah Sullivan
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda Item 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:00:45 PM
To the Alameda City Council,
I may not be able to attend the city council meeting this Tuesday, January 2, 2024, so I wanted to voice my support for the Mayor's letter for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

I am writing as a member of the Jewish Community and a proud member of the organization, Jewish Voice for Peace. I am duty bound to speak out because much of what is being done to the Palestinians is being done in our names. Too long, right-wing Zionist Jewish organizations have claimed to speak for all Jews. That is simply not true. Millions of Jews, young and old, are saying not in our names and never again means never again for anyone. As our numbers swell and our voices are louder, the more desperate the actions of Israel and their American supporters.

It is truly excruciating to see what happened on October 6th. What Hamas did was heinous. But the ever growing death toll in Gaza is now at 21,000. Over half of those numbers are women and children. We must mourn all human loss and fight to stop any more. The Israeli government is clearly not acting in self defense. They are carrying out an overt mission to clear Gaza of Palestinians using United States weapons and tax dollars. It is business to speak out on a local level for many reasons, but one is that the city of Alameda is government and is funded by tax dollars.

There will be a reckoning of war crimes being committed by Israel and the United States. While I am in constant grief, I am also at peace because I will continue to do everything I can to add my voice to the call for a ceasefire.

Maybe the Mayor's letter makes some people uncomfortable. Maybe they feel isolated and alienated.

Maybe they think this is outside the purview of the local government. Maybe they have 21,000 excuses to continue to try to silence the world.

Please do not be silent.
--
Best,
Deb
www.debsullivanpottery.com
@deb.sullivan.pottery
From: Eric Barker
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Cc: Margaret Spilman
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda item 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 9:49:20 AM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
We are writing to urge you to support Mayor Ashcraft’s letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

My partner and I have lived in Alameda for the past 10 years and we feel that Mayor Ashcraft's letter well represents our feelings on this complex and controversial matter.

She has written it with a level-headedness that is unfortunately missing from much of the discussion around this topic on a Federal level. We do not believe that anyone could in good faith argue that her words express antisemitism or lack of support for our nation's allies.

She also rightfully questions whether our city council should confine itself to local issues. It is a valid question, but we believe that our community does have a role to play in advocating for peace in Gaza, especially considering the lack of Federal action on this matter. Our Congresswoman Barbara Lee has done her part in signing on to the congressional ceasefire resolution. 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.

We understand that international conflicts are complex, and our local government has 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.

Thank you for your attention on this matter and for all the hard work that you do for our city!
Sincerely,
Eric Barker and Margaret Spilman
From: Hanna Barniv
To: Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Call for Cease Fire in Gaza
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 5:29:38 PM
City Mayor and Council members,
Reference to item 10-D of January 2nd Council agenda
I understand your call for ceasefire in Gaza because the pictures from the area are heart breaking. But let me put things in context. Hamas started the war on October 7th, there was cease fire on October 6th.

They knew that following their atrocities on October 7th, Israel will have to fight back. Did they build shelters for the citizens of Gaza? Did they prepare food and water for the people of Gaza? The answer is NO. They only took care of themselves, hiding in tunnels and preparing food and water for themselves exposing the population to the horrors of war. What kind of government doesn't protect its citizens? Israel has to protect itself, Hamas is continuing to fight and sending rockets towards the center of Israel, just yesterday they sent 20 rockets aimed at Tel-Aviv. It is promising many more future attacks in the style of October 7th. Israel cannot tolerate such situation. I think that you need to call for the US government to press Hamas for ceasefire. If Hamas laid their weapons and released the hostages, there would be an immediate ceasefire. Why is it always Israel's responsibility? Israel was attacked and any country in its place would have responded the same way, for example US in Afghanistan after 9/11.

The Mayor in her letter expressed her desire that everyone in the community will feel safe and that the city will try to listen to all members of the community. Please hear our side and sign a more fair and just resolution calling for both sides to ceasefire.

Thank You,
Hanna Tagger
From: Wendy Horikoshi
To: CityCouncil-List
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Cease Fire Principled Stand
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:01:27 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
We 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, we 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.

We 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.

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

Most Sincerely,
Wendy & Peter Horikoshi
cc. Mayor Ashcraft

Please Obsesrve International Migrants Month,,
Wendy
Wendy C. Horikoshi, M.S.

Leadership Coach & Trainer

Envision & Achieve Your Goal
www.transformativeleadership.net
(510) 913-4434 cell
pronouns: she/her

“Ancestors, the good ancestors from the beginning of time to the present, the ones who’ve gone ahead, the ones who were consumed in violence not of their making, in sickness often passed on through the generations, the children who passed on too early, the ones who had the chance to love and lead full lives, in the Spirit world, they are the light(ness) we need to see and feel.

Theirs are the voices we need to hear with the ears of the heart. Theirs are the messages we should welcome with our intuition’s blessings, and they are the ones who illuminate our work within and between our respective communities.” Ines Hernandes-Avila

From: Pamela Martinez
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Cease Fire Resolution
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 2:13:02 PM
Alameda City Councilmembers,
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.

Equating 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 live on Park Ave), 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 so many children, are deeply distressing. It is clear that a lasting solution can only be achieved through diplomatic efforts and a commitment to dialogue. We have a responsibility to advocate for that,
Pamela Martinez
Park Ave resident and voter.

Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
From: Amy Bee
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] cease fire
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:41:37 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
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.

Ceasefire is a safety issue. The ongoing war in Palestine 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.

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.

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.

Sincerely,
Amy Bingamon
From: Jason Wilson
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Ceasefire Resolution Letter
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 10:06:34 AM
Hello Council Members,
Thank you, Mayor, for drafting the letter, and thank you in advance to all the council members for voting in the affirmative to adopt this letter.

Sincerely,
Jason Wilson
2001 Alameda Avenue, Apt. 1
Alameda, CA 94501
From: Cindy
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Malia Vella; Tony Daysog; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] DO NOT SUPPORT A RESOLUTION ON HAMAS-ISRAEL CEASEFIRE Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 4:28:37 PM

Hello Honorable Mayor and City Council members,
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.

As a long time resident of Alameda, and a long term Temple president I implore you to 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,
Cindy Berk
RYT 200 Yoga Instructor
Certified Project Manager
Kindness Matters
Sent from my iPad
From: Susan Lebe
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Please do not support a resolution on Hamas-Israel ceasefire Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 3:28:48 PM
Hello, I'm forwarding my email sent to Mayor and City Council for the Jan 2 meeting.

Thank you,
Susan Lebe
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Susan Lebe <[email protected]
>
Date: Sat, Dec 30, 2023 at 8:00 PM
Subject: Please do not support a resolution on Hamas-Israel ceasefire To: <[email protected]
>, <[email protected]>,
<[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> 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.

As a 39 year resident of Alameda, I ask you to 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: Deborah Sosebee
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:55:59 AM
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.

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.

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,
Deborah Sosebee, Oakland resident/Alameda shopper
Sent from my iPhone
From: Michael Sosebee
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:34:11 AM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am frustrated 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.

Hamas and is committed to the destruction of the only Jewish state and to murdering all Jews. It’s written into their charter.

I understand that Alameda City Council, like other local governments, has been deluged by activists demanding a local response to foreign affairs.

I have seen how aggressive and violent these “protesters “ can be at the Oakland and Berkeley City Council meetings.

Most of the people who have spoken in Alameda made inflammatory comments, claiming Israel is an “apartheid, colonialist state carrying out a genocide.” By placing the issue on the official agenda, Mayor Ashcraft has fanned the flames of these lies.

These resolutions and letters fan the flames of antisemitism in our area.

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.

The loss of innocent lives anywhere is painful. It horrifies me that Hamas chose to start this war and to break the existing cease fire on 10/7th, continues to hold hostages, and hides behind the civilians of Gaza.

I pray for peace for Gaza and Israel.

Sincerely,
Michael Sosebee
C: 510-967-7876
From: ROBERT GOLDBERG
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 8:27:09 AM
Dear Alameda City Council,
Please do not add to the divisiveness and the potential for more violent protests. Please support the Jewish community and condemn antisemitism and hate.

I am writing as a concerned and fearful citizen and someone who supports the Alameda community as a boat owner in the Marina Village.

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,
Robert L. Goldberg
From: Anna Merzlyak Chapin
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 9:02:19 AM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am a resident of Alameda for the past 10 years. I have children attending Maya Lin Elementary, and I love living here.

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.

This letter does not represent my views as the resident of Alameda, and I do not support it being sent.

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 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.

As an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, I have lived in a country where antisemitism is widely accepted, and where you are afraid to share your heritage for fear of who might be listening. I urge you to not take steps in making Alameda a similar place to live.

I urge you to reject the referral and reject the idea of the Council sending a letter to federal officials on this topic.

Sincerely,
Anna Chapin
Sent from my iPhone
From: Maxim Shusteff
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Malia Vella; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen; Trish Spencer Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] I oppose Item 10-D. No inflammatory resolutions or letters! Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 9:08:47 AM
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.

City councils are not elected to speak on behalf of their communities regarding US foreign policy. I understand that Alameda City Council, like other local governments, has been deluged by activists demanding a local response to foreign affairs. Such activism has no impact on US foreign policy, and its only result is to create an unsafe environment for Jewish citizens. They embolden and encourage the rising antisemitic activity we have seen all around the world, including recently in Oakland.

Most of the people who have spoken in Alameda made inflammatory comments completely divorced from reality, 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 slanderous and hateful lies.

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,
- Maxim Shusteff
From: Karen Marcus
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 8:02:46 PM
Dear Alameda City Council,
I am saddened 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.

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.

But we won’t solve international crises in the Alameda City Council. The only thing Item 10- D accomplishes is increasing division and making the environment even more hostile for Jewish people, who are already fearful of the violence and rhetoric used in local protests and against local businesses.

I urge you to reject the referral and reject the idea of the Council sending a letter to federal officials on this topic.

Sincerely,
Karen Marcus
[email protected]

From: Omri Dahan
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 11:22:25 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,
Omri
[email protected]
646-645-6674
From: Zak
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: Sunday, December 31, 2023 12:02:24 AM
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,
Rob Salzberg
Sent from my iPhone
From: Jeff Stein
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; [email protected].

Cc: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Item 10-D of the Jan 2 Council agenda: Gaza Ceasefire Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 11:11:18 AM
Dear Alameda City Council,
Thank you for having the courage to carefully consider the context of the conflict in Israel and the ramifications locally of a resolution. The easy way out would certainly be to cave to the pressure, to the false comparisons to other conflicts, and to have the same knee jerk reaction to condemn Israel as so many have. The stories and images are certainly horrific. My heart breaks for the death and suffering of so many innocent civilians in Gaza. It is hard to imagine how Israel’s current actions could lead to peace. But it is even harder to imagine Palestinians ever enjoying lasting peace while under the heel of the brutal Hamas dictatorship, whose stated mission is the destruction of the State of Israel.

Understanding history is key to finding a solution. There was a thriving Jewish State in Israel long before Islam or Palestinians even existed. Sadly, the Jews of Israel were butchered and driven from their land by many conquerors including Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans and Turks. Around 1900 Jewish refugees in Eastern Europe, who were suffering from mass rapes, kidnappings, and murders at the hands of the Cossacks, began to return to their homeland. At the time, Palestine was an inhospitable land and very sparsely populated by small groups of both Arabs and Jews. The returning Jews were incredibly industrious, draining swamps, building irrigation systems and other infrastructure, and the desert began to bloom. Many Arabs from Egypt, Yemen, and elsewhere moved to Palestine to partake in this resurgence.

In the wake of the Holocaust the UN granted the Jews in Palestine the right to self-determination.

The surrounding Arab countries, who already ruled 99% of the Middle East, immediately attacked Israel from all sides, determined to drive the Jews from the last 1%. The Arabs in Palestine sided with their Arab brothers. Miraculously the Jews survived (only to be attacked again in 1956, 1967, 1973, etc). The Arab countries expelled all their Jews (about 1 million), who were gladly accepted by Israel. To improve its chances of survival, Israel tried to expel some of the Arabs within their midst (few thousands) to the neighboring countries from which many Arabs had just recently emigrated. The Arab countries would not allow them in. Instead, they were herded into the West Bank and Gaza. The Arab leaders could have solved the Arab-Israeli conflict long ago, by simply allowing their Arab brothers to return, but it has never served their interests to do so. Allowing the conflict to fester allows the Jews to serve as the scapegoats, a common enemy, and to distract the Arab people from their brutal and corrupt dictatorships. Egypt could end the suffering in Gaza today by simply opening the border but they still refuse to allow in any Palestinians.

Lack of courageous Arab leadership has plagued the peace process. One outlier who dared make peace was Anwar Sadat, who was quickly rewarded with 1/3 of all land owned by Israel, billions in US aid, and quick assassination by anti-peace fanatics. Despite the wars and thousands of terrorist attacks, courageous Israeli leaders, including Yitzhak Rabin and Ehud Barak, have repeatedly offered what were internationally agreed to be very generous terms for a two-state solution in the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. But there was no courage on the other side, certainly not from Yasir Arafat. Most Palestinians want peace and do not support terror, but violent, fanatic factions have seized control, squelched the majority, and fostered terrorism. 18 years ago, Israel withdrew from Gaza. There was no occupation. There was a ceasefire. Aid and resources have poured into Gaza. Much of it has come from Israel in the form of electricity, water, food, fuel, technology, and jobs in Gaza and Israel (despite near constant terrorism). Instead of using the resources to build a brighter future for Gazans, Hamas has funneled them into its war machine. Hamas has broken the ceasefire many times since 2005 with unprovoked attacks culminating with the horrific massacres of October 7th. Israelis feel they have no choice left but to free Palestine from Hamas and hope that some day in the future a courageous Palestinian leader will be able to break the stranglehold of the fanatics and make peace.

Check out this funny Bill Maher monologue for a similar perspective.

Sincerely,
Jeff Stein, PE
Principal

taylor|engineers
1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 501, Alameda CA 94501 (510) 263-1547 direct, (510) 749-9135 office
(510) 749-9136 fax, (510) 220-3932 mobile

[email protected]
www.taylorengineers.com

From: Andrew Santos
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Message in support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 2:09:23 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers and Clerk,
My name is Andrew Santos. I live in Alameda, near Park and Central. I'm a member at Buena Vista United Methodist Church. I really enjoy living in Alameda, using the public beach, parks, dog parks, soccer fields and basketball courts. I will also be a new parent next year and look forward to my child growing up here. I love this community, and is part of why I am writing to you to urge you to support Mayor Ashcraft’s letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

I have hope for the future of children living in Gaza, but the recent escalation of violence has resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread suffering for innocent Palestinian civilians. Please, we need our city council to take a stand for peace and humanitarian values, like they do for this community.

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.

Sincerely,
Andrew Santos
Thank you!
From: Fred Lebe
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen; Trish Spencer; Malia Vella; City Clerk Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please Don"t Support Israel/Hamas Resolution Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 4:15:04 PM
Dear honourable Mayor and Honourable City Council,
I am asking you not to support a ceasefire resolution on behalf of Alamedans. Such action by the mayor and City Council is divisive! Israel was attacked and its citizens, including many women, and children systematically attacked, tortured, raped, and beheaded. Hamas, by its own charter is sworn to destroy Israel, and planned this most vial, brutal, and monstrous slaughter months in advance. Israel is defending itself so this doesn't happen again. A ceasefire only allows Hamas to regroup, retrain and resupply to continue its effort to attack again. The resolution proposed by the mayor plays right into Hamas' hands.

Again, please do not support this divisive ceasefire resolution. Thank you.

Fred Lebe
Alameda Resident
From: Wayel Fare
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote for a ceasefire
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:36:29 AM
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: Rebekah Novak
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; CityCouncil-List
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] re proposed ceasefire resolution
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:33:36 PM
Dear Mayor and City Council,
I was encouraged and heartened to read so many thoughtful, eloquent, and restrained letters others have already submitted explaining why the proposed letter "demanding" a ceasefire is harmful. I have tried to write my own and found it extremely difficult to exercise the restraint my fellow Jews exhibit in holding back the heartbreak and fury we are feeling, in order to dispassionately outline why and how such a letter does nothing to impact the conflict in Israel and Gaza, and serves only to stir up anti-Jewish sentiment here.

I will likely not be attending the January 2 City Council meeting. When my daughter attended preschool at the JCC in Berkeley from 2013-2016, I received occasional emails home notifying parents that there was another bomb threat this morning, the kids have been taken to the park down the street, and Berkeley Police are on-site investigating (are you aware that even prior to October 7, that's a normal experience for Jews in America?). I had hoped when we first moved to Alameda that things would be better here; I was quickly disabused of that idea (between windows smashed at Temple Israel and multiple incidents in the schools over the years). Until now, I have been largely able to shield my daughter from the anti-semitism in our community. There may be some poetry in the fact that this is the year, as she prepares to become a bat mitzvah this coming spring, that the Jewish adults in her life are no longer able to hide from her this piece of our lives. And yet the past three months have been a rude enough awakening for her that I don't have it in me to also explain to her why and how city council meetings nationwide have been devolving into hours of deranged anti-Jewish conspiracy-theory sessions; so I am sending my support from home to all those who will be showing up on Tuesday to oppose the resolution.

In addition to echoing the sentiments of others regarding the difficulty for Jews living in your community, the complexity of the conflict, and the emptiness of the proposed gesture, I also echo the request that the Council not pass any resolution weighing in on Middle Eastern conflicts or any other geopolitics. And if you do, then I ask that you also: call for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, where over 10,000 civilians have been killed this year alone; demand an end to the destruction in Yemen, where over 300,000 civilians have been killed since Ansar Allah seized control in 2014; "implore our elected leaders to contribute to a swift and sustainable resolution to the crisis" in Syria, where over half a million have been killed under Bashar Al-Assad; and continue to pass such resolutions at each monthly meeting until all conflicts worldwide have been adequately addressed.

And if you do not pass regular resolutions condemning conflicts, wars, genocides, repressive regimes, and autocrats worldwide - and if virtue-signalling neophytes don't show up every month demanding that you do - then I ask you to consider why only this conflict deserves the level of attention that demonstrators, rioters, vandals, and city councils nationwide have given it; why only this conflict, which brings with it the opportunity to rally together to publicly denounce and attack Jews?
Thank you,
Rebekah Novak
Alameda, CA
From: Vicki
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer Cc: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] re: Item 10-D of the Jan 2 Council agenda.

Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 2:24:08 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft and Council members,
I am writing to respectfully ask you to avoid the topic of the Middle East crisis at council meetings. I understand that a letter demanding a change to US foreign policy regarding the Hamas-Israel war is being proposed. I respectfully ask you to not entertain letters of this nature.

Please ask yourselves, what will taking up this topic do for ( or to) the Alameda community? Will it engender goodwill between citizens with differing viewpoints? Will it calm rising antisemitism and islamophobia? The answers are no and no.

I have seen how ugly and divisive this has been in other council meetings in nearby cities. I live in Berkeley and I applaud my civic leaders for not being bullied into adopting proposals or even discussing this issue. Maintaining the peace here at home is the job of our elected representatives and I applaud mine.

I live in Berkeley and I have family who live in Alameda. I want to feel that they are safe, and we will be safe when we come to visit, shop and do business.

Thank you for your consideration,
Vicki Sommer
From: Yigal Blum
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen Cc: City Clerk; Manager Manager
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Reference to item 10-D of January 2nd Council agenda + Attachment Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 10:02:40 PM
Attachments: PCPSR Poll 90 English press release 13 Dec 2023 Final New.pdf AWRAD Public Opinion Poll - Gaza War 2023 - Tables of Results.pdf Dear Mayor Ashcraft and City Council Members,
Rather than issuing statements on foreign affairs, please follow your charter for dealing with the welfare of the city. Calling for an immediate ceasefire (not a pause) in the Israel-Hamas war may sound like a noble cause but would instead empower Hamas and their supporters (most of the Palestinians) to regroup and resume their long-term aim to annihilate the State of Israel (please check the Hamas Charter, 1987).

There have been already 5 major ceasefire treaties with Hamas since they assumed ruling power in Gaza in 2006. During each ceasefire, Hamas has increased its armed power, and the next round of war was initiated and escalated due to their attacks. An immediate ceasefire without bounding it to a permanent peace solution based on two states for two peoples will just lead to the next round of war with a higher number of killed civilians.

I clearly understand your goodwill in proposing a call for a ceasefire in Gaza, a document that is currently crafted with its acknowledged intention to be balanced, recognizing the suffering on both sides. The document also recognizes that the origin and catalyst of current hostilities is the brutal massacre performed by Hamas on October 7
th, which violated and broke the previous ceasefire agreement. This is a remarkable and highly appreciated resolution improvement over similar resolutions adopted by some of your neighboring cities.

However, a call for a ceasefire, which is not bound to a permanent peace agreement based on two states, is just another support of the Palestinians and Hamas as their preferred political representative in pursuing their goal to wipe the State of Israel off the map, as evidenced below.

It is very humane, noble, and honorable to empathize with and feel the suffering of the Palestinian civilians. Unfortunately, many serve as human shields for Hamas’ forces. It is important to realize that Hamas’ 30-40 thousand members are all Palestinians, and the Palestinians are currently supporting Hamas’ goal to eradicate Israel more than ever. Please read the two attached Palestinian Polls, performed after October 7
th by two reputable Palestinian Survey Centers, located in Ramallah, West Bank. I summarize some of the data reported in the survey of the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research on December 13, 2023, Opinion Poll #90; https://www.pcpsr.org/en/node/963
:
· 63% of the Palestinians (in the West Bank and Gaza) support the continuation of an armed fight until ALL Palestine will be free (from the River to the Sea).
· 72% of the Palestinians support Hamas' attack on October 7th as the right move.
· 65% of the Palestinians are against Two States for Two People. · 70% of the Palestinians are for only one Palestinian State. · 78% of the Palestinians would vote today for Hamas’ Hanya as the Palestinian President, in an election against Abbas, the current Palestinian Authority President.

In conclusion, a temporary ceasefire without a sincere push toward a real peace agreement between two peoples will just be used to prepare for the next round of a much more fatal war.

Respectfully and best New Year wishes,
Dr. Yigal Blum
[email protected]
Attachments:

1. Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, Public Opinion Poll # 90; December 13, 2023.

2. Arab World for Research & Development, Public Opinion Polls: Gaza Survey 7th October, November 14, 2023.
-
ᐧ
From: Itamar Landau
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Malia Vella; Trish Spencer; Tracy Jensen; City Clerk; Manager Manager Subject: [EXTERNAL] Regarding Item 10-D of the Jan 2nd Council Agenda Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 8:34:10 PM
Hello, my name is Itamar Landau and I'm writing to express my opposition to the proposed letter being brought to the January 2nd Council meeting in item 10-D of the agenda.

While I do appreciate the attempt to include some balance, certainly as compared to statements from other local councils, nevertheless the letter comes to a one-sided conclusion by not holding Hamas accountable for more than 15 years of rocket fire on civilian targets and perhaps even more importantly its choice to fight a war from beneath the cover of its own civilian population. These are grave war crimes and must be brought to an end.

As it is, the letter is divisive and draws support from some of the most hateful voices in our community. The Council would be much better served sticking to the issues that really impact residents of Alameda, including rising hatreds including anti-Jewish, anti-Israel, anti- Palestinian, anti-Muslim and anti-Arab sentiments. Passing a divisive letter will do nothing to lower the flames of hatred.

Thank you,
Itamar Landau
From: Cyndy Lennon
To: City Clerk; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen; Trish Spencer; Malia Vella; Manager Manager Subject: [EXTERNAL] Resolution and Letter re Israel Hamas War - Item on Council Meeting Agenda 1/2/24 - Item 10D Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 5:08:50 PM

PLEASE DO NOT SUPPORT A LETTER OR A RESOLUTION ON

PALESTINIANS/HAMAS/ISRAEL
"Everyone Belongs Here"
"United Against Hate"
Aren't these Alameda's mottos? Aren't these posters plastered all over Alameda and your offices? But apparently they don't apply to the Jews of Alameda! How can you possibly support an anti-semitic, hateful letter? You are dividing us, not uniting us! I have lived in Alameda for 29 years as a proud Jew. I have felt safe here....until now. By sending a letter asking for a cease fire (which Israel has asked for many times in exchange for the hostages - who include little babies and people over 80), you are sending a message to the Jews of Alameda, and their friends, that antisemitism is condoned by you, and that we do not belong here. You are united against hate...except hatred of the Jews. The Jews vote and will most definitely remember this at the ballot box!
This is not a local issue. Write to your senators or president yourselves if you want, but do not write on behalf of the City of Alameda. You were not elected to speak on behalf of the citizens of Alameda on foreign issues. You were elected to work on local issues. Where are your priorities? How does your proposed letter fit into the key priorities listed on your website? Why aren't you focused on Alameda's increasing crime and increasing homelessness instead of foreign issues?
Why are you supporting Hamas, a terrorist group that wants all Jews dead, wants all LGBTQ people dead, wants all Christians dead? Is that what you are advocating for? This is the Mayor's personal issue. This has nothing to do with Alameda. You will make national news as an anti-semitic city that condones terrorism.

Do not support terrorists. Do not send the letter. As a citizen of Alameda, you are showing me that I can no longer belong here, and can no longer be safe here as a Jew.

Thank you.

Cynthia Lennon
Proud Jewish Citizen of Alameda
From: Maia Wiitala
To: CityCouncil-List; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Agenda Item 10-D. DAY 87 Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 11:05:34 AM
Dear Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Daysog, Councilmember Herrera- Spencer, Councilmember Jensen, and Councilmember Vella, My name is Maia Wiitala and I am a life-long resident of Alameda, with the exception of my time in college. I work in corporate sales, but am also a mindset coach and above all, a singer-songwriter. I've been so moved, saddened, and enraged by what's happened, I utilized my gifts to create this song for whoever would appreciate an anti war anthem now. Feel free to listen to "Watermelon Nights"
by yours truly. I think you'll find I'm pretty
good!
When it comes to mindset, and imagining what is possible, I think we'd all agree on several levels that change is constant, and change is good. Right now, as far as the US's role in Israel's military actions, what we're all seeing now is the status quo. But it's so important to do the correct thing, even if it feels contrary, bold, and new. Right now every citizen and resident in the country is faced with this moral issue regarding our role in the inhumane bombardment and bombing of Gaza, as well as the prolonged illegal occupation of Palestine in general.

Not only are innocent people, animals, wildlife, and the natural world in Gaza and the West Bank being traumatized, martyred, displaced, murdered, and tortured for 87 days now, but we're witnessing it here and holding all these stories and unimaginable atrocities in our heads, hearts and memories.

Humanity and the world overall will literally never be
the same. Let that sink in. This is why I'm anti war. We as a city are not powerless but our despair is impacting everything in our day to day lives here (that goes for Alameda and beyond). For months now, I've been calling elected officials on speed dial, urging them to call for a ceasefire and end U.S. aid to Israel, pleading for a permanent ceasefire as we cannot comprehend that pregnant women, doctors, and babies are being ruthlessly slaughtered. Heartbreakingly, with the exception of Barbara Lee, our calls have been met with silence. Can you see how confusing this is? Can you see how silence only adds to the harm? How much more do you think the people of Palestine should be exposed to this cruelty? Before the urge to say "But Hamas..." pops in your mind, think about what actually
deserves condemning:

Right now we're in Day 87
Per Aljazeera News the current Palestinian death toll is 22,141 Let that sink in.

According to The Jewish Voice For Peace (JVP)

IDF has killed 1 in every 100 Palestians in Gaza.
105 Journalists have been killed.

Over 85% Palestians in Gaza have been displaced from their homes.

Half of Gaza's population are starving.

How do you decide what you condemn? The playing field is obviously in no way even. We are fueling a genocidal war machine. I do not want to contribute to this at all. Do not let thought-terminating cliches like "But Hamas" pull you away from the facts that have been documented and can only be argued with by delusion.

Who benefits from pitting Jewish people and Arab people against each other anyway?
A right-wing white supremacist agenda. Arguments like "we're not connected to this, it's not a local issue" are rooted in said problematic agenda that hurts us all ultimately. White supremacy asks us to not see each other, not to recognize our connection and dependence on each other, and put up blinders. It wants us to think some humans are more worthy than other humans. It wants us to pit Jews and Arabs against each other, and let "Christianity" ultimately rule (Zionism). It also wants war. And war raises money for the elite, meanwhile disenfranchises the global majority, and the globe itself. I need you each to support the Mayor in signing onto this letter, to send a message to our country, that Alameda's soul is not for sale.

As our elected officials you have an opportunity to break the silence, raise your voices for the people who are most vulnerable--the Palestinian people--and offer hope. But also for your constituents here and now, who are asking you to feel into your heart, and think critically, and do the bold, correct thing: demand a permanent ceasefire in Palestine.

Public opinion is shifting. In a recent email from representative Cori Bush, she shared that "A majority of voters now support a ceasefire in Gaza, including 76% of Democrats, 57% of Independents, and 49% of Republicans." Voters will not forget this critical moment--we know who we can trust and who has remained silent.

Right now, in the midst of vast misinformation, it is imperative to understand and speak to the history behind Zionism and the difference between anti-Zionism and antisemitism. Here's a resource for that.

Zionism does not keep anyone safe and equating anti-Zionism with antisemitism is harmful and dangerous.

We simply do not
live in a world separated between "local" and
"international" issues. Our world is inextricably interconnected.

Supporting the Mayor's letter is a reflection of our shared values for safety and care, for everyone.

Thank you for reading, listening, thinking, feeling, and supporting the Mayor's letter.

From: Baile
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Urging you to support calls for ceasefire Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 2:49:01 PM
Dear Alameda City Councilmembers,
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.

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.

Sincerely,
Theophilos Hopestill
they/them
Thank you!
From: Marilyn Grabina Smiler
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Zoom meeting Tuesday, 1-2-24regarding mayor"s letter to Washington, DC Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:48:03 AM
Dear council members
As concerned Alameda resident ( for over 40 years !) I expect and demand that a condemnation of hamas atrocities - raping, massacres, etc. , be citied verbally and openly stated at the meeting and on the letter to Washington, DC 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 GrabinaSmiler
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Agenda Item 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:05:57 PM
From: Susie McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 12:14:59 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda Item 10-D
I am emailing as an Alameda citizen, educator, and mother in support of Alameda becoming one of the many “Cease Fire” cities.

I feel it is important for our city to show support for a peaceful solution to the conflict Flickr in Gaza.

Thank you for your consideration of this issue.

Sent from my iPhone
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: 10-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:33:19 PM
From: Jeanne Allen <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:27:37 PM
To: Malia Vella <[email protected]>; T Jensen <[email protected]>; Trish Spencer <[email protected]>; Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]>; Tony Daysog <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL]
Please vote No on the ceasefire resolution.regarding the middle east. It is not the Mayor or city council's place to involve our city in this matter. It's a federal government issue.

Thank you,
Jeanne Allen
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Agenda item A-D
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 3:42:45 PM
From: Amy Bee <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:43:31 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda item A-D
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.

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.

Sincerely,
Amy Bingamon
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Cease Fire
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 3:42:39 PM
From: robin wilson <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:43:41 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Cease Fire
Please vote Tuesday to support a cease fire in Palestine. This is a vote for Humanity. FREE PALENSTINE.

Thank you,
Robin Lynn Wilson (Robbie)
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Ceasefire vote support
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:05:36 PM
From: Gwen Harlow <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 12:29:48 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Ceasefire vote support

I urge all Alameda city council members to vote in favor of sending a letter supporting a ceasefire in Palestine.

Thank you,
Gwen Harlow
426 Taylor Ave
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Ceasefire
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:29:25 PM
From: katherine culberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 4:53:54 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Ceasefire
Councilmembers,
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.

Ceasefire is a safety issue. The ongoing war in Palestine 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.

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,
Kat Culberg
Kat Culberg
Circles for Social Change
Co-Founder, Trainer and Facilitator
CSC email: [email protected]
CSC website: https://www.circlesforsocialchange.org/
“If you've come here to help me, you're wasting your time. But if you've come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” ― Australian Aboriginal Elder Lilla Watson
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Israel/Palestine
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 6:26:02 PM
From: tmanno7 <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 5:52:03 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Israel/Palestine
I must seriously question the move by the Alameda City Council to summarily call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This is a highly complicated Issue, and creating a simplistic response would amount to nothing more than a bandwagon , politically correct approach. Nuance is the key: do NOT use a cleaver when a scalpel is called for!
Are the members of the council ready to ignore the egregiously heinous acts of October 7th? Hamas is, at its core, a terrorist organization. What it perpetrated in October reached into the core of why Israel exists, and what Jews around the world still live in fear of. Like 911, and December 7, Israelis and sympathetic people around the world were awakened to the brutality of a group wanting to wipe its enemies off of the earth.

What you CAN do, is to excoriate vicious murderers, remind people of the CAUSES of this war, and recommend that prudence by Israel should be followed. No one approves of the excessive injury to innocent Palestinians- including the VAST majority of Israelis.

Please, this is NOT a simple matter, don’t fall for a facile, feel-good solution. If it’s a difficult problem for you, good, because that’s why you were chosen to LEAD, not FOLLOW! Be sure that I, along with others, will be watching and awaiting your decision. It doesn’t take too many votes to oust a city council member.

Tony Manno
Resident, and voter
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Item 10-D, letter on ceasefire request
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 1:10:31 PM
From: Laura Thomas <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 10:29:39 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Cc: Marilyn Ashcraft <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Item 10-D, letter on ceasefire request Dear council members,
If you look back 30 years in this city, the arc of justice, as Martin Luther King described it, has bent toward including more and more of its citizens. That is something we are all proud of.

The council has recognized that securing the stability, safety and well-being of everyone has inspired it to take a stand to stop the awful debacle that was the Iraq war, declare a sanctuary city so the refugees and immigrants are less prone to arrest and harassment and even calling out Donald Trump for his crimes against our democracy.

Today, with our congress considering a billion dollar-plus package for Israel to cement a policy of eradication of an entire people displaced for 75 years while we are being told there is no money for schools, housing, healthcare, childcare -- anything that helps us -- it is really your responsibility as elected officials to stand up and say NO!
Your vote to send the letter proposed by the mayor will not cause division, pain or put the Jews in our town at risk.The instability that will ensue in our own country if we continue funding these conflicts will put ALL OF US at tremendous risk.

This letter merely demonstrates how determined we all our to stop further destruction done in our name and how much we desire to spread love and healing in our town.

I hope you will see it that way.

Respectfully,
Laura Thomas
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Please read before Jan 2 city council meeting Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 7:03:01 AM
From: raviv moore <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 12:15:44 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please read before Jan 2 city council meeting Dear Mayor and council members
Some more facts you should be aware of before the discussion in Jan 2. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/28/world/middleeast/oct-7-attacks-hamas-israel-sexual- violence.html
Thank you
Raviv Moore
From: Trish Spencer
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Support for Palestine
Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023 3:40:53 PM
From: Taleen Qirreh <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2023 3:05:46 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Palestine
Hello,
I am a long time resident of Alameda.

I grew up here, I worked within the community my whole Adult Life.

Marilyn AshCraft supported me when I went to COA and was fighting for a different cause.

This was even before she was Mayor.

Trish Spencer, also supported me.

I can't Thank You Both Enough for supporting me, and showing me my voice matters.

My place of Birth, My hometown of Palestine is being erased.

As much as I call Alameda my home,
My Real home is Ramallah, Palestine.

I am 33 Years Old. I have been witnessing these war crimes my whole life.

My Grandpa (Who witnessed the 1948 Nakba, and was displaced) Made sure we got out at the young age of 6months old, in 1991 when yet another war broke out.

He was very well respected, having grown up with many friends and family that ended up becoming Israeli Soldiers.

This is probably the only reason we are lucky enough to be alive.

I am begging you to do what you can, with calling a Ceasefire and Support to Palestine.

Stand up for injustice, Stand up for the ones that have no voice.

It could have easily been me, who was left behind to grow up in a Hell like this.

I could very much be dead.

I am here, Speaking up for the ones that can't.

We need more than a Ceasefire, but this is a start.

Please support this.

Thank You for your time.
-Taleen Ibrahim Khoury Qirreh
-Taleen Qirreh
510-542-6492

Alameda City CouncilJanuary 2, 2024

Alameda City Council
January 2, 2024