SEIU Local 2015, the largest union in California, representing nearly 450,000 long-term care workers throughout the state, calls for an end to violence in all forms perpetrated on members of our communities here in California and across the globe. At this moment, we join other organizations calling for an end to attacks on civilians, immediate humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, the safe return of hostages, and long-term solutions that will bring safety, peace and justice to the people of the region.
As care workers, we hold as a core belief that all people everywhere regardless of your nationality, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs or gender deserve safety, dignity, and freedom from violence. We believe all people deserve to be cared for and to care for others. We know our fates are intertwined and that collective liberation comes from cross-racial and gender solidarity, understanding, and compassion.
Many of us migrated to the United States to escape war, state violence, persecution for our religious beliefs and gender identity in our home countries. We condemn all forms of violence as a means to an end. Our sisters and brothers, Israeli and Palestinian, continue to be impacted by the violence taking place. We condemn antisemitism, anti-Palestinian racism, and Islamophobia in all forms.
As care workers, we are horrified to see spaces of caregiving and refuge – hospitals, schools, and refugee camps – being targeted – affording no one including tens of thousands of innocent children safety, medical treatment or basic life sustaining elements such as shelter, food and water.
That is why we implore members of the California Congressional Delegation to pursue all diplomatic means to cease the violence and find a pathway to a lasting peace in Gaza. We must pursue peace and end violence here at home and around the world.