Grass Valley residents demand ceasefire resolution and arms embargo on Israel

The Grass Valley City Council meeting on February 12, 2025, featured a series of passionate public comments advocating for a ceasefire resolution regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The meeting began with procedural updates before transitioning to public comment, where residents expressed their concerns about U.S. involvement in the conflict and the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Liz, a Grass Valley resident, opened the discussion by condemning the recent actions of U.S. leadership, particularly criticizing President Trump's support for Israeli military actions. She described the situation in Gaza as a humanitarian disaster, calling for the council to adopt a resolution that would publicly oppose what she termed "genocide, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing." Liz urged the council to declare Grass Valley's stance against these actions and to place a ceasefire resolution on the agenda.

Following her, Don Fraser echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for an arms embargo against Israel. He pointed out that the current ceasefire agreements have not been honored, citing ongoing violence and the lack of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza. Fraser highlighted the financial implications of U.S. military support to Israel, arguing that it contradicts laws against funding human rights violations.

Shirley Oates also contributed to the discussion, sharing a heartbreaking story of a pregnant woman who died due to delays in medical assistance caused by Israeli forces. Oates expressed her dismay at the situation and called for the council to take action against the use of taxpayer money in support of military operations in Gaza.

Steve Elias added a personal perspective, recounting his family's history and the impact of conflict on communities. He urged the council to support the resolution for a ceasefire, aligning with the sentiments expressed by previous speakers.

The meeting concluded with a clear call from multiple residents for the council to consider a ceasefire resolution and an arms embargo, reflecting a growing concern among Grass Valley residents regarding the humanitarian implications of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. The council's next steps regarding these requests remain to be seen as they continue to address the community's concerns.