After consulting with the wider Sangha about ongoing events in the Israel/Gaza conflict, the NBMC Board met on February 22, 2024 to adopt the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the Buddhist precepts include the precept to abstain from killing and Buddhist teaching calls us to honor the dignity of all human beings,
WHEREAS, the United Nations reports that more than 1,200 Israelis and more than 26,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed since October 7 and more than 75% of the Palestinians in Gaza have been displaced;
WHEREAS, the United Nations reports that Palestinians in Gaza are facing an “unparalleled humanitarian crisis” with only limited access to food, water, fuel and medical supplies; that famine is imminent and medical care insufficient;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Sangha of the Northfield Buddhist Meditation Center join people of all faiths, major humanitarian organizations and multiple U.S. city councils in urging the President of the United States and our U.S. Congressional delegation to join us in calling for:
- An immediate and permanent ceasefire;
- The immediate implementation of the transfer of aid to the Gaza Strip sufficient to sustain the lives of the Palestinians living there;
- The immediate and unconditional release of all civilian hostages and political prisoners.
Northfield Buddhist Meditation Center 