Portland, Maine CEASEFIRE resolution passed on January 3, 2024

RESOLUTION CALLING FOR AN IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE IN GAZA AND ISRAEL

WHEREAS, the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Portland Maine recognize the importance of peace and security for all communities and nations around the world regardless of national, ethnic or religious affiliations; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Portland advocate for the safety, dignity, freedom, and equality of all people, regardless of religion, race, or nationality; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Portland recognize that all human life is precious; and

WHEREAS, since October 7, 2023, armed violence has claimed the lives of and wounded thousands of individuals in Gaza and Israel; and

WHEREAS, lives continue to be at imminent risk of death if a ceasefire is not achieved without delay;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Portland, Maine, join with representatives of other cities in calling on our President and Congressional Members to demand an immediate ceasefire to urgently end the current violence in Gaza and Israel; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be sent to the offices of United States Maine Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, United States Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and United States President Joseph Biden, urging them to take immediate action to use their position and influence to end violence.