The Peace Coalition of Southern Illinois is organizing two significant events to call for an immediate arms embargo on Israel, in response to escalating violence and human rights violations in Gaza and the West Bank.
The first event is the Monthly Peace and Justice Vigil, which will take place at the corner of Main and Illinois Avenue in Carbondale.
The second event is a Rally for Peace in Gaza at the Pavilion.
Both events aim to raise awareness about the need for the U.S. to cease military aid to Israel, as mandated by the Foreign Assistance Act and the Leahy Law, which prohibit providing weapons to countries engaged in gross violations of human rights.
Since October 7, the U.S. has sent over 50,000 tons of military equipment to Israel, averaging two arms shipments per day. Activists are urging the government to listen to the growing movement demanding a halt to these shipments.
Along with concerns over Gaza, the issue of weapons smuggling to criminal gangs in Haiti will also be highlighted, drawing attention to the U.S.’s weak gun laws that exacerbate violence in the region.
The Peace Coalition vigil will be on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from Noon to 1:00 PM, and the Rally for Peace on Sunday, September 8, 2024, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM. The next Zoom meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2024, at 6:00 PM.
