Council and Authorities Concurrent Meeting on 2023-12-19 5:00 PM Meeting Time: 12-19-23 17:00
eComments Report
Meetings Meeting
Time
Agenda
Items
Comments Support Oppose Neutral
Council and Authorities Concurrent
Meeting on 2023-12-19 5:00 PM
12-19-23
17:00
26 165 112 40 2
Sentiments for All Meetings
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
Council and Authorities Concurrent Meeting on 2023-12-19 5:00 PM 12-19-23 17:00
Agenda Name Comments Support Oppose Neutral
The City of Santa Clara is conducting City Council meetings in a hybrid manner (in-person and continues to have methods for the public to participate remotely).
•Via Zoom:
o https://santaclaraca.zoom.us/j/99706759306
Meeting ID: 997-0675-9306
o Phone 1(669) 900-6833
How to Submit Written Public Comment Before City Council Meeting:
1. Use the eComment tab located on the City Council Agenda page https://santaclara.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx). eComments are directly sent to the iLegislate application used by City Council and staff, and become part of the public record. eComment closes 15 minutes before the start of a meeting.
2. By email to [email protected] by 12 p.m. the day of the meeting.
Those emails will be forwarded to the Council and will be uploaded to the City Council Agenda as supplemental meeting material. Emails received after the 12 p.m. cutoff time up through the end of the meeting will form part of the meeting record. Please identify the Agenda Item Number in the subject line of your email. NOTE: Please note eComments and Emails received as public comment will not be read aloud during the meeting.
Agendas, Staff Reports and some associated documents for City Council items may be viewed on the Internet at
https://santaclara.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
All public records relating to an open session item on this agenda, which are not exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, that are distributed to a majority of the legislative body will be available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk at Sana Clara City Hall, 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050 at the same time that the public records are distributed or made available to the legislative body. Any draft contracts, ordinances and resolutions posted on the Internet site or distributed in advance of the Council meeting may not be the final documents approved by the City Council. For the final document, you many contact the Office of the City Clerk at (408) 615-2220 or [email protected].
1 1 0 0
2 1 1 0
1 0 1 0
1.B 23-1700 Conference with Legal Counsel-Anticipated Litigation (CC) Pursuant to Gov. Code § 54956.9(e)(5) - Exposure to litigation Number of potential cases: 1
Facts and Circumstances:
Letter dated December 13, 2023 from the Sutton Law Firm Re: Proposed Charter Amendment to Make the Chief of Police Position Appointed by the City Manager - Demand That the City Stipulate to a Judgment Amending the Ballot Question
(Letter Attached)
Public Comment
7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
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4. 23-1474 Adopt a Resolution in Support of United Against Hate in the City of Santa Clara
3 0 1 2
Agenda Name Comments Support Oppose Neutral
REPORTS OF MEMBERS, SPECIAL COMMITTEES AND
COUNCILMEMBER 030 REQUESTS
1 0 1 0
5. 23-1701 Action on a Council Written Request (Council Policy 030) Submitted by Vice Mayor Park Requesting to Place an Agenda Item at a Future Council Meeting to Consider a Resolution Addressing the Concerns Brought by Constituents at the December 12, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
156 110 35 0
Sentiments for All Agenda Items
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
Agenda Item: eComments for The City of Santa Clara is conducting City Council meetings in a hybrid manner (in-person and continues to have methods for the public to participate remotely). • Via Zoom:
o https://santaclaraca.zoom.us/j/99706759306
Meeting ID: 997-0675-9306
o Phone 1(669) 900-6833
How to Submit Written Public Comment Before City Council Meeting:
1. Use the eComment tab located on the City Council Agenda page https://santaclara.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx). eComments are directly sent to the iLegislate application used by City Council and staff, and become part of the public record. eComment closes 15 minutes before the start of a meeting.
2. By email to [email protected] by 12 p.m. the day of the meeting. Those emails will be forwarded to the Council and will be uploaded to the City Council Agenda as supplemental meeting material. Emails received after the 12 p.m. cutoff time up through the end of the meeting will form part of the meeting record. Please identify the Agenda Item Number in the subject line of your email. NOTE: Please note eComments and Emails received as public comment will not be read aloud during the meeting.
Agendas, Staff Reports and some associated documents for City Council items may be viewed on the Internet at https://santaclara.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
All public records relating to an open session item on this agenda, which are not exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, that are distributed to a majority of the legislative body will be available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk at Sana Clara City Hall, 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050 at the same time that the public records are distributed or made available to the legislative body. Any draft contracts, ordinances and resolutions posted on the Internet site or distributed in advance of the Council meeting may not be the final documents approved by the City Council. For the final document, you many contact the Office of the City Clerk at (408) 615-2220 or [email protected].
Overall Sentiment
Brian Darby
Location:
Submitted At: 7:50pm 12-17-23
I wish to thank you for your continued use of the hybrid meeting. It makes it so much easier to interact with local government.
Agenda Item: eComments for 1.B 23-1700 Conference with Legal Counsel-Anticipated Litigation (CC) Pursuant to Gov. Code § 54956.9(e)(5) - Exposure to litigation Number of potential cases: 1
Facts and Circumstances:
Letter dated December 13, 2023 from the Sutton Law Firm Re: Proposed Charter Amendment to Make the Chief of Police Position Appointed by the City Manager - Demand That the City Stipulate to a Judgment Amending the Ballot Question (Letter Attached)
Overall Sentiment
Buchser Alum
Location:
Submitted At: 8:17am 12-18-23
I find it interesting that the ones who brought this litigation to the city were those who were appointed by Mayor Gillmor and Kathy Watanabe for the charter review. It seems that these two love nothing more than to cost the city more and more money that the city doesn't have and work hours that city staff cannot accommodate This is nothing more than a frivolous attempt to usurp the language in order to protect their close ally - the chief of police.
Brian Darby
Location:
Submitted At: 7:40pm 12-17-23
This has unfortunately become a rather contentious issue, like so many surrounding the Stadium. The push to change how the Chief of Police and City Manager are chosen, in my observation, has been in part pushed by political groups supported by 49er interests. It is just the right thing to do to have this Proposed Charter Amendment written as clearly and concisely as possible. I support amending the Proposed Charter Amendment to make it very clear as directed in the letter.
Agenda Item: eComments for Public Comment
Overall Sentiment
Howard Solovei
Location:
Submitted At: 2:00pm 12-19-23
Agenda Item 5
I urge the city council NOT to adopt a resolution in support of a Gaza ceasefire because:
* Any resolution amounts to picking sides and will create further division * The resolution does not directly affect the city or its governance * The council has no foreign relations expertise
* The number of foreign causes are endless
* Other cities such as San Jose Council Policy 0-11 already forbid such resolutions * The US has repeatedly rejected such a resolution at the UN Agenda Item: eComments for 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING Overall Sentiment
Howard Solovei
Location:
Submitted At: 1:36pm 12-19-23
Agenda Item 4 - United Against Hate Resolution
The resolution includes the words "anti-Palestinian" among the groups it wants to highlight. This language is divisive and should either be stricken or balanced with similar language against "anti-Israeli" or "anti-Zionist" hatred.
Agenda Item: eComments for 4. 23-1474 Adopt a Resolution in Support of United Against Hate in the City of Santa Clara Overall Sentiment
Dorit kerem
Location:
Submitted At: 3:34pm 12-19-23
I would like the text be amended to NOT specify minorities the resolution is drafted for, as it is not including many other minorities that live, study and work in the city of Santa Clara - Israelis, Armenians, Russians , Ukrainians to name but a few in order to keep it truly inclusive as it was meant to be. it's very divisive now. If you insist on specifying then please add 'anti-israeli' so it's not biased with 'anti palestinian'. thanks.
Ido Josef
Location:
Submitted At: 1:47pm 12-19-23
Please add "anti-Israeli" hate to your resolution and don't keep it biased with "anti-Palestinian" Mia Shani
Location:
Submitted At: 11:56am 12-19-23
Y our wording is the complete opposite of this resolution purpose.
It is antisemitic rhetoric; the simple and obvious facts are: Hamas, ISIS, Iran, and very sadly the Muslim population in this meeting - is PERPETRATING the hatred and hostility! The so called "United against Hate" is actually HATEFUL towards a whole population of Jews, Zionist, and Israeli people.
At least change wording to:
...standing against anti-Palestinian, Islamophobic, Antisemitic, Anti-Zionist, Anti-Israeli...attacks...
Agenda Item: eComments for REPORTS OF MEMBERS, SPECIAL COMMITTEES AND COUNCILMEMBER 030 REQUESTS Overall Sentiment
Marla Sofer
Location:
Submitted At: 2:39pm 12-19-23
This issue creates division in our community and is based on a biased and incomplete information. City council is not elected based on its foreign policy perspectives. Inclusion begins with understanding bias. Keep Santa Clara's city council decisions local.
Agenda Item: eComments for 5. 23-1701 Action on a Council Written Request (Council Policy 030) Submitted by Vice Mayor Park Requesting to Place an Agenda Item at a Future Council Meeting to Consider a Resolution Addressing the Concerns Brought by Constituents at the December 12, 2023 Regular Council Meeting Overall Sentiment
Rami Darghous
Location:
Submitted At: 4:44pm 12-19-23
Humanitarian aid!!
Margaret Okuzumi
Location:
Submitted At: 4:42pm 12-19-23
Santa Clarans are culpable for the misuse of our tax dollars and weapons made by defense contractors headquartered here in California and locally. Not only is the sheer carnage immoral, the cycle of violence makes us all more unsafe. Local Palestinians have lost multiple family members in the hostilities and many more will die if we don't apply pressure to stop this genocide. Christmas has been cancelled in Palestine. see https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/3aec6090-6d2f-4620-aeec-01a898c0675c Abdulaziz Idris
Location:
Submitted At: 4:42pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire now!
Sasha Totah
Location:
Submitted At: 4:42pm 12-19-23
The genocide in Gaza affects our local community as many of us have lost family members and our tax dollars are used for this. We urge our local government to raise our voices to the highest levels of the US government to condem the genocide and stop funding the Israeli military. (Also stop making it about antisemitism. It’s not about YOU! It’s a humanitarian crisis.)
Humayun Sohel
Location:
Submitted At: 4:42pm 12-19-23
Urge the city council to have this resolution to stop this insane massacre. Let’s send a clear message that the cease fire is needed NOW
Crystal García
Location:
Submitted At: 4:41pm 12-19-23
Please vote yes on a resolution to call for an immediate cease fire to the US backed genocide in Gaza by the Israeli Government. Let’s not repeat history a second time.
Ismar Kadric
Location:
Submitted At: 4:41pm 12-19-23
I support an immediate PERMANENT ceasefire. Free Palestine.
Tamar Paz
Location:
Submitted At: 4:41pm 12-19-23
I strongly oppose City of Santa Clara signing resolution on the conflict in the middle-east.
We need to focus how to help our community members to feel safe.
All the hostages need to be released, Hamas must be eliminated so that innocent people on both sides won’t die anymore.
Please keep our community safe
Razan Breiwish
Location:
Submitted At: 4:41pm 12-19-23
This issue should not be this controversial. It is DEEPL Y troubling that it is. Children are dying as we speak -- whatever words that are used to justify children dying are words that do not belong in Santa Clara. Santa Clara City Council should immediately adopt a resolution to call for peace and stopping the violence in Palestine. That resolution should include at a minimum; Stop the killing of innocent civilians; Allow humanitarian aid into Gaza; Return hostages on both sides
Abby Hafez
Location:
Submitted At: 4:40pm 12-19-23
This crisis has deeply impacted our local community with the loss of many family members. I urge U.S. government bodies to address this humanitarian crisis promptly. Please include in the resolution:
Immediate end to the killing
Allowance of humanitarian aid
Release of all hostages
Y our swift action is appreciated
AJ Khan
Location:
Submitted At: 4:39pm 12-19-23
Support a ceasefire resolution to end the genocide and inhumanity that is taking place in Gaza. Every hour hundreds of innocent defenseless children, women and men are being murdered. Remember that genocide, ethnic cleansing is never okay, and once permitted for all to see how can anyone turn a blind eye and pretend that nothing is happening, that this is a war - war is between two armed groups, not any army vs a civilian population.- Our tax dollars say no to genocide and ethnic cleansing! Mohammed Essa
Location:
Submitted At: 4:37pm 12-19-23
I support an immediate and permanent ceasefire
Asir Sikdar
Location:
Submitted At: 4:37pm 12-19-23
Please call for a ceasefire now. Local government is the most direct way for us to voice our opinions. Our state and federal representatives are failing to represent us, so we are relying on you. Our tax dollars should not be used to pay for genocide.
Please be a model for other local communities and call for a ceasefire. Please stand against genocide, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing.
Ahmad M
Location:
Submitted At: 4:37pm 12-19-23
I personally know local community members, friends and coworkers, who have lost family members in Gaza. The US government needs to realize that many of its citizens are against genocide by Israel, and needs to wake up to hold Israel and itself accountable with a 180 degree shift in policy to support the victims in Palestine. We've seen enough and need to allow humanitarian aid and demand a permanent ceasefire. This has been a gross misappropriation of our tax dollars.
Mohamed Morsy
Location:
Submitted At: 4:34pm 12-19-23
I support & hope for reaching a cease fire resolution, extending war never worked well for anyone in history. It also extends to our city since we are a very diverse city, so a ceasefire would make everyone feel safe here too Jane Faershtein
Location:
Submitted At: 4:34pm 12-19-23
I strongly oppose City of Santa Clara signing resolution on the Arab- Israeli conflict. We were always proud of our diverse community, so let’s continue to keep it safe and not start a bloodshed on our streets and in our schools.
Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas and other terror organizations. The “cease fire” should be addressed to Hamas by the people of Gaza.
Ro Ka
Location:
Submitted At: 4:33pm 12-19-23
Please focus your time and effort on things that matter to the City of Santa Clara and not international issues you can't impact. Y ou are wasting our tax money discussing this instead of solving our housing, employment, roads and taxes issues that are far greater and meaningful to our day to day lives. Y ou are diving the community, and not helping to lower the flames. We all have to live here together even after the Hamas-Israel issue is solved.
Abdallah Amg
Location:
Submitted At: 4:28pm 12-19-23
Stop killing innocent civilization using our tax money.
Rafiq S.
Location:
Submitted At: 4:25pm 12-19-23
I urge you to vote YES on adding a resolution to call for peace and stopping the violence in Palestine. That resolution should include at a minimum:
- Stop the killing of innocent civilians
- Allow humanitarian aid into Gaza
- Return hostages on both sides
Ihsan Imam
Location:
Submitted At: 4:25pm 12-19-23
Genocide is never justified. Our tax dollars fund the genocide occurring right now in Gaza, and it is our personal duty as a community to do something about it. The council needs to pass a resolution calling for unrestricted humanitarian aid, the release of all hostages on both sides, and a permanent ceasefire! Siema Zia
Location:
Submitted At: 4:23pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire now
Faten Hijazi
Location:
Submitted At: 4:23pm 12-19-23
I strongly support adding this item on the agenda. Please do what you can to prevent further loss of life - ceasefire, release of innocent hostages/detainees, and facilitating humanitarian aid. Break the silence and do something. Never again means never again for everyone.
Suleyman Saib
Location:
Submitted At: 4:22pm 12-19-23
Our Santa Clara is impacted by the great losses of family and loved ones, and this should be discussed. Add items to the resolution calling for the end of killing on both sides, freedom for the hostages and opening the flow of humanitarian aid through Gazan borders.
kausar fatima
Location:
Submitted At: 4:16pm 12-19-23
Many local community members have lost family members due to the attacks on Gaza. The US government needs to take action and end the atrocities taking place.
Concerned Santa Claran
Location:
Submitted At: 4:10pm 12-19-23
No to discussing a ceasefire in the Middle East.
We can offer support to the community and denounce hate without interfering in international politics and further divide our community.
Joann Totah
Location:
Submitted At: 4:08pm 12-19-23
How many more of our family members need to die before you see this as the largest humanitarian crisis? Let us be proud of our community for standing on the right side of history. Please add: allowing humanitarian aide in, release of *all* hostages, and an end to the killing.
Maia Elder- Kadar
Location:
Submitted At: 4:08pm 12-19-23
The resolution as is, is incomplete - you denounce anti-Palestinian hate but you do not denounce or mention anti- Israeli hate.
It is in everyone’s interest that the elected council members and city’s mayor would promote a more balanced approach and do not wish to be deemed as supporting this kind of hate .
Please do not vote for this resolution and continue to focus on local issues that benefit and connect all your tax paying residents.
Naeem Munir
Location:
Submitted At: 4:07pm 12-19-23
Why are our hard earned tax dollars being used in funding a genocide! I support a cease fire and reevaluating our relationship with foreign militaries.
Yeab Kebede
Location:
Submitted At: 4:06pm 12-19-23
In full support of a ceasefire NOW!
Miki Esplin
Location:
Submitted At: 4:05pm 12-19-23
I oppose the resolution, we need to keep our city safe and not engage in taking sides in a complex international conflict as horrible as it is. I’m imploring you to stay focused on bringing unity and community in our city and not add to tensions and violence,
Warmly
Miki
Mubeen Ahmad
Location:
Submitted At: 4:02pm 12-19-23
Wholeheartedly support a ceasefire now in the name of humanity Ahmed KF
Location:
Submitted At: 4:00pm 12-19-23
Family members of Santa Clara residents are impacted. Please call for a ceasefire.
Santi Chrisanti
Location:
Submitted At: 4:00pm 12-19-23
Please stop the killing of civilians.
Sadi Dh
Location:
Submitted At: 3:59pm 12-19-23
Fully support this resolution. Ceasefire now
Khaled Elwazeer
Location:
Submitted At: 3:50pm 12-19-23
I urge you to vote YES on adding a resolution to call for peace and stopping the violence in Palestine. That resolution should include at a minimum:
- Stop the killing of innocent civilians
- Allow humanitarian aid into Gaza
- Return hostages on both sides
Nisreen Zeidan
Location:
Submitted At: 3:50pm 12-19-23
I fully support because this war has affected our local community who lost many family members. Please add to the resolution to stop killing in both sides, release all hostages and allow humanitarian aids to enter.
Erin N.
Location:
Submitted At: 3:49pm 12-19-23
I strongly support a ceasefire resolution--over 20,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel with the backing of the U.S.. Demanding a permanent ceasefire will add to the growing pressure on the state and federal governments to stop funding genocide, and it will show our support for Santa Clara's Palestinian and Muslim residents, who are facing increased racism and Islamophobia.
Am Kah
Location:
Submitted At: 3:48pm 12-19-23
I strongly support adding the study agenda and discussing it. The world is watching as massacres are happening and it needs to stop.
Ismail Breiwish
Location:
Submitted At: 3:48pm 12-19-23
I wholeheartedly support the measure to agendize this item for a future council meeting. The endless killing, destruction and prevention of basic human needs to enter Gaza has got to stop. Please see it in your heart to support this measure.
Vered Rachman
Location:
Submitted At: 3:48pm 12-19-23
Why are we only taking a stand in foreign affairs that have to do with Israel? Using buzzwords like "genocide" and "apartheid" is antisemitic propaganda and any city jurisdiction has no right to demand a ceasefire and tell a country how to handle terror attacks on its own civilians.
Khaled Saad
Location:
Submitted At: 3:44pm 12-19-23
How many civilians must be killed before we take an action? Dorit kerem
Location:
Submitted At: 3:42pm 12-19-23
I oppose to consider a resolution for cease fire. This is out of context. Hamas is still holding over 150 hostages.
Israel allows supplies to go to Gaza, Hamas doesn't let this go to the innocent citizens, but keeps using the supplies for missiles and fight.
Hamas broke the agreement on hostage release so Israel had to open fire again.
Cease fire may sound like 'peace' but without acknowledging the horrific attack, rapes, murders on 10/7, and the kidnapped citizens we can't consider this.
Karolina Lewandowska
Location:
Submitted At: 3:42pm 12-19-23
I strongly support the resolution to call for ceasefire immediately, allowing humanitarian aid and release of all hostages. It's essential to advocate for peace and address the humanitarian crisis affecting many lives. Raising your voice in solidarity with those impacted can contribute to creating awareness and fostering positive change.
Worried Resident
Location:
Submitted At: 3:41pm 12-19-23
Discussing this topic brings the Middle East tension into our city.
There is zero impact on US international policies and only a concern for our own safety.
I will keep the entire council accountable for any escalation and public safety events that will unfold due to the continuous discussion of Middle East topics during council meetings.
Stop it before it becomes too late.
Sana Syed
Location:
Submitted At: 3:40pm 12-19-23
I support a ceasefire! Not supporting is allowing the killing of all of mankind. Israel has proved beyond a doubt that it is choosing to kill regardless of who is in front of them. The recent killings of the 3 Israeli civilians proves this. Ceasefire Now!
Kareem Darghous
Location:
Submitted At: 3:39pm 12-19-23
I am in strong support of a ceasefire resolution. The US should take a firm stance on not supporting a war that is bound to cause instability, much further loss of lives, a crisis in which many people will have to seek refuge, and will lead to more oppression in areas such as the West Bank as well as Masha Merkulova
Location:
Submitted At: 3:37pm 12-19-23
I wasn't aware that City of Santa Clara has a foreign policy. That's great to know. Will you now be working on other international issues? Could you also please have a resolution re Azerbaijan and Nagorny Karabakh? Let's not forget the persecution and extermination of Muslims in China. Can you also vote on the Syrian Government killing half a million of their own people?
No? Why not?
Because Jews are not involved?
END JEW HATRED in Santa Clara.
Tend to local issues.
Lo So
Location:
Submitted At: 3:35pm 12-19-23
As a person of consciousness, I fully support the Council calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.
The occupation must end! Humanitarian aid must be allowed to enter the area as soon as possible.
Tanweer Syed
Location:
Submitted At: 3:35pm 12-19-23
Most of the propaganda that the US is bringing to our attention is unverified or untrue. LA Times apologized for the rape claims that it made without verification. Human Rights Watch/Doctors Without Borders/UNICEF are all providing proof about the Genocide so let's stand on the right side of humanity today and call for a ceasefire now! Omar Gamel
Location:
Submitted At: 3:33pm 12-19-23
Add your voice to the 153 Nations and countless cities, organizations and people calling for a permanent ceasefire.
Galit Perez
Location:
Submitted At: 3:30pm 12-19-23
I opposed the ceasefire resolution, emphasizing that Santa Clara City should exclusively address local matters, as explicitly outlined on the website, rather than delving into international affairs. Local resolutions lack impact in this context and only serve to exacerbate hate, fear, and division within both the Muslim and Jewish communities.
Ayesha Syed
Location:
Submitted At: 3:29pm 12-19-23
The media will continue to distract with propaganda such as "Do you condemn Hamas?" but it is important to remember that this event did not start on 10/7. Palestine was a place of peace with people of all religions, and then the Nakba happened, the continued forced displacement of Palestinians. So many children and families have been kidnapped and killed as a result of these past events. 10/7 is only a distraction to continue to keep the Palestinians silent until they are completely annihilated.
Omar Azzam
Location:
Submitted At: 3:26pm 12-19-23
I support putting it on the agenda. It is a topic affecting many personally.
H Ali
Location:
Submitted At: 3:22pm 12-19-23
I strongly support for a ceasefire resolution to end this war and the suffering of innocent people.
Olga Eidelman
Location:
Submitted At: 3:22pm 12-19-23
Please focus on the city! The resolution is one sided and will fuel hate and antisemitism. Last council meeting lasted 6 hours; most of the time was spent on comments discussing foreign policy some of which misinformed public by offering inaccurate and deceiving information. Vice Mayor Park- Santa Clara has enough issues! Why are you bringing back a discussion of a resolution that has nothing to do with the city? Please keep our city united and stop dealing with international politics.
Michelle Goldstein
Location:
Submitted At: 3:18pm 12-19-23
As SC leaders, you cannot possibly impact the Israel/Hamas war but debating a ceasefire will sow hatred and division locally. Most of us are hurting for the innocent victims on both sides of this war and would like nothing more than to see permanent peace in the Middle East but this resolution will only cause more antisemitism here at home. Please continue to focus on local priorities and promote opportunities to bring our diverse population together and heal the rift this issue has caused.
Ahmed Hamdy
Location:
Submitted At: 3:15pm 12-19-23
Strongly support.
We need to bring forth to the resolution the end of killing on both sides, to allow humanitarian aide to reach areas of dire need, and the immediate and permanent ceasefire. We need an end to this unfortunately large humanitarian crisis. It is a matter that has affected our friends and family members as residents of this city as many have lost their loved ones. It is a prohumanity call that will bring us even more together and want our voices and grief to reach the Govt.
Donna Mansour
Location:
Submitted At: 3:14pm 12-19-23
I fully support adding a ceasefire resolution to the agenda. This is not a one sided resolution - how can it be when it's focused on stopping the killing on both sides? Silence is not acceptable. Standing for a ceasefire is not anti- Semitic nor divisive. It is the only way to bring true and lasting peace - at least the first step for our family abroad but also here in Santa Clara. It is also acknowledging the pain that these events have had on many people in our city.
May Dean
Location:
Submitted At: 3:14pm 12-19-23
I support a resolution for a ceasefire pertaining to Gaza. A ceasefire is pro-humanity and pro-children. There is nothing divisive about it. A ceasefire calls for peace, rather than killing. It is our moral and civic duty to stand up to injustice everywhere, and opposing a ceasefire means we have failed our moral obligation as citizen of the world.
Mehmood Rah
Location:
Submitted At: 3:12pm 12-19-23
Stop the genocide. I support the resolution to call for a ceasefire immediately.
Satchel Forrester
Location:
Submitted At: 3:12pm 12-19-23
This is not a divisive issue - it is an issue of saving human life. It concerns constituents here in terms of how our tax dollars are used, because many of us have family and friends suffering as a result of this conflict, and because what is happening is a moral burden on anyone with a heart. Please endorse a lasting ceasefire now.
Mostafa Attia
Location:
Submitted At: 3:11pm 12-19-23
With increased Islamophobia in the Santa Clara constituency, it’s imperative that our elected officials approve a ceasefire resolution. Silence or opposing the resolution will only exacerbate Islamophobia. Please support a call for ceasefire immediately.
Ben Spielberg
Location:
Submitted At: 3:11pm 12-19-23
My grandmother escaped Nazi Germany in 1939. I believe the lesson of Jewish history is that we have a responsibility to speak out when atrocities are being committed and do what we can to prevent them. While I know city government has no direct ability to stop the state of Israel from continuing to kill tens of thousands of people and starve and displace millions, a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza may help pressure federal elected officials who have the power to save lives.
Concerned Resident
Location:
Submitted At: 3:08pm 12-19-23
Please don’t support a biased, one sided resolution that has nothing to do with Santa Clara and everything to do with hate towards Jews and Jewish state. Thank you.
Mal Ol
Location:
Submitted At: 3:08pm 12-19-23
With increased Islamophobia in the Santa Clara constituency, it’s imperative that our elected officials approve a ceasefire resolution. Silence or opposing the resolution will only exacerbate Islamophobia. Also, our federal government is sending our tax dollars to fund this genocide, approving this resolution will tell our federal government that the Santa Clara constituency says: ceasefire now and we don’t want our taxes funding murdering children. This resolution is the least we can do.
Ahmed Ali
Location:
Submitted At: 3:07pm 12-19-23
This is an urgent humanitarian issue that affects humans above all and it's time the city council stand up and reflect the city's residents position and call for an immediate ceasefire heema azim
Location:
Submitted At: 3:06pm 12-19-23
Please support a call for ceasefire immediately. Hundreds of innocent Palestinian civilians are being killed each day, the lives of Israeli hostages are constantly at risk (3 hostages waiving a white flag were killed this week).
Calling for an end to killing innocent people, and allowing humanitarian aid for those displaced, should not be controversial at all.
Stand on the right side of history, stand against apartheid, stand against terrorism, stand against ethnic cleansing. Ceasefire now.
Michael S
Location:
Submitted At: 3:06pm 12-19-23
I was born and raised in Santa Clara and presently reside in the greater Bay Area. I urge you to vote yes on this resolution. I can no longer remain silent on the direct contribution of our tax dollars towards a genocide. It is immoral, unconsciousable, and just plain wrong. If willing, also extend the resolution to include a deman to significantly increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. I have always been proud to be associated with Santa Clara so please vote yes. Do the right thing.
Michal Raviv Sayag
Location:
Submitted At: 3:04pm 12-19-23
This resolution is one sided, propaganda driven, and ignores the loss of life caused by gruesome terror acts of October 7. Releasing such an imbalanced resolution encourages anti-Semitism and puts out Jewish community in danger
Khizar Khan
Location:
Submitted At: 3:03pm 12-19-23
What's happening in Palestine isn't just a foreign affair we can ignore. It is a genocide supporter by OUR TAX MONEY . Hundreds of millions of dollars are sent to israel by the US along with military support. This AFFECTS US ALL!
Zuhayeer Musa
Location:
Submitted At: 3:03pm 12-19-23
I support the hearing for this resolution
Olga Strongin
Location:
Submitted At: 3:01pm 12-19-23
City council should focus on local issues, and not get involved in foreign policy.
This resolution will result in divisiveness and can result in violence in our beautiful and diverse community.
SHOEB SHAIKH
Location:
Submitted At: 3:01pm 12-19-23
I support taking a stand against hate, oppression, and ethnic cleansing locally or globally. Being neutral or opposing a call for peace for a region that has seen over 19400 deaths, most of them who are innocent civilian women and kids, 1.9 million displaced without food, water, and healthcare is being complicit towards the biggest humanitarian crisis of our generation. Our local is grieving, at a min this resolution is needed to send a clear message of solidarity for peace.
Nimah Haq
Location:
Submitted At: 3:00pm 12-19-23
I urge the council to adopt a ceasefire resolution immediately! This is an urgent humanitarian issue and the council needs to speak up. Be on the right side of history.
Be Fe
Location:
Submitted At: 2:59pm 12-19-23
A complex geopolitical situation like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not a relevant item for the Santa Clara City Council to weigh in on. Discussing this topic during the city's meetings enables inaccurate information and outright lies to be spread, creating unhelpful tension between residents. Jewish residents are already at risk due to a 300% increase in hate crimes against Jewish Americans. SC should serve as a role model for other cities and leave this topic to the relevant authorities.
Shani Fr
Location:
Submitted At: 2:59pm 12-19-23
I would love nothing more than to have peace, but a ceasefire is not peace. A ceasefire is simply more time for Hamas to arm, plan and execute another massacre of innocent Jewish civilians. If you care about Santa Clara residents we need to stop calling for divisive resolutions that only hurt and alienate certain residents of our city.
And if you care about innocent civilians we need to broker real peace not a temporary ceasefire that Hamas has already promised to break.
Omar Shorab
Location:
Submitted At: 2:58pm 12-19-23
Please support a ceasefire resolution. Everyday we don't take action is another day innocent lives in Gaza are taken. There is a massive sense of urgency that must inspire action. Please add to the resolution:
-End to the killing on both sides
-Allow humanitarian aide
-Release of all hostages”
Hamza Bari
Location:
Submitted At: 2:57pm 12-19-23
This has affected the local community with many lost family members, and we need to urge US gov bodies to echo our grief and voices to the Govt. to end the biggest humanitarian crisis of our lives! Please add to the resolution:
-End to the killing on both sides
-Allow humanitarian aide
-Release of all hostages”
-Immediate ceasefire
Yahia Ramadan
Location:
Submitted At: 2:57pm 12-19-23
I support the ceasefire resolution to stop the killing and allow for aid to reach people Web Man
Location:
Submitted At: 2:55pm 12-19-23
The beauty of Santa Clara is in its coexistence and diversity. The beauty for its immigrant residents is that they can live here in peace as neighbors vs. their origin.
Any action in line of the above you take today or in the future - even if meant to support human values, will impact your promise to your residents, increase divisiveness and safety for all, while practically contributing nothing to resolving the current conflict.
Focus on matter related to SC, wihtin your jurisdiction.
Omar Razzack
Location:
Submitted At: 2:55pm 12-19-23
There’s a genocide taking place. This is the least one can do. It’s not complicated. Open your eyes.
Revital Meron
Location:
Submitted At: 2:55pm 12-19-23
Dear Mayor, Vice Mayor and council members - as a concerned resident I urge you to NOT bring any resolution addressing foreign affairs. Please keep your oath as local elected public officials to address local policies and unify the Santa Clara community, not divide and discriminate against parts of your own constitutes .
Amr Mahdi
Location:
Submitted At: 2:52pm 12-19-23
Dear Council Members,
I urge action on the Gaza crisis: over 20,000 civilians, mostly children and women, are dead; a million displaced.
Immediate needs: ceasefire, release of hostages, and humanitarian aid. Advocate for balanced U.S. foreign policy. Y our support is crucial for peace and human rights.
Sara Ibrahim
Location:
Submitted At: 2:49pm 12-19-23
I support a ceasefire resolution because I care about humanity. We must act now to stop the genocide in Gaza.
The Palestinian people are starving, no food, water, or fuel is allowed to enter Gaza. Additionally, the apartheid state of Isreal is indiscriminately bombing civilians. Half of the killed are children. This is unacceptable in 2023.
We must act now to stop the genocide. A ceasefire will save lives on both sides.I urge the council to add a ceasefire resolution.
Donna Wallach
Location:
Submitted At: 2:49pm 12-19-23
Please vote yes!!! The situation in Palestine is more than dire! There must be an immediate & permanent ceasefire now! Also, there must be an immediate & permanent end to the collective punishment siege on the Palestinians in Gaza. Also, there must be the release of all hostages & detainees. Israel has arbitrarily arrested more than 7,000 Palestinians since 7th Oct, including Palestinians in Gaza seeking refuge in Gaza. Also, no more USA aid to Israel, no more of our tax money & no more weapons! Tali Klima
Location:
Submitted At: 2:47pm 12-19-23
This resolution only adds fuel to the fire at a time that tensions are already high and will make Jewish residents feel less safe. Please stick to issues within your local mandate, like public safety. Thank you! Dina AS
Location:
Submitted At: 2:47pm 12-19-23
We must everything we can to raise awareness that killing civilians is wrong. Over 10,000 children have lost their lives since Oct 7th, and the decades long cycle of violence against the Palestinian people must be stopped. That would be 750,000 American children when adjusted for US population numbers.
A permanent ceasefire is the bare minimum that we must call for. We are all witnessing a genocide in real time.
Let’s all unite for a better world for all of us and for humanity for all people! Sara MA
Location:
Submitted At: 2:46pm 12-19-23
I support this resolution for an immediate permanent ceasefire.
Aysha Abraibesh
Location:
Submitted At: 2:46pm 12-19-23
I demand the city council pass an immediate and permanent ceasefire resolution. In two months our tax $ funded the killing of one in every 100 children in Gaza, killed 1% of Gaza's entire population, orphaned 25,000+ children, amputated 1,000+ children, and starved and displaced 90% of the entire population. This is ethnic cleansing and collective punishment by definition. This is the most dangerous time for children, journalists, healthcare workers, and UN officials in history.
Samer Barakat
Location:
Submitted At: 2:43pm 12-19-23
Our tax money and technology is contributing to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians. We are responsible for making a statement against Israeli apartheid and war crimes even if non binding. We should immediately call for a ceasefire and further should stop all support to the occupation terrorist apartheid Israel. From the river to the sea Palestine will be free for every race and religion with equal rights as it used to be before 1948. Stand with Palestinians against the Israeli barbarism
layan Salous
Location:
Submitted At: 2:42pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire now. Thousands of innocent Palestinians have been killed. They need aid because they are starving to death. Israel has committed too many war crimes. Enough is enough. I refuse to let my tax dollars support killing innocent lives.
Nadine Mansour
Location:
Submitted At: 2:42pm 12-19-23
I fully support a ceasefire resolution be added to the agenda -- standing up for humanity and for the preservation of human life and the end to the senseless killing of children has never been controversial. This is a local issue because families are losing their loved ones each day and their taxpayer money contributes to the killing of their own family members. Let's stand with humanity.
Ayya Elzarka
Location:
Submitted At: 2:37pm 12-19-23
Join the entire rest of the world in standing up for humanity. Ceasing fire means ceasing the killing of children.
Please stop the bloodshed.
Michael Sanford
Location:
Submitted At: 2:37pm 12-19-23
I support a ceasefire resolution to be added to the agenda.
There is an unprecedented rate of civilian infrastructure destruction in recent history. There is an unprecedented rate civilian and journalists deaths in recent history. This conflict has significantly impacted many of our friends and families here. If this level of death and destruction is not wrong, then nothing is wrong.
A ceasefire resolution is simply pro-humanity.
Yar De
Location:
Submitted At: 2:36pm 12-19-23
The city of Santa Clara should focus on Santa Clara business! This will have zero influence on international affairs, and should stay out of this debate where it doesn't belong. It only furthers the division and hate, and the rise of antisemitism, so let's focus on what you were elected for - which is bettering Santa Clara.
Daniah Din
Location:
Submitted At: 2:34pm 12-19-23
Please support a call for a ceasefire. Standing for peace should not be controversial. Santa Clara’s always been a warm and welcoming city, please vote yes to a ceasefire to uphold the great values of this city.
Isabel Villapondo
Location:
Submitted At: 2:33pm 12-19-23
A must
Hannan Om
Location:
Submitted At: 2:31pm 12-19-23
Hundreds are getting killed as you read this, please amplify our voices. Please be a part of stopping the bloodshed. Please place an agenda for peace.
Emad Ahmed
Location:
Submitted At: 2:27pm 12-19-23
There needs to adopt a resolution supporting a ceasefire. Around 20k people have been murdered, many of them children. I have friends in the Bay have lost dozens of family members. We must show our support to end the killing, allow humanitarian aid, and the release of ALL hostages. This is only possible with a ceasefire Helena Forrest
Location:
Submitted At: 2:25pm 12-19-23
Y es on a ceasefire. The Palestinian people deserve our support, especially since our tax dollars and state/federal governments are complicit in helping Israel carry out their genocidal agenda.
Also - a ceasefire means an end to violence and hostage exchange from both Palestine and Israel. This will make it safer for everyone's loved ones.
Imad Elayle
Location:
Submitted At: 2:25pm 12-19-23
"this has affected the local community with many lost family members, and we need to urge US gov bodies to echo our grief and voices to the Govt. to end the biggest humanitarian crisis of our lives! Please add to the resolution:
-End to the killing on both sides
-Allow humanitarian aide
-Release of all hostages”
Itai Hakim
Location:
Submitted At: 2:18pm 12-19-23
As a resident of Santa Clara, and a native of Israel, I can say that I am both ashamed and alarmed by the comments I am seeing from residents supporting this agenda item. Ashamed of the hateful nature of the comments, hate that is based on misinformation. Alarmed because I, as an Israeli, simply don't feel comfortable knowing that these elements exist where I want to raise my kids. The City Council should focus their efforts on making EVERYONE feel safe in our city, regardless of background.
Hillal Jarrar
Location:
Submitted At: 2:16pm 12-19-23
Let our community unite in condemning violence and genocide against any and all people. “Never again” must be a core of our community so that we can create a brighter and safer future.
Ashley Swank
Location:
Submitted At: 2:14pm 12-19-23
Santa Clara needs to adopt a resolution supporting a ceasefire. Around 20k people have been murdered, many of them children. I have friends in the Bay have lost dozens of family members. We must show our support to end the killing, allow humanitarian aid, and the release of ALL hostages. We cannot be silent. To be silent is to be complicit in the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.
Natalya Beil
Location:
Submitted At: 2:13pm 12-19-23
Please focus on LOCAL issues. No resolutions on far away conflicts. It will not solve anything thousands of miles away but will cause local hate and ANTISEMITISM to go up. Keep our community safe and hate free. That’s a council responsibility to take care of local issues and keep communities safe. NO LOCAL TAXES are funding any international policies. Cities that adopted this resolution see increase hate crimes. Take city of Oakland where menorah was destroyed. NO TO LOCAL HATE OR DIVISION!
Matan Jackont
Location:
Submitted At: 2:08pm 12-19-23
Stop discussing divisive issues that tear the community apart. Hate crimes are on the rise, schools are under police protection - you advocate for ceasefire in Gaza but you bring the war here. Please keep our community safe.
Naiema Din
Location:
Submitted At: 2:08pm 12-19-23
Vote Y es on a Ceasefire Resolution. It would being peace and safety to ALL residents in Santa Clara. Residents whose families are being killed and displaced would feel supported.
Nuzhat Shaikh
Location:
Submitted At: 2:00pm 12-19-23
Dear SCL council, as your grieving nurse resident urge you to vote YES on adding a pro humanity resolution to:
-stop the killing of innocent civilians
-allow humanitarian aide into region
-return hostages on both sides
Our tax $ are funding- Day 75 of white phosphorus carpet bombing and illegal war crimes, complete destruction of healthcare and humanitarian aide, over 20k dead,70% being woman and children,1000’s suffocating under rubble, over 30K orphans. Y ou have the power to held end this! Yael G
Location:
Submitted At: 1:53pm 12-19-23
The city of Santa Clara should focus on Santa Clara business! This will have zero influence on international affairs. What it is doing is sowing division and discord within our city in meeting after meeting. We elected you to make Santa Clara a better place. Avoid stirring up hatred and focus on issues within city jurisdiction.
Farnaz FS
Location:
Submitted At: 1:52pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire now and save children
Stop the genocide of innocents with my money!
Use that 14 Billion to improve SF which now looks worst than 3rd world city.
While you support other countries don’t want our city/country to collapse with their burden! Edna Aphek
Location:
Submitted At: 1:52pm 12-19-23
I strongly oppose.
The resolution should call for Hamas to change their manifesto.
A cease-fire could be reached immediately if Hamas, who started the war , massacred 1400 innocent peaceful people, raped and burned people alive, and kidnapped 240 people, returned the hostages, laid down their weapons, and recognized the state of Israel.
Adopting a onesided resolution would highten tension and hatred in our neighborhood and endanger the safety of our residents.
I strongly oppose!
Ido Josef
Location:
Submitted At: 1:46pm 12-19-23
A resolution on the conflict will do nothing to solve the conflict, but will have a big impact on the the division in our community and in putting Jewish community at risk. The City Council should stay focused on city business and avoid this inflammatory discussion.
There was a cease fire on Oct 6 that got broke by the brutal attack of Hamas. If any, we should adopt a cease terror resolution and stand with our American Values.
Zaynab Hararah
Location:
Submitted At: 1:46pm 12-19-23
Hello - I am a product of the Palestinian Diaspora. My family was from Haifa, and displaced to Gaza. My family has been suffering under Israeli oppression for 17 years. I have lost 40 family members now since October 7.
This has affected the local community and we need to urge our all US government bodies to echo our grief and tell the government to end the biggest humanitarian crisis of our lives. End killing on both sides, allow humanitarian aide, and release all the hostages.
Maram Othman
Location:
Submitted At: 1:45pm 12-19-23
As a Palestinian constituent of Santa Clara for over 20 years, the city of Santa Clara must support a ceasefire in Gaza. It has been dehumanizing to watch a genocide happen to my people in real time, let alone having to explain to people why Palestinians deserve to live.
A ceasefire will help us stay safe in our city, which prides itself in diversity, and save thousands of lives in Gaza.
We’re already 20,000 lives too late
Alina Din
Location:
Submitted At: 1:38pm 12-19-23
Allow aid to Gaza; release hostages, end to killing; ceasefire now Kareem Elsayed
Location:
Submitted At: 1:35pm 12-19-23
I am a business owner who lives/works in Santa Clara for the past 5 years. I strongly support the ceasefire resolution because our common humanity demands that we do all that we can to end human suffering. I think we can all agree that every human life is precious and all hostilities should end, so aid can flow freely and so that all hostages can be released. This will make Santa Clara safer for our Israeli, Jewish, Palestinian, Christian, and Muslim neighbors.
K. P.
Location:
Submitted At: 1:32pm 12-19-23
If we can play even a small part in ending the violence against civilians in Gaza, then we have a responsibility to do so
Chahid Bagdouri
Location:
Submitted At: 1:22pm 12-19-23
The Zionist occupation of Palestine cannot be more clear than it currently is. The Palestinians have been suffering for over 75 years. The occupation must end now. If every single U.S. city passes a resolution affirming basic human rights to the Palestinians, the U.S. government will be pressured to stop sending blank checks to Israel. CEASEFIRE NOW!!!
Emma Brill
Location:
Submitted At: 1:22pm 12-19-23
DO NOT accede to outside pressure on an Israel/Gaza resolution. It does nothing to promote the safety and security of our local residents and is outside the purview of council matters. Local officials need to deal with the business of running the city, not weigh in on foreign policy issues. If these resolutions continue to come up in local government, we will be need to consider your positions on foreign policy issues when we decide who to vote for. Stick to the business of running the city.
Ceasefire Now
Location:
Submitted At: 1:22pm 12-19-23
As a Palestinian American Santa Clara resident, I urge you to support a ceasefire resolution. The Santa Clara Police Department released a statement that they “stand resolutely with our Israeli community members.” Now in the 3rd month of a genocide against the Palestinians, there has been no statement in support of “our Palestinian community members.” Can you imagine how safe we feel when our police department stands with those who occupy and kill our loved ones?
Ceasefire Now
Location:
Submitted At: 1:20pm 12-19-23
Send a message showing that Santa Clara stands for peace and against the vicious murder of innocent kids and civilians.
Add a resolution for the Jan agenda to: 1) support a permanent ceasefire and an end to the genocide in Gaza, Palestine 2) allow for humatarian aid 3) release of all hostages from both sides.
Salem Ajluni
Location:
Submitted At: 1:20pm 12-19-23
The most recent NYT/Siena poll shows 57% of disapprove of Biden's Israel-Palestine conflict policies. But Bay Area politicians don't reflect the opinions of their constituents in their actions and statements. We need local government, much closes to the people on the ground than are out of touch congresspeople, to reflect and express our views: ceasefire now!
Eihab Ketat
Location:
Submitted At: 1:20pm 12-19-23
I urge you to agendize a resolution to call for peace and stopping the violence in Gaza. It’s heart-wrenching to know that more than 10,000 children have been killed in just two months and many are still under the rubbles.
That resolution should include at a minimum: stopping the killing of innocent civilians, allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and return hostages on both sides. Human life is sacred and there's nothing divisive about stopping the killing of innocent children, women and elderly.
Karl Schaffer
Location:
Submitted At: 1:19pm 12-19-23
As a Jewish participant on this issue I support a Ceasefire resolution and continuing discussion. Many local people have suffered deaths of family members and friends. Ending the killing, support for humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza population, and release of all hostages on both sides must take place. The alternative is continued indiscriminate bombing and attacks on refugee centers, hospitals, schools and homes in Gaza that has killed over 7,000 children and is starving the population.
Noman Hn
Location:
Submitted At: 1:16pm 12-19-23
I support this for the following reasons:
1) US federal government is failing to prevent a genocide in Gaza 2) US federal government stands isolated at the UNGA and UNSC (only major nation to vote no to a ceasefire) 3) Santa Clara residents have family members in Gaza who have been killed, made homeless, and crippled by the Israeli bombardment
4) Santa Clara residents have family members being killed by US made bombs 5) Santa Clara took a stand for Ukraine and Palestinians are also human Laksh Bh
Location:
Submitted At: 1:13pm 12-19-23
Santa Clara must pass a ceasefire resolution that also calls for the release of all hostages. Billions of our tax dollars are being used to cause untold suffering to constituents’ loved ones.
Our Arab, Muslim, and Jewish communities are vulnerable. There has been a 400% increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes in the Bay Area, and both antisemitism and anti-Palestinian racism have similarly gone up. That is why we need to advocate for peace, deescalate, and recognize our common humanity.
Arif Abdullah
Location:
Submitted At: 1:05pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire Now! No more tax-dollar for the apartheid israeli regime! America has historically supported apartheid regimes throughout its history (including South Africa) and we're see it happening again. But not anymoe, not in our name! All the reputable human rights organization across the world (including B'Tselem, Y esh Din, HRW, FIDH, HSRC, Amensty, UN) have unequivocally declared israel as an apartheid state. We must speak up for the people who are suffering its oppression for last 75 years! David Friedman
Location:
Submitted At: 1:01pm 12-19-23
The proposed ceasefire resolution is a needlessly divisive topic for a city government to take up. And it creates real hatred. Witness the recent destruction of the menorah in Lake Merritt (Oakland) after Oakland's city council took up and passed (after inflamed) debate a similar resolution.
The job of the city government is to look after its people: not inflame tensions among local residents over a conflict thousands of miles away.
Daniel Taller
Location:
Submitted At: 12:54pm 12-19-23
I oppose the ceasefire resolution because a statement by Santa Clara will have no effect on the conflict but will only inflame tensions here in Santa Clara.
In addition, a ceasefire is not feasible because Hamas has stated that they want to repeat the Oct 7 massacre again and again until Israel is destroyed; they do not want a permanent peace. Previous ceasefire efforts organized by President Biden were abandoned for this reason. It would be better to follow the president's lead on this issue.
Makani Gadzair
Location:
Submitted At: 12:52pm 12-19-23
I live and work in Santa Clara. Please council, every day that goes by more of our loved ones die. We would like our city to call for the genocide in Gaza to end. We beg you. We have to apply the pressure upwards, starting from our cities. Be our voice. Thank you.
Deema Saddik
Location:
Submitted At: 12:52pm 12-19-23
This is a very important step towards saving lives and ensuring aching members of your community are heard.
Calling for the killing of civilians on both sides to end, humanitarian aid to be let in, and hostages released on both sides is not political and the moral stance for humanity. It is the bare minimum we can and must do. We need to call for this genocide to end at every level. Thank you councilman park for bringing this forward. I pray it passes so we can work towards peace together.
Amira Mamoun
Location:
Submitted At: 12:51pm 12-19-23
I have family members got killed and the rest are living in the street with no food or shelter in this cold weather. I urge gov bodies to echo our voices to the Govt. Add to the resolution. Stop killing on both sides, release hostages from both sides, allow humanitarian aids for Palestinians Mimi Ana
Location:
Submitted At: 12:50pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire now, stop the genocide stop fuelling the genocide, save children it’s a human rights issue.
Rich Sol
Location:
Submitted At: 12:49pm 12-19-23
Not this really concerns the Santa Clara City Council, but if anything it should come out in support of Israel in its fight against the torture, murder, and wanton destruction attack by the Nazieque Hamas. Hamas initiated this war, it's been attacking Israel for years with war crime targetting of civilians and use of human shields, and the attacks keep getting worse. No other country besides Israel would be expected to tolerate this ongoing campaign of murder.
Marzia Usman
Location:
Submitted At: 12:43pm 12-19-23
We need stop killing the innocent civilians; Our taxpayers money need to invested for the development of our country and not funding the genocide;
Arzu Tosun
Location:
Submitted At: 12:41pm 12-19-23
This has affected the local community with many lost family members, and we need to urge US gov bodies to echo our grief and voices to the Govt. to end the biggest humanitarian crisis of our lives! Please add to the resolution:
-End to the killing on both sides
-Allow humanitarian aide
-Release of all hostages”
Dee Cass
Location:
Submitted At: 12:40pm 12-19-23
The genocide that Israel is carrying out against Palestinians is being funded by our U.S. tax dollars. Our Palestinian-American community members have lost many family members in Gaza. Silicon Valley is home to several major weapons manufacturers, whose weapons are being used to commit war crimes. This is not some far-removed foreign policy issue, it is closely connected to our local community here in the South Bay.
Humera Diwan
Location:
Submitted At: 12:38pm 12-19-23
Ceasefire Now!
It is of utmost important for city council to be responsible for the safety of all it's residents despite race, religion, and ethnicity.
Drop all one sided resolutions as municipalities have no place in foreign politics and you are already walking a rather fine line.
Mohammad Swaleh
Location:
Submitted At: 12:37pm 12-19-23
Supporting for peace anywhere should always be supported by self thinking humans.
Samia I
Location:
Submitted At: 12:29pm 12-19-23
It should not offend anyone when we say we oppose indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians. Please use your platform to stand on the right side of history and say this isn’t okay. Remember, your silence means you don’t care about gross violations of humans rights and international law.
Ceasefire Now
Location:
Submitted At: 12:28pm 12-19-23
Imagine being against a resolution that could bring the end of killing and destruction. Imagine being against a resolution and instead wanting the massacres to continue because it’ll make people feel safer here and make for less divisiveness here…? Wanting children to have a fighting chance, wanting starvation and spread of disease to stop, that makes people feel unsafe? Our government sends billions of dollars in aid and that makes us complicit in genocide. It’s is our right/duty to spreak up.
Khaled Alashmouny
Location:
Submitted At: 12:27pm 12-19-23
Please add it asap. Unconditional ceasefire, rebuild Gaza, release detainees and hostages without exceptions Ahmed Awad
Location:
Submitted At: 12:21pm 12-19-23
I urge the council members to do the morally right thing and call for a cease fire and do everything possible to stop the ongoing genocide.
It’s also becoming more and more clear that a ceasefire is the only way to secure the release of the hostages on both sides and the only way to bring peace and prosperity to both sides. Our policy makers are already acknowledging this.
This is extremely important to our community members which some of them lost tens of their family.
Marwan M
Location:
Submitted At: 12:19pm 12-19-23
We are facing a crises never seen before, and US is taking a very active part in it, Community members are grieving and morning friends and family members, We need our elected officials to echo our voices and help raise that to the biden administration.
CEASEFIRE NOW, NO TAX $$ FOR GENOCIDE
PLEASE VOTE YES to support issuing a city statement to support humanity, over 20 thousands are dead with
1.9 Million Displaced
over 90 journalists dead in the worst war with Press losses in modern history.
Ay AM
Location:
Submitted At: 12:11pm 12-19-23
As a Jewish woman with Israeli heritage, I know we are all connected. Our liberation is intertwined. Global affairs affect our local communities. Those who hold Palestinian, Arab, Jewish, and Israeli identities are ALL grieving, experiencing fear, pain, and immense loss. Call for a ceasefire so non-combatants can have a chance at living (how many is too many dead in Gaza and the West Bank?!), and we can get ALL hostages back home (Israeli and Palestinian).
Lamia Ammar
Location:
Submitted At: 12:10pm 12-19-23
This is a very important resolution. Please pass it immediately! Mariam Sarhan
Location:
Submitted At: 12:02pm 12-19-23
It is a shame that this is even a conversation, that ending the genoide, slaughter, and murder of children is even up for debate. Choosing a ceasefire is choosing basic humanity. End the slaughter NOW, end the genocide NOW, end the destruction NOW, CEASEFIRE NOW.
Himadri Gupta
Location:
Submitted At: 11:56am 12-19-23
Please follow in the brave footsteps of Oakland, Richmond, and other cities and pass a resolution standing out against genocide in support of Palestinians!
Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian
Location:
Submitted At: 11:52am 12-19-23
Santa Clara's website clearly states: The City Council, as the legislative body, represents the citizens of Santa Clara and is empowered by the City's Charter to formulate Citywide policy. It is not within the purview of Council to propose resolutions pertaining to international matters - especially ones that are highly problematic because of their divisiveness and contention. Please do not second a motion to include any resolution for or against the conflict in the Middle East.
Mia Shani
Location:
Submitted At: 11:39am 12-19-23
This resolution is a poke in the eye for the Jewish and Israeli community of the city.
If you state an opinion, please release a balanced statement - considering Hamas is the attacker and perpetrator of the ongoing war.
Just this morning missiles were shot - from heavily populated "human shield" areas of Gaza into Tel Aviv and other cities in Israel.
The day that Hamas stops attacking Israel and releases the innocent kidnapped persons - is the day that the war will end.
Hamas MUST be stopped!
Jeff Wolfeld
Location:
Submitted At: 11:26am 12-19-23
I ask the Council not to move forward with any resolution on the war between Israel and Hamas. No resolution is needed in order to acknowledge that the situation is horrific. Local resolutions have no effect, nor do they benefit the local community. They only serve to inflame tensions by providing a public forum for blatant antisemitism and animosity against the Jewish and Israeli communities. This amplifies hate and division and is harmful to both the Muslim and Jewish communities.
Jeanette Lerner
Location:
Submitted At: 10:51am 12-19-23
The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has deeply impacted many members of the Jewish community.
Many of us are in mourning. One sided resolutions further traumatize the Jewish community by erasing the impact of the October 7 terrorist attacks and ignoring Israel’s right to defend itself.
BI Ito
Location:
Submitted At: 10:11am 12-19-23
Instead of amplifying hate and division, Santa Clara City Council should lead with empathy and ensure all local residents feel supported and welcomed. The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has impacted so many members of our community, and non-binding, performative resolutions will not bring peace. During times of crisis, elected leaders must work to bring people together – not tear us apart.
Steven Weiner
Location:
Submitted At: 10:03am 12-19-23
Santa Clara City Council should not entertain a one-sided resolution ignoring the atrocity Hamas committed on Oct. 7th by invading Israel and brutally murdering, sexually assaulting, and kidnapping many hundreds of innocent people -- including babies, young children, women, elderly, infirm, and whole families. A one-sided resolution ignoring Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas will only amplify ignorance-based hate against our Jewish community.
Ariel Sutton
Location:
Submitted At: 9:49am 12-19-23
Local resolutions regarding the war between Israel and Hamas do not benefit the local community. They only serve to inflame tensions in local communities by providing a forum for blatant antisemitism and animosity against the Jewish and Israeli communities. This amplifies hate and division and is harmful to both the Muslim and Jewish communities. During times of crisis, elected leaders must work to bring people together – not tear us apart.
Laura MacDougall
Location:
Submitted At: 10:41am 12-18-23
Over 7000 children have been killed in Gaza, nearly 70 in the West Bank, as of today.
Santa Clara, we can stand up for humanitarian law, & say to our children, this is wrong, we do not condone this, we call for a ceasefire. When our leaders fail us we must stand up as a community. We cannot fail our children.
Please I urge you to pass a resolution that calls for an immediate end to the killing of civilians, for complete access of humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages on both sides.