Phillip Tottenham is a Marine Corps veteran that moved to Toledo, Ohio. He has been outspoken about the war happening in Gaza, leading a movement called the Veterans and Allies Fast for Gaza which consisted of a 40-day fast. He is an avid member of the group Veterans for Peace, promoting an end to war and violence across the world. Him and 400 other volunteers are currently in Israeli custody for sailing overseas to deliver aid to those in need. The sailboat, the Ohwayla, whose passengers consist primarily of veterans from the United States, was described on their website to be the largest civilian maritime mission to stop Israel’s siege on Gaza.

Toledo has always been a city full of life, full of a variety of people from different backgrounds. We as a city are a melting pot of different cultures, taking pride in our festivals celebrating our heritage. We also are home to many who have served in the military. Out of all of the people in Ohio, about 6% altogether have served in the military (USAFacts.org). Toledo takes pride in our military, providing a large amount of support for our veterans through organizations around the city. We have also agreed and demanded a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza and have continuously applied pressure on our local governments to continue their stance. We as a city are strong and have shown time and time again that we will fight for our country, the citizens of our city, and for peace. 

We need your help to raise awareness about a courageous veteran being taken away and imprisoned for standing up for what’s right. Toledo demands he comes home and is safe. Please sign and share this petition to help raise awareness to this issue directly affecting one of the citizens of city!! Support our veterans!!!