(PHILADELPHIA, PA, 12/21/2023) – The Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed State College Borough Council’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza.
The resolution, first introduced in November, expressed support for the call for ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, the establishment of humanitarian corridors, and the reinstatement of essential services to Gaza.
SEE: State College Borough Council passes resolution calling for cease-fire in Gaza
During its December 5 meeting, the Council withdrew the resolution for further review. A Modified resolution passed unanimously by the Borough Council members on Wednesday, Dec. 20. The resolution urges the Biden Administration “… to immediately call for and facilitate de-escalation and a ceasefire to urgently end the current violence in Gaza and to continue its work toward the release of all hostages …”
SEE: Resolution #1371 – A Resolution of the Borough of State College on the war in Gaza
“We welcome State College Borough Council’s resolution #1371 for its call for an immediate ceasefire,” said CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Tekelioglu. “We believe that all people of conscience should stand for peace and humanity. The crisis unfolding in Gaza is hurting our communities and we want the violence to stop immediately. We congratulate State College residents for their perseverance in advocating for this resolution.”
In a statement, Rami Alhellu, president of Islamic Center of Central Pennsylvania in State College said, “We know this message will not immediately end the suffering of the people in Palestine, but at least the Borough was able to send an official message to President Biden that the people of State College will not silently watch as a genocide is taking place.”
“It is heartening to see our Borough Council unanimously pass this resolution underlining the humanity of Palestinians in Gaza. We encourage other cities in PA to push for the same. The coalition that advocated for this resolution included people of all faiths and backgrounds showing us that we are indeed brothers and sisters in humanity sharing some of the same morals and values. We are proud of our city; our efforts and perseverance did not go in vain. I call on all Pennsylvanians to keep up the momentum and keep putting pressure on the Biden administration and keep fighting for justice.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Selim Tekelioglu, PhD; 617-401-5397 (mobile), atekelioglu@cair.com.
