From:
To: City Council; Mary Gourley
Subject: Ceasefire Now!
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:22:42 PM
Esteemed City Council Members,
My name is Natasha Vhugen and I am a local resident and voter. I am proudly of Jewish descent, and I am emailing in support of the proposed ceasefire resolution. Sebastopol is selfproclaimed "Peacetown, USA." How can we call ourselves Peacetown if we don't take the brave and urgent measures needed to support peace internationally? Sebastopol has supported many international peace initiatives in the past -- notably, opposition to the war in Ukraine, with our sister city Chyhyryn. We have a precedent for supporting international peace initiatives.
This ceasefire resolution is balanced -- it calls for an end to all armed hostilities on both sides, a return of all hostages, and for long-term peace work to be prioritized in Israel/Palestine. Now is the time for clear and decisive action in support of long-term peace solutions. If Sebastopol passes this resolution, we will join a long list of cities in support of a ceasefire (including Cotati, Richmond, San Francisco); we will set an example for the rest of Sonoma County. This action will be part of Sebastopol's legacy; if it fails, this will also be part of "Peacetown's" legacy.
I recognize that this is a difficult decision. Many people are in opposition to this resolution.
There is a lot of fear here, particularly from Jewish residents, and I understand this fear and feel empathy for those residents. But this resolution does not endanger or promote violence towards anybody, internationally or locally. This resolution promotes peace. Peace unites us, it doesn't divide us. War divides us.
I implore you to do the right thing and take a stand for the peace and dignity of all innocent civilians, in both Israel and Palestine. Please consider keeping this item on the consent calendar, and passing this resolution.
Sincerely,
Natasha Vhugen 95472