CEASEFIRE statement from the Mayor of Bothell, Washington

Issued on October 18, 2023

Our hearts break for everyone affected by the senseless violence in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. If you’re Israeli and/or have connections to the region and live in Bothell, we are glad you’re here. You make Bothell a better place to live, and we want you to feel like you belong here. 

If you’re Palestinian and/or have connections to the region and live in Bothell, we are glad you’re here. You make Bothell a better place to live, and we want you to feel like you belong here. People should be able to live their lives without the threat of violence regardless of where they live, what they look like, or how they worship. The targeting of innocent civilians and children is horrific. That part is simple, even in a historical context that can be complex.

As violent events continue to unfold and escalate, our hearts are with Bothell community members who are hurting, including those who are worried for the safety of their loved ones, or mourning loved ones they have already lost.

Our hearts are also with our community members who fear discrimination and violence being committed against them here. We condemn both anti-semitism and islamophobia and neither will be tolerated in Bothell. 

Join us as we mourn those whose lives have been lost. Join us in hoping for the swift recovery of the injured; the safe release of those taken hostage; the safe return of those displaced from their homes; and the restoration of basic necessities of food, water, medicine, and other services that have been cut off to the Gazan population. Join us in calling for an immediate ceasefire an end to the violence and bloodshed, and the presence of safety, freedom, and justice for all that is required to lead to peace.

Mayor,

Mason Thompson