We at NPCA do not condone civilian deaths in any form, and we mourn the lost lives of the Israelis and Palestinians killed in last week’s attacks.
“No matter how many bombs we drop, no matter how skillfully our soldiers fight, we are not responding to the ultimate challenge until we show the world how and why we must all learn to live in peace, until peace becomes the only permanent alternative to war.”
– Sargent Shriver | New Haven, CT | November 10, 2001
At this moment of shock and sorrow, and with the looming prospect of greater loss of life, we are grief-stricken by the horrific and heart-wrenching terrorist attacks that occurred on October 7, 2023. These terrorist attacks in the region led to an escalation of violence, involving the deaths of many innocent Israeli and Palestinian civilians and the abduction of innocent hostages, including children and the elderly.
This was an act of terrorism, launched on the major Jewish holiday of Sukkot. What should have been a quiet weekend of rest has turned into days of unspeakable terror and shock. The violence is deeply disturbing, especially as the fate of the hostages remains unknown. We at the National Peace Corps Association (NPCA) stand firm in our commitment to world peace, and we urge leaders to take action in support of the collective condemnation this violence deserves and requires.
The foundation of NPCA is built on peace. We understand that the history and trauma surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is incredibly emotional on both sides. However, NPCA will never support the violence seen in these attacks. As we join all who care about the future of humanity — in mourning those who were brutally murdered, we rededicate ourselves to taking our powerful message about the dangers of antisemitism and racism to audiences from all walks of life and all parts of the world.
In moments like this it is even more important that we treat one another with compassion and kindness. We continue to hope, in this shattered moment, for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, the safe return of those held hostage, healing and care for the wounded, and comfort for those who are grieving the loss of someone they love.