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Public commenters urge Denver to end sister-city ties with Carmel, citing alleged human-rights abuses
Summary
Multiple speakers urged Denver City Council to sever or publicly review its sister-city relationship with Carmel (Israel), citing allegations of land seizure, discriminatory policies, and recent violence; speakers left materials with the clerk and asked for disclosure of city investments tied to Israel.
Several public commenters urged Denver City Council to end or review the city's sister-city relationship with Carmel, which they accused of human-rights abuses and discriminatory policies.
Elliot Howe, who identified himself as a resident of District 1, called on the council to "remove Carmel" as a sister city, citing what he described as historic land seizures and policies that he characterized as apartheid. He cited lawsuits and court decisions as examples of discriminatory treatment of Arab residents in that municipality.
Eric Gross read excerpts from an article he said was published in Haaretz and left printed copies with the clerk; he also pointed to visible symbols in the building (an Israeli flag) and referenced economic links involving companies that operate in Colorado. Gross framed his remarks as related to the sister-city connection.
Lara Gonzalez, speaking in part in Spanish, demanded disclosure of any city investments tied to Israel, referenced the BDS (boycott, divestment, sanctions) movement and criticized elected officials who do not support divestment, saying the council should denounce Israel and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (APAC). Her comments included profanity and broad policy assertions.
None of the commenters reported a formal response from council members during the session. Their statements included allegations about foreign government actions and corporate ties; the transcript records the claims but does not include official verification or responses from city staff during the meeting.
