On Wednesday evening, members of Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) Spokane will stage a demonstration outside the Spokane County Democratic Party office located at 1106 North Washington St. The protest will take place from 5 to 6 p.m., highlighting the group’s concerns over the Democratic Party’s stance on U.S. arms sales to Israel.
The Spokane demonstration is part of a broader initiative by JVP affiliates across the country, aligning with the Uncommitted Movement’s “Not Another Bomb” campaign. This movement aims to urge political leaders to halt military support for Israel amidst ongoing conflict.
JVP’s press release emphasizes the urgency of local action, urging Democratic voters to advocate for the policies of “Ceasefire Now” and “Not Another Bomb.” The organization stresses that these policies are achievable if there is sufficient demand from constituents.
This protest is timed to coincide with the National Democratic Convention taking place in Chicago, aiming to draw national attention to the issue. JVP seeks to pressure the Democratic Party to support an embargo on the continuous flow of military equipment from the Biden administration to Israel.
Recently, the U.S. approved a $20 billion arms deal with Israel, amidst a conflict that has claimed approximately 40,000 Palestinian lives and 1,500 Israeli lives. The local JVP chapter has expressed concerns that bipartisan support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Congress has exacerbated the situation, leading to increased international conflict.
A statement from JVP reflects the group’s dismay: “As Jews, we feel a deep sense of shame when Israel is portrayed as acting on our behalf in this grievous crime against humanity. We unequivocally condemn this representation and the continued support for such actions.”
The Spokane protest is a call to action for both local and national leaders to reevaluate U.S. policy on military aid to Israel and to consider the humanitarian implications of ongoing support.