An Israeli tank near the border with Gaza, Nov. 28, 2023. Photo by Amir Levy/Getty Images)
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton on Tuesday released a joint statement with religious, civic and business leaders in Kentucky’s second-largest city appealing for peace in Gaza and Israel and respect for a diversity of views at home.
Gorton, Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers and a group of Jewish, Muslim and Palestinian leaders in Lexington have been working on the statement since October, according to a release from Gorton’s office.
In addition to calling for peace in Gaza and Israel, the statement expresses “a united stance” to “keep Lexington peaceful, and all of its residents safe “at a time when there have been extremist attacks on Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities around the country.”
“Lexington is saying ‘not here’,” Gorton said.
Ten members of the Urban County Council have signed the statement. Business, faith, education, and civic leaders have also voiced their support, said the release.
Lexington residents are invited to sign he statement by sending their name and address to [email protected]. Residents are welcome to include the organization they represent.
The statement follows:
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