commentary editorials
So, if We’re Against Zionism, then we are Against Racism and Genocide–not against Jews.
By Cindy Sheehan
Recently, there was a resolution passed by Congress that supported Israel and condemned Hamas. This move by Congress has been both hailed and criticized by many people across the world. While there is a need to promote peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine, it is important to pinpoint the flaws in this resolution and address them head-on. editorials
Firstly, it is important to highlight that anti-Semitism is a deplorable act that should be condemned in all its forms. The resolution did not address the systematic, and decades long, oppression of Palestinians, and its bias towards solely condemning Hamas does nothing but fan the flames of conflict between both parties.
Secondly, the resolution limited the conversation to only two parties, and this was not inclusive of other Palestinian groups or the Palestine people in general. To reach a peaceful solution, all relevant concerned parties need to be fully represented at the table, which was not the case in this resolution.
Thirdly, the resolution lacked empathy and understanding. Congress failed to acknowledge the plight of Palestinians and address the root causes of violence, such as genocide, poverty, occupation, and social injustices. To achieve lasting peace, there needs to be mutual understanding and a willingness to bridge gaps, which was missing in this resolution.
Fourthly, the resolution puts pressure solely on Palestine to make concessions, and Israel is virtually left unaddressed. It is essential that both parties feel the equity of changes and mutual benefits of peace efforts, which was not evident in this resolution.
Lastly, it is important to realize that the only way forward is through peaceful dialogue and negotiations. The international community needs to step up and support Palestine, and, then condemn Israel to have equitable conversations that look out for everyone’s interests and needs. We all know how the David v. Goliath battle ended.
commentary editorials
Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, voted against the resolution, writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, “I’m voting No on the resolution because it equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism.”
Read more at: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article282459243.html#storylink=cpy
The resolution by Congress was in direct violation of the First Amendment to the constitution and was another meaningless gesture, but should give we who are pro-Palestinian, including Palestinians, the chills. Instead of promoting peace, it fueled disharmony, and failed to address the root causes of violence and oppression. Going forward, a change in strategy that focuses on equality, empathy, and inclusivity is the only way forward. We must encourage our leaders to think critically, empathize with others, and work towards peaceful resolutions to all global conflicts.
“Both Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live with democracy, safety, peace, and human dignity,” Rep. Tlaib said in a statement. “This resolution that ignores the existence of the Palestinian people brings us no closer to peaceful coexistence.”
Read more at: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article282459243.html#storylink=cpy
Every Congress-critter, except Thomas Massie (R-Ky) and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mn) voted in favor of this latest war crime. It shows that the assholes in the House can come together for genocide. They suck.
“I’m proud that 210 Republicans and 202 Democrats set aside our differences and came together to show support for our closest ally in the Middle East,” Rep. Mike Lawler, a New York Republican who introduced the resolution, said in a statement.
Read more at: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article282459243.html#storylink=cpy
Cindy Lee Sheehan is an American anti-war activist, whose son, U.S. Army Specialist Casey Sheehan, was killed by enemy action during the Iraq War. She attracted national and international media attention in August 2005 for her extended antiwar protest at a makeshift camp outside President George W. Bush’s Texas ranch—a stand that drew both passionate support and criticism. Sheehan ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2008. She was a vocal critic of President Barack Obama’s foreign policy. Her memoir, Peace Mom: A Mother’s Journey Through Heartache to Activism, was published in 2006. In an interview with The Daily Beast in 2017, Sheehan continued to hold her critical views towards George W. Bush, while also criticizing the militarism of Donald Trump.
Ms.Sheehan was the 2012 vice-presidential nominee of the Peace and Freedom Party, and received 1.2% of the statewide vote in the 2014 California gubernatorial election.
The author graciously has granted this website permission to reprint selected essays.
The views expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect those of APS Radio News or of its affiliate, APS Radio
commentary editorials
