In a decisive 9-3 vote, the Minneapolis City Council has expressed its approval by passing a ceasefire resolution. This resolution calls for an end to U.S. aid to Israel. On Tuesday, the resolution underwent eight amendments in the presence of a crowd limited by capacity restrictions. The attendees included supporters of Palestinian rights and local Jewish leaders. Concerns have been raised about the risk of genocide in Gaza, as language from the United Nations Human Rights Office was added to an amendment. The resolution is scheduled to be presented to the council for a final vote on Thursday morning.
During Tuesday’s Committee of the Whole meeting, public comment was not included. However, the resolution was moved from fourth to first on the agenda due to the overwhelming support from attendees. Both the temporary council chambers and the designated overflow room were filled with supporters. People who were unable to enter the chambers due to fire code regulations waited in a nearby hall.
Ward 2 Council Member Robin Wonsley emphasized the responsibility of elected representatives to give voice to the concerns and priorities of the public. “The resolution holds significant weight, as it has the potential to influence outcomes. The decision by the largest city in Minnesota to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and oppose military aid to Israel sends a strong message to our state and federal legislators.”
A resolution has been proposed with four main objectives: to establish a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, to halt U.S. financial support to Israel, to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and to ensure the freedom of Palestinians currently detained in Israeli military prisons.
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Minneapolis is set to join the ranks of cities like Detroit, Atlanta, and Seattle by passing resolutions that are similar in nature. “The focal point of this resolution revolves around the fundamental aspect of humanity and the tragic loss of human life,” stated Councilmember Aurin Chowdhury of Ward 12, one of the coauthors of the original resolution.
Some council members expressed their opinion that the council should not involve itself in this conversation. Councilmember Linea Palmisano emphasized that the council should refrain from making claims on foreign policy matters, acknowledging that they are not experts in this field.
Councilmember Michael Rainville described the words as divisive. “The division of our city will be exacerbated.” They refuse to address the issue, hindering our progress.
A spokesperson for Mayor Jacob Frey stated that the council had the chance to back a resolution that aimed to promote peace, a two-state solution, the return of hostages, and a ceasefire. “The language that was used today was seen as one-sided and divisive.”
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