As the United States pushes for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, some Kansans hope to raise awareness on the conflict.
Dozens of protesters rallied in Wichita Sunday, and plan to continue to rally to support those killed — more than 500 Palestinians and 20 Israelis. Monday is considered one of the bloodiest days in the battle.
“To try to stop and get our voice as Americans to our government first and then to the world to stop the killing of civilians in Gaza,” said Hussam Madi of Wichita. “Make them aware of what is going on, where our tax money as American tax payers, where it’s going on a daily basis to a government that needs to be pressured to stop the killing of children with our tax money.”
Madi said the conflict has put children in the war zone. He and others, like Ebrahim Khlid, believe many people don’t realize the magnitude of what’s happening overseas.
“We want to raise global concern, global awareness that there is massacre and butcher going on and nobody seems to know about it or realize what’s going on, and we need to put an end to that,” he said.
Yet, for Talah Bakdash, the conflict isn’t a matter of Palestinians and Israelis. She cares about the people — no matter what the background or beliefs. She hopes the conflict will end soon.
“There are people from all religions, from all nations protesting this, so it’s not just Palestinians,” she said. “We just want peace. We don’t want any killing on any sides, so we’re here promoting peace.”