Hilliard, Ohio passed a CEASEFIRE resolution on April 22, 2024

TO CALL FOR PEACE AND AN IMMEDIATE, SUSTAINED AND MUTUAL END TO HOSTILITIES IN GAZA; THE RELEASE OF HOSTAGES AND DETAINEES; AND THE URGENT EXPANSION OF HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE.

WHEREAS, Hilliard City Council defends the basic human rights of all people - irrespective of national, racial, ethnic, religious, political, sexual orientation, gender identity or other marginalized group affiliation - to enjoy the blessings of peace, free from violence, intimidation, and harassment; and

WHEREAS, we condemn Hamas’ terrorist attacks on Israel and hostage-taking of innocent civilians on October 7; and

WHEREAS, we condemn the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza over the last six months of military warfare; and

WHEREAS, Council has heard from countless constituents in Hilliard across diverse communities who are calling for peace, whose loved ones were killed in the worsening conflict, whose families are experiencing famine and devastation, and who have been personally threatened and fear violence; and

WHEREAS, we stand united against anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian and anti-Israeli bigotry; and

WHEREAS, the conflict’s continued escalation heightens the chances of larger regional conflict and threats of violence against our families here in Hilliard.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Hilliard, Ohio:

SECTION 1.

Hilliard City Council reaffirms its commitment to combat anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian and anti-Israeli bigotry, and to unite our community in support of the right of all people to safely live, learn, work, play, and worship, as well as to gather, advocate, mourn, and celebrate, in peace.

SECTION 2.

Council calls for an immediate, sustained and mutual end to hostilities in Gaza; the release of hostages and detainees; and the urgent expansion of humanitarian assistance.

SECTION 3.

Council also stands with the United States government in stressing international legal obligations to protect civilians, humanitarian workers and medical personnel; condemning the taking and killing of hostages, the murder of civilians; opposing additional resettlement in and forced displacement of civilians from Gaza; supporting efforts for the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza; and reiterating an unwavering commitment to the peace process.

SECTION 4.

This Resolution shall be effective upon its adoption.