09/01/2024 UFW Statement on the Ongoing War in Gaza

Keene, CA - The UFW calls for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages in the ongoing war in Gaza.

"Our hearts are broken by months of senseless slaughter and growing humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine and neighboring areas. As a multiracial labor union composed primarily of immigrant workers and founded on the ideals of non-violence and solidarity, both Jewish and Arab people have a proud history of contributing to the farm worker movement. On the UFW's monument to our martyrs, there is a Star of David - representing 18-year old Nan Freeman from Boston, killed by a company truck on a picket line in 1972. There is also the crescent moon of Islam, representing 24 year old Nagi Daifallah from Yemen, killed by a Kern County Sheriff Deputy in 1973. Since Hamas' horrific attack on October 7th, far too many young people like Nan and Nagi have been killed - in Israel, in Gaza, in the occupied West Bank and across the region.

With this history and legacy in our hearts, we call for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages. We will lend our voice to those supporting Palestinian and Israeli peace activists.

Our movement is proof of what working people of different faiths and backgrounds can achieve when we are united. All of us have a role in working toward securing a just and lasting peace, including respect for the Palestinian and Israeli people's right to safety and self-determination.