Rep. Matsui calls for temporary ceasefire in Gaza; Protesters to hold candlelight vigil at her residence demanding more
The Israel-Palenstian conflict has generated international controversy and has worked its way into American communities. The debate over the American response has appeared throughout California, including Sacramento.
Several members of Congress, Democrats in particular, have been ensnared in the controversy. In the Sacramento region, Democratic Rep Doris Matsui has gathered the attention of proponents demanding an immediate ceasefire.
Last night, Matsui issued a statement supporting a temporary negotiated ceasefire. Mastui called for the return of the hostages taken in early October and humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians.
In part, Matsui’s statement said:
“I strongly support Israel’s right to protect its people from harm. Hamas’ horrific terrorist attacks on October 7th against Israeli civilians and their ongoing use of Palestinian civilians as human shields are unconscionable and inexcusable. Lasting peace can only be achieved if Hamas’ terrorist infrastructure is dismantled. At the same time, we must exhaust every option to prevent the death of innocent civilians. The scope of destruction is devastating. I have spoken to my Palestinian constituents who have lost family members and relatives of those held hostage by Hamas. I share the deep grief of our community.”
On the other side of the conflict, a group of Sacramento area activists announced this morning they would hold a candlelight vigil late this afternoon outside of Matsui’s Land Park residence. They are demanding Matsui support an immediate ceasefire.
That statement said, “Since Rep. Matsui has failed to call for a ceasefire and an end to U.S. support for Israel’s ongoing killing of Palestinian civilians, concerned citizens plan to vigil TUESDAY, NOV. 21 at 4:30-6 p.m. in front of the Congresswoman’s house in Land Park…”
“Rep. Matsui’s constituents are demanding she push for an immediate ceasefire to end the killing and destruction, and for an end to U.S. financial and political support for the war crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing now being carried out by the Israeli military against the Palestinian people in Gaza.”
The press release came from the group that has identified itself as the Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights. The statement said the group includes 20 organizations including the Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Veterans for Peace, and the Palestine Task Force of the California Nevada Conference of the United Methodist Church.
