Episcopal Peace Fellowship

PRESS RELEASE

Press Release For Immediate Release

Contact:
Linda Gaither, Chair, 607-342-7995 (lgaither[at]sonofyork.com); Bill Exner Vice Chair, 603-497-2003 (office[at]stmattsepiscopal.org or exner[at]comcast.net) or Allison Liles, Vice Chair, 256-684-0990 (allisonliles[at]gmail.com)

The National Executive Council of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship voted to endorse the enclosed statement with a vote of 8 yes, 2 no and 1 abstention.

“In response to the ongoing cycle of violence – including Palestinian terrorist bombings and the well documented military and economic violence of the government of Israel against Palestinians – that undermines negotiations and hope for an enduring peace- The NEC of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship, in support of the principles of the Kairos Palestinian Document 4.2.6. endorses the application of divestment and an economic and commercial boycott of products linked to oppression of Palestinian people and occupation of their land. As peacemakers committed to nonviolent resolution of deep-seated conflicts, the National Executive Council joins a growing number of international and religious partners, including Jewish, Muslim, and Christian voices, who believe that economic sanctions can inspire a more useful dialog and negotiation towards a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. Respect for the dignity of every human being, alongside a vision to put aside the violence of terrorism, oppression and military force is key to moving negotiations forward for a lasting peace for all involved.

The National Executive Council asks the Episcopal Peace Fellowship’s Israel/Palestine Action Group to offer resources to our membership and the wider church on effective strategies for boycott, divestment, and sanction, including links to partner groups and educational resources on the history of the cycle of violence and obstacles to peace in Israel/Palestine. We are all the children of Abraham, let us no longer profit at the expense of the safety and security of one another. Instead let us end the violent cycle and build a circle of peace.”

We ask a favor of you: Please refer inquiries to our spokespersons from the NEC see above. Please distribute widely and send to your Diocese Communications officer. Suggestions for actions will follow in the coming weeks.

Chair’s Commentary.
Episcopal Peace Fellowship
637 S. Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois 60605
www.epfnational.org