Destruction continues in Palestinian territories
On May 19, Israeli forces destroyed over 1,500 fruit trees at the Tent of Nations Peace Project Farm near Bethlehem. The Nassar family has owned this farm for generations, modeling coexistence with its neighbors and internationally promoting solidarity for a just peace that all people, regardless of ethnicity, can enjoy. Several Chico residents have already experienced this family's warm hospitality.
Friends of Tent of Nations North America (FOTONNA) ask that we request of our religious and civic leaders a commitment to: 1) demand a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the bulldozing of the farm and, 2) pressure Israel to stop the destruction of Palestinian farms and homes.
We must ask: Why do our leaders allow the state of Israel such impunity? How much control over Palestinian agricultural production, livelihood and life itself must the state exert until it is enough? How do the Nassar family and the Palestinian people steadfastly refuse to be enemies (and for how long can they keep it up) in the face of relentless provocation?
Many of us have become numbingly accustomed to knowing our tax dollars support this travesty of justice and that our shopping dollars support businesses that benefit the occupation. Still, it is mortifying.
To learn more or to sign a petition of support, go to www.fotonna.org.
— Ann Polivka, Chico