Richmond, Vermont passed a CEASEFIRE resolution on March 5, 2024

WHEREAS: The Town of Richmond recognizes that all human life is precious, regardless of race, religion, nationality; and

WHEREAS: The horrific Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, resulted in 1,200 ?Israelis killed and more than 240 people taken hostage; and

WHEREAS: The Israeli Government responded with indiscriminate military force, leading to the deaths of over 30,000 Palestinians, including 12,000 children, thousands who have been injured, and millions displaced; and

WHEREAS: This ongoing conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis, leaving millions of people without basic necessities such as food, water, electricity, heat, shelter, and proper medical care; and

WHEREAS: This conflict is not only impacting the international community but is also causing significant trauma, fear, and grief amongst Richmond community members, including both Palestinian and Jewish residents; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the Town of Richmond go on record expressing its support for an immediate, negotiated permanent ceasefire by both Hamas and The Israeli Government, urging the release of all hostages, and calling for the urgent implementation of humanitarian aid and reparations; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the Town Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the offices of The President of the United States, Joseph Biden, Senator Bernard Sanders, Senator Peter Welch, Congresswoman Becca Balint; and be it further

ORDERED: That the Town of Richmond go on record standing against antisemitism and Islamophobia and calling upon all Richmond residents to respect the rights of freedom of speech and peaceful protest, and to strive to treat one another with empathy, grace, and understanding.