The Chicago City Council has voted to approve a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas, making it the largest city in the United States to do so. Mayor Brandon Johnson broke a 23-to-23 tie to ensure passage of the resolution. Before the council discussion, residents and activists spoke passionately about their support of a cease-fire, cheering and clapping for their peers. Similar debates have played out in communities nationwide as the passions ignited by the war in Gaza have reverberated through American politics. On Tuesday, hundreds of Chicago Public School students walked out of class in support of the resolution. The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, the civil rights activist, attended the meeting in support of the resolution. Alderman Daniel La Spata, a sponsor on the resolution, acknowledged on Wednesday that the city’s vote would not directly affect international policy. Despite the emotions surrounding the issue, council members held a largely restrained and respectful discussion. Around 70 cities in the country, including San Francisco, Seattle and Detroit, have passed resolutions on the war, with at least 47 of those calling for an immediate cease-fire, according to Reuters.
2024-01-31 20:27:02
Original from www.nytimes.com