From:
To: City Council; Mary Gourley
Subject: In support of a ceasefire resolution!
Date: Monday, April 1, 2024 2:22:57 PM
Hello City Council members,
Sebastopol is self-proclaimed "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.
The previously proposed 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 agendizes and passes this resolution, we will join a long list of cities in support of a ceasefire (including Cotati, Richmond, Oakland, San Francisco); we will set an example for the rest of Sonoma County. This action will be part of Sebastopol's legacy; if the City Council fails to act, this will also be part of "Peacetown's" legacy.
Peace is never divisive. When Sebastopol opposed the war against Ukraine they did not worry about the way this may incite violence against Russian civilians because peace is NEVER divisive and because regardless of the opposition we must fight for peace and humanity. The previously proposed 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 putting a ceasefire resolution back on the agenda, and voting YES at the next meeting.
Sincerely,
Maribi Mendoza