AUSTIN, Texas — Texans took to the steps of the state Capitol in a demonstration against conflict and suffering overseas. On Sunday, residents from across the Lone Star State convened in Austin, calling for a halt to the Israel-Hamas war. The "Texas Statewide Rally Against Genocide in Palestine," coordinated by the Austin for Palestine Coalition, saw a wide range of individuals uniting for a cease-fire and an end to U.S. support for Israel.
"Abbott, Abbott you can't hide. We charge you with genocide," and "Biden, Biden you're a liar. We demand a cease-fire," chanted the assembly, voicing their demands to end the hostilities and cut off financial and military aid to Israel. The rally highlighted a growing sense of urgency among Texans to decisively to address the months-long conflict that has sparked global attention, as reported by KVUE.
Protesters critiqued both Governor Greg Abbott for his staunch support of Israel and President Joe Biden for continuing aid amidst the war. Biden recently signed an executive order imposing sanctions on those inciting violence in the conflict, declaring in a social media post, "Today’s action seeks to promote security for Israelis and Palestinians alike," according to KVUE.
Speaker inclusion from various backgrounds, such as the Jewish Voice for Peace, was a notable feature of the event. "It's really critical that we be visible in this struggle," said by Ronnie Gelman, a member of the Jewish Voice for Peace, per CBS Austin.
