CUPE Ontario strongly supports an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza. We have taken decisive actions to demonstrate our commitment to peace, justice, and human rights.
Both CUPE National and CUPE Ontario have officially endorsed the Ceasefire Now statement, signifying our unequivocal support for efforts to end the hostilities. This endorsement reflects the collective voice of various organizations, unions, faith groups, and allies, including Arab, Jewish, and civil society organizations. Together, we are united in our unwavering commitment to achieving lasting peace.
At CUPE’s recent national convention in Quebec City, delegates passed Emergency Resolution 804, which called on the Canadian government to demand an immediate ceasefire in Israel-Palestine. Importantly, this resolution represents the clear consensus of CUPE members nationwide, passing with a substantial 70% majority.
The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where 2.2 million residents face severe shortages of essentials like food, water, medicine, electricity and fuel, underscores the urgent moral duty to implement a ceasefire.
Furthermore, a ceasefire is essential for the safe return of approximately 240 hostages taken by Hamas from Israel on October 7. The urgency of their release and reunification with their families highlights the immediate need for de-escalation and meaningful peace negotiations.
The devastating human toll of the conflict is a tragedy of unprecedented proportions, with over 10,000 Palestinians, including more than 4,000 innocent children, losing their lives in the fighting. Many others are missing and presumed buried under the rubble of destroyed buildings, underscoring the imperative to end the violence.
The impact on healthcare facilities in Gaza has been profound, with over 100 healthcare facilities targeted by Israeli forces, according to reports from the World Health Organization. This has resulted in the closure of 14 out of 35 hospitals in Gaza, compounding an already dire healthcare crisis.
CUPE Ontario takes great pride in standing in staunch solidarity with other unions and labor movements, both domestically and globally. Many of these organizations have also joined the collective global demand for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing the urgency and universality of this call for peace in the region.
Our commitment to promoting peace and alleviating the suffering resulting from ongoing hostilities is unshakable. As a union, we firmly believe in the power of collective action to drive meaningful change. We extend an open invitation to all our members to join us in any initiative that underscores our shared call for justice and lasting peace. Together, we can make a profound impact and work towards a more equitable and harmonious world.
