During a recent government meeting, community members passionately urged local officials to pass a ceasefire resolution concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The discussions highlighted the urgent humanitarian crisis, with speakers emphasizing the devastating toll on civilians, particularly women and children.

One speaker, representing the Quaker community, shared a poignant account from a Palestinian grandmother who expressed her grief over the loss of family members in Gaza. This emotional testimony underscored the human cost of the conflict, prompting calls for the U.S. government to reevaluate its military support for Israel. The Quaker representative read a resolution from the Baltimore yearly meeting, which called for an immediate halt to military aid and conditioned any future support on Israel's agreement to a ceasefire, the exchange of hostages, and the provision of humanitarian aid.

Another community member, Steve McCarry, questioned the Norfolk City Council about the delay in signing the ceasefire resolution, despite legal assurances that it would not pose a risk to the community. He pointed out the staggering death toll in Gaza, with over 41,000 reported casualties, and criticized the council for not responding to repeated requests for action. McCarry emphasized the council's responsibility to its constituents and the moral imperative to advocate for peace.

The meeting also featured historical reflections on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with speakers discussing the long-standing grievances and the impact of military actions on Palestinian civilians. They highlighted the destruction in Gaza, where infrastructure has been devastated, and basic necessities are scarce, leading to widespread suffering.

As the meeting concluded, community members reiterated their call for local leaders to take a stand for peace and to pressure the U.S. government to support a ceasefire, reflecting a growing sentiment for humanitarian intervention amidst the ongoing violence.