During the Cincinnati City Council meeting on September 17, 2025, significant discussions emerged surrounding the humanitarian crises in Gaza and Sudan, as well as the implications of U.S. military funding in these conflicts. The meeting coincided with the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, prompting speakers to reflect on themes of accountability and justice.

One of the most poignant moments came from a speaker who urged council members and residents to confront the realities of U.S. complicity in international violence. They called for a collective reassessment of local actions, emphasizing the need for divestment from companies that profit from human rights violations. The speaker articulated a vision for a future free from oppression, highlighting the urgent need for solidarity against systemic injustices, including the rise of white supremacy.

The discussion also touched on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where access to medical care and basic necessities has been severely restricted. The speaker pointed out that U.S. tax dollars are indirectly funding military actions that contribute to these crises, urging the council to take a stand against such practices. They specifically referenced the production of military equipment in Cincinnati, linking local industry to global conflicts.

Another speaker echoed these sentiments, drawing attention to the famine in both Gaza and Sudan, attributing these conditions to the strategic use of food and resources as weapons of war. They highlighted the role of U.S. arms sales in perpetuating violence, calling for immediate action to divest from arms manufacturers and to cease funding what they termed "genocide."

The meeting underscored a growing movement within the community advocating for ethical investment practices and a reevaluation of local government’s role in global humanitarian issues. As the council continues to navigate these complex discussions, the implications of their decisions could resonate far beyond Cincinnati, influencing local and international perceptions of justice and accountability. The call for divestment and ethical responsibility remains a pressing issue, with advocates urging the council to take decisive action in the coming months.