Statement in support of Somerville for Palestine’s Ballot Initiative

The Black Response proudly supports Somerville for Palestine’s “Palestinian Solidarity Ballot Initiative” for many reasons.

First and foremost, we have always stood firmly with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement as a strategy to end the violent occupation, apartheid system, and ongoing genocide in Palestine. Our position is not new; it is consistent with our history of action, including our support for the 2021 Cambridge City Council order to divest from policing. Just as we have called for divestment from institutions that perpetuate violence here, we continue to call for divestment from systems that uphold violence and oppression abroad.

Second, we recognize and uplift Somerville for Palestine’s approach to organizing around this ballot initiative. Their commitment to canvassing neighborhoods, engaging everyday people in honest conversations, and providing political education about Palestine represents the kind of grassroots, people-powered movement building that The Black Response values. This work not only informs but also strengthens communities, ensuring that the struggle for Palestinian liberation is connected to broader struggles for justice.

Finally, we support this initiative as a meaningful act of solidarity. While we are not facing genocide here, we are confronting the rise of a fascist wannabe dictator and experiencing political repression and violence at levels not seen in our lifetimes. The stakes are urgent, and we understand that solidarity across movements is not optional. It is necessary. Standing with Palestine is standing against colonialism, militarism, and white supremacy everywhere. By supporting this ballot initiative, we join with others to push forward the fight for justice in Palestine while strengthening the collective fight for liberation in our own communities.

For us, this is not charity. It is solidarity. And solidarity, especially in times of deep crisis, is a commitment to shared struggle until all of us are free.