Los Angeles, CA – The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), the largest immigrant rights organization in California, bemoaned the staggering loss of life, destruction of entire communities, and the anger and hate permeating the Israel/Palestine conflict.
The following are statements by Angelica Salas, CHIRLA Executive Director.
“On news that more than 10,000 people have been killed in Gaza, in addition to the 1,400 killed and the 240 men, women, and children kidnaped by the terrorist acts of October 7 in Israel, we join the chorus of concerned citizens of the world calling for a cease fire, humanitarian assistance to the millions of affected Palestinians, and for the voices of reason, restraint, and peace to prevail after nearly a month of armed conflict in the region.
We mourn the loss of life on all sides, the destruction of entire communities, the forceful displacement of millions, and the exploding rhetoric of hate and anger against any group of people. Human life is precious, but especially that of vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and the sick, and those who cannot fight back aggression and oppression.
We denounce antisemitism and acts of terror that place a higher value to one group of people over another. As brothers and sisters who inhabit this small world, we are all precious. Seeking to punish terrorists for acts of cowardice and violence may be a military goal, but hurting and killing thousands of innocent civilians should never be acceptable, even in war. A humanitarian cease fire, the opportunity for humanitarian assistance to reach those who most need it, and a diplomatic solution to the conflict, should be considered immediately before more lives are torn apart on all sides.”
