Re: “An important voice has been omitted of statements about Gaza” [April 28, Opinion]:
I discover it unsettling that on this column, institution Jewish organizations ask that “their lived experiences and their voices be central to adopting positions,” whereas Palestinian lived experiences and voices have been undeniably marginalized and suppressed for many years.
Within the column, Rabbi Will Berkovitz, CEO of Jewish Household Service, said {that a} cease-fire might result in one other Oct. 7. Are indiscriminate bombings, blocking entry to water, meals and medication, and mass hunger in Gaza wanted to maintain Israeli folks protected?
Because the Jewish Group Relations Council organizations name for inclusivity, I urge them to ask Palestinians and take heed to their tales of decades-long oppression. From compelled displacements to violent settler assaults, dwelling demolitions to the restriction of motion by way of checkpoints, and arbitrary arrests and detentions with out trial — the checklist goes on.
The reality is, solely Palestinian freedom is the trail to security for Israeli Jews — and it’s an ethical crucial. I urge mainstream Jewish organizations to affix their Jewish counterparts to name for a cease-fire and the tip of the occupation.
Elisabetta Valenti, Seattle
