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Residents press Champaign council to divest from Israel; council members urge civility
Summary
Dozens of residents used the Jan. 21 Champaign City Council public‑comment period to call for local divestment from Israel and for an explicit ceasefire statement, while other speakers defended Israel and council members emphasized free‑speech protections and civility. No formal divestment vote occurred.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Dozens of residents addressed the Champaign City Council on Jan. 21 urging the city to divest from companies tied to Israel and to adopt a stronger public stance demanding a ceasefire in Gaza; other speakers defended Israel’s actions and council members urged civility and reaffirmed free‑speech protections in council chambers.
Why it matters: Speakers said local investment and procurement decisions can signal the city’s stance and pressure corporations and governments; proponents asked the council to consider divestment or a formal ceasefire resolution, while opponents warned of security and historical context. The council did not take formal action on divestment during the meeting.
Speakers and positions
- Maya Novick (resident) opened a block of public comments by saying she was “here today to continue my 8 month quest to get this council to divest funds from the state of Israel,”…
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