|
CODEPINK Interrupts Israeli President at AIPAC Conference |
 |
 |
 |
|
Written by Common Dreams
|
|
Wednesday, 06 May 2009 14:42 |
 During Israeli Pres. Shimon Peres' speech today at the annual AIPAC (American
Israeli Political Action Committee) policy conference at the Washington
Convention Center, CODEPINK members raised banners saying "Want Peace? End the
Occupation," "What About Gaza?," and "No Money for War Crimes."
As the six activists were forcibly dragged away from the stage, they shouted
similar phrases including "Tikun olam (Heal the world) for Gaza, too!", all
meant to draw attention to widespread opposition to AIPAC's policies lobbied to
Congress that include unconditional support and financing for Israel's
militaristic policies including the recent devastating invasion of Gaza,
building of illegal settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the
separation wall, refusal to negotiate with the Palestinians' democratically
elected representatives, and threats to attack Iran.
"The brutal invasion of Gaza was a breaking point for me and many American
Jews," said CODEPINK co-founder Medea Benjamin, who recently led a 60-person
delegation to Gaza. "I was appalled by the devastation and the suffering I saw,
particularly among the children. As a mother, I feel compelled to speak out
against Israel's bombing of civilians and the ongoing siege that is so
devastating to the lives of Gaza's 1.5 million people-most of whom are under
18."
While AIPAC claims to represent the U.S. Jewish community, its wholesale support
of the Israel government goes against the majority opinions of the Jewish
Americans. According to a recent survey by the Jewish lobby group J Street, 76
percent of American Jews support a two-state solution, 69 percent support
negotiating with a Fatah-Hamas unity government, and 59 percent felt the Gaza
invasion did not improve Israel's security.
"Like most American Jews, I grew up with a deep appreciation for the state of
Israel," said Rae Abileah, a young American Jew of Israeli descent. "After
witnessing the attack of Gaza on TV and hearing the calls for crippling
sanctions on Iran, I can no longer avert my eyes to the other side of the story
most rabbis still aren't talking about. I am joining the dozens of Jewish
organizations, and the growing global movement, advocating a change in the
Israeli policies of occupation and aggressive violence. It's high time to drop
the victim narrative so that we may all survive, and one day thrive as neighbors."
CODEPINK activists inside the AIPAC conference (with its theme "Relationships
Matter") were: Medea Benjamin, 56, Rae Abileah, 26, Blaine Clarke, 29,
Christianna Reinstein, 21, Desiree Fairooz, 53, and Tighe Barry, 52.
"The most important relationships for Israel to cultivate are not with U.S.
Congressional allies but with the Palestinian people," said Christianna
Reinstein, a student of Middle Eastern studies who joined the protest inside the
AIPAC conference today. "AIPAC's lobbying of Congress has not made Israel more
secure and has hurt American efforts to improve relations in the Arab world."
Source: Common Dreams
* CODEPINK is a women-initiated grassroots peace and social justice movement
working to end the war in Iraq, stop new wars, and redirect our resources into
healthcare, education and other life-affirming activities. CODEPINK rejects the
Bush administration's fear-based politics that justify violence, and instead
calls for policies based on compassion, kindness and a commitment to
international law. With an emphasis on joy and humor, CODEPINK women and men
seek to activate, amplify and inspire a community of peacemakers through
creative campaigns and a commitment to non-violence.
 |
|
Last Updated on Wednesday, 06 May 2009 14:47 |
|
Announcements
Weekly Stall
A weekly stall selling Islamic books and other merchandise, including exclusive framed portaits will be available on Thursday nights from 9pm until 10.30pm during the Dua Kumail Programmes at the Islamic Centre of England.
|
