RS2024-556

This discussion topic was requested by Council member Sheri Weiner to discuss RS2024-556 – “A resolution supporting an end to violence between Israel and Palestine”.

From CM Weiner: 

Colleagues,

I share considerable angst for my Jewish and Muslim friends and for those who I don’t know who have family in Israel and in Gaza.  I hurt with Z, Jacob, Clay, Brenda and Quin.  I hurt with my Muslim client who has immediate family in Gaza with whom I cried on October 9.    

Let’s talk process.  When I review legislation I read it first at face value, then I put myself in the shoes of those who may be impacted…if zoning, I consider the neighbors. In this case, I read it again asking “how would I, as a hostage or family member, react?”.  And again asking “how would I, as a resident in Gaza or family member, react?”   And again “how would I, as the grandmother who was raped and tortured on Facebook or as her family, react?”   Finally I asked myself this: What does this solve?  What message does this send?  How does this help?

Does this address the horror faced by the Israelis who were mercilessly raped, tortured, murdered and kidnapped?  The continued torture and death of the hostages?  

Does this resolution mention that we stand for peace all over the world? That we stand against leaders of countries that attack peaceful nations and that we stand in solidarity with the citizens of Israel and Gaza?

While this addresses the impact of the bombing of Gaza on their residents, does it clearly address the current fate of the hostages who need to be home?  Alive?   For those who have died?

Does it address hundreds of thousands of lives or the millions in the Middle East who are at risk of escalation until all of the hostages are returned, humanitarian aid is delivered without delay and an end to the war is achieved?

We should all pray for the citizens of Gaza and Israel who have no say in the actions of their governments – those who ran for their lives, gave their lives and are continuing to endure unimaginable suffering. All of them.

We were elected by our constituents to do the work of Nashville.  We should honor the pain our constituents are living.  Those suffering from this war need so much more than we can offer in a resolution.  Let’s consider supporting area charities that will support the rebuilding on both sides of the border…broken families, neighborhoods, and broken spirit.

I ask that you ask yourself these questions before you vote on this resolution.  I ask that you consider that we can do better than this for all of our constituents, for the hostages and their families, for those living in Gaza stuck in the middle of the fighting.

Let’s consider a deferral until we can be complete in our support of everyone impacted recognizing the scars, pain, and suffering being unleashed in the Middle East and beyond.  

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best Regards,

Sheri Weiner, Councilmember 

Metro Nashville and Davidson County, District 22