As someone deeply affected by the devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, I urge the Boulder City Council to pass a Free Palestine Resolution that explicitly commits to Boycotting, Divesting from, and Sanctioning Israel (BDS). It is time we stand up against the atrocities being committed against the Palestinian people and lead by example through decisive action.

The situation in Gaza is dire; over the past years, thousands of lives have been lost, tens of thousands have been injured, and countless families have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict. The blockade and military strikes have decimated Gaza's infrastructure, leaving it in ruins and its people in despair. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, among other organizations, have repeatedly documented the disproportionate and excessive use of force by Israeli forces against Palestinians, actions that have resulted in severe human rights violations.

Boycotts, divestments, and sanctions have a history of success. During the apartheid era in South Africa, similar international solidarity movements played an essential role in dismantling a regime built on racial segregation and oppression. By joining the BDS movement, Boulder can rightfully align itself with the global call for justice and human rights for Palestinians.

Signing a resolution that includes a commitment to BDS against Israel would not only be morally right but would also send a powerful message to Washington. The United States government has long been a pivotal ally of Israel, providing it with billions of dollars in aid annually. By refusing to remain silent, we can highlight the need for our national policy to shift towards supporting the oppressed and hold those in power accountable for their actions.

The resolution should outline specific goals, such as ending any municipal investments in Israeli companies or those profiting from the occupation, and prohibiting city contracts with firms involved in the Israeli military or settlements. It should advocate for broader support through local dialogues and educational programs to increase awareness about the plight of the Palestinian people.

Now is the time for Boulder to be a leader in advocating for human rights on the international stage. By supporting this resolution, we will demonstrate our community’s unwavering commitment to freedom, justice, and peace for all people.

Please sign this petition to urge the Boulder City Council to pass a Free Palestine Resolution and join the global call for a fair and just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.