Our Story

Problem Statement

Peace Action Montgomery categorically supports all human rights, but the Palestinian rights are a particular priority because of the US involvement (and money to support) the Israeli occupation. In addition, the conflict has destabilized the Middle East region and created adversarial relationships there. In other words, it has served as a foundation for the Middle East wars.

Lastly, there have been concerted efforts to attack nonviolent approaches to end the Israeli Occupation and proliferation of settlements. Most specifically, this has been efforts by the Federal government and States, including Maryland, to criminalize the Boycott, Sanctions and Divestment (BDS) movement against the Israeli Occupation.

Our Work

Below are some of efforts to support Palestinian Human Rights

Legislation to Criminalize BDS — Peace Action Montgomery worked with other Maryland allies to thwart legislation in the Maryland General Assembly aimed at putting a chill effect on supporters of the Boycott, Sanctions and Divestment (BDS) movement. We were successful during three Assembly sessions. Unfortunately, lobbyists finally convinced the Governor to approve the anti-BDS initiative as an Executive Order.

Open Letter from Archbishop Desmond Tutu — The Nobel Laureate issued an open letter critical of the anti-BDS legislation. The letter was in response to a request from Maryland activists. In fact, the Archbishop singles out a Maryland Delegate for his rhetoric in support of the bill (comparing activists to Nazis).

Protection of Civilians and Peace Activists — For over a decade, Peace Action Montgomery has advocated to our Congressional Representatives to demand from the State Department reporting and accountability (withholding of military funding) in response to Israel’s assault against civilians (the Gaza assaults) and peace activists. These include attacks against peace activists such as Rachel Corrie, Tristan Anderson, Brian Avery and Emily Henochowicz. We were also outspoken about the attacks against the Freedom Flotilla which included a Montgomery County resident (Amb. Edward Peck) and the killing of nine people (including an American) on the Mavi Marmara.

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