PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Food, music and Palestinian tradition filled the third annual Rhode Island Palestine Day in Providence, and the gathering doubled as a stage for the fight over Question 7, a city ballot measure voters will decide on Nov. 3.
An organizer described the day as a way to support Palestinians living abroad and in Gaza and to make sure their culture is seen and heard.
Question 7 asks Providence voters whether the city should pull its money out of foreign countries found to be carrying out severe human rights abuses including genocide, apartheid, ethnic cleansing or an illegal occupation. The measure also reaches corporations that knowingly help enable those abuses. It would apply to all funds under the city’s board of investment commissioners, including the retirement system, and a simple majority is needed to pass it.
Democratic mayoral nominee David Morales attended the event and backs the measure. He argued it would let Providence take a public stand on human rights with a sense of moral clarity.
The head of a statewide Jewish community organization opposes it. He has raised concerns about the financial effect on the city and the impact on its residents, arguing the measure would do nothing to ease suffering overseas and would instead single out Providence residents who identify with one part of the world through their faith and identity.
Supporters say the measure is about making sure the city’s investments line up with its values. Early voting is already open ahead of Election Day.
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Filed under: Providence RI Politics News
