10/14/2023
Statement of Values and Solidarity with Israel:
Love and compassion are shared beliefs across all major religions whether Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism etc. I also know the actions of violent extremists do not represent the religions in whose name they operate. These people are extremist outliers with no moral compass and no regrets.
The savage violence inflicted recently by Hamas on Israeli men, women and children should never be accepted or excused.
I believe this is a critical time to stand by Israel and for each of us to support governmental and private efforts to provide whatever help Israel needs to defend itself and recover. I believe in Israel. I believe in justice, and I believe in making sure this never happens again.
As our only democratic ally in the Middle East, Israel has long stood alone. I was very proud of President Biden’s statement following these terrorist massacres of full support for Israel and believe that is exactly what we need to do as a people and a country –from every local town like Leonia through our county, state and federal governments. 100% support for Israel, its democracy and its people in the face of those who fail to even recognize Israel’s right to exist.
Just as unparalleled diplomatic progress was being made between Saudi Arabia and Israel, Hamas unleashed this brazen and irrefutably violent attack. The timing is not a coincidence. Nor was the strategic nature of targeting innocent civilians. It was meant to delay peace. And it most likely will. That too is unacceptable. All eyes are on Israel now. I am hopeful Israel will make every effort to protect the basic human rights of innocent people living in Gaza and to do everything they can to recover all the hostages held there.
Here in Leonia, we should rally around the Jewish community as they mourn the losses in Israel and help spearhead efforts of assistance as appropriate. I’m sure we will be hearing more in the coming days about how each of us might be able to help. I will do my part, and each of you I’m confident will do the same.
In these days of polarization and distrust, we can all take some comfort in the fact that most people do not condone the actions of a few extremists and inherently good people are in the majority locally and globally. I truly believe this, and it keeps me going. What actions we take now in support of Israel during this great time of need will help further define who we are and the values we hold dear as Leonians. I know Leonians will be there as I am.
Sincerely,
William (Bill) Ziegler