Students at IUPUI gathered in Monument Circle early Monday morning to protest the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The Jewish Voice for Peace and the Middle Eastern Student Association at the university teamed up for the rally called Wake Up Indy, demanding an end to the U.S. support of Israel.
Organizers of the rally expressed their opposition to the use of taxpayer funds to support what they deem as a genocide carried out by the Israeli government. They further criticized the relentless bombardment and siege endured by the people of Gaza for over 80 days, resulting in thousands of Palestinian casualties and half the population at risk of starvation due to limited access to food and clean water.
The protest in downtown Indianapolis aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict and call for immediate action from federal, state, and local leaders. Demonstrators marched from Monument Circle to Senator Todd Young’s office, delivering their message directly to him.
Nancy Kohn, representing the Jewish Voice for Peace, voiced her disapproval, stating that she has continuously reached out to local lawmakers, including Senator Young, to urge them to reconsider their support for Israel. Kohn expressed frustration with Young’s unwavering stance, claiming that he believes unconditional support to Israel is necessary due to their status as a close ally of the United States. However, Kohn argues that this unconditional support has allowed Israel to commit what she refers to as genocide.
Protesters at the rally emphasized the importance of accountability, expressing disappointment with the lack of action from their representatives. They called for immediate intervention to halt the mass bombings in Gaza by the Israeli Defense Forces and demanded accountability from Senator Young, who they view as their congressional representative.
The Jewish Voice for Peace, a prominent organization advocating for peace and justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has been actively protesting and plans to continue advocating until the war comes to an end.
The rally in downtown Indianapolis brings together various grassroots organizations and concerned individuals to amplify their voices in favor of peace. With their unified message, they strive to make an impact and raise awareness about the dire situation in Gaza.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas persists, protests continue to provide an opportunity for individuals to express their dissatisfaction and demand change. The issues discussed in Indianapolis resonate with people worldwide who are closely following the events unfolding in the Middle East.
With a goal of channeling their collective power to make a difference, the protesters in downtown Indy send a strong message to their government representatives and the international community. Their call for peace is echoed by countless others around the world who hope to see an end to the violence and suffering inflicted upon the people of Gaza.
