RESOLUTION

Supporting the release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, preventing loss of human life, and uninterrupted entry of humanitarian aid in the Middle East.

Whereas, the Maplewood Township committee / South Orange Board of Trustees works to ensure the safety, health, dignity, and freedom of people everyday, we follow the lead of other localities in calling for a ceasefire because what happens internationally impacts our constituents locally. We believe in the shared humanity of all people and affirm it as a common value held by Maplewood residents; and

Whereas, Maplewood and South Orange are dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, values all life, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; and

Whereas all human life is precious; and

Whereas hundreds of thousands of lives are at imminent risk if a ceasefire is not achieved and humanitarian aid is not delivered to Gaza without delay, and the risk of regional and global escalation is increasing daily; and

Whereas, we recognize the right to self-determination and peaceful, safe futures for both Palestinians and Israelis; and

Whereas the United States holds immense diplomatic power to save Israeli and Palestinian lives: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Maplewood Township Committee / South Orange Board of Trustees

(1) calls upon the US administration to immediately call for and facilitate deescalation and a permanent ceasefire to end the current violence, as well as the immediate release of all hostages;

(2) calls upon the US administration to promptly send humanitarian assistance into Gaza, and to facilitate the unimpeded entry of such assistance.