FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 14, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Garriga | [email protected]
Susan Sarandon Joins CODEPINK in Ceasefire Sit-In Targeting AIPAC-Aligned Elected Officials
WASHINGTON – Renowned actress and outspoken activist Susan Sarandon is set to join CODEPINK and allied peace organizations on Capitol Hill this Thursday, February 15. Sarandon’s visit comes just after the much-anticipated Senate vote on the $95 billion supplemental, including $14 billion to Israel. Sarandon, like many other Americans, is appalled that the Senate is trying to send more weapons to Israel in the midst of a genocide, and is trying to stop the from passing on the House side.
The advocacy day aims to amplify the voices of the majority of Americans who oppose sending more of their tax dollars to Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza. Sarandon, a long-time advocate for peace and justice, joins CODEPINK's ongoing efforts in Congress, including being a daily presence in Congressional offices demanding that congresspeople stop sending our tax dollars to Israel and instead call for a ceasefire.
“As a mother & grandmother, I can’t bear watching the ongoing suffering of the mothers in Gaza, especially knowing that we in the US are paying for the weapons that are killing them and their families. I say to Congress: stop supporting this genocide, call for a permanent ceasefire and the resuming of humanitarian aid through UNRWA,” said Saradon.
Hailing from New York, the award-winning actress has asked for meetings with New York Representatives Richie Torres and Hakeem Jeffries. All are closely linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a powerful pro-Israel lobbying group, and have received enormous contributions from pro-Israel special interest groups, with Torres getting $1,184,374 and Jeffries, $1,261,753. As of Tuesday afternoon, Jeffries' office had declined the request to meet and representatives from Torres had not responded.
Where: Rayburn House Office Building
When: Thursday, Feb. 15 starting at 1pm ET
If not granted a meeting, Sarandon and the other advocates are prepared to stage a sit-in at these offices to underscore the urgency of their message. The sit-in will occur around 2pm ET.
During her time in Washington, D.C., Sarandon also plans to engage with progressive caucus members who have already voiced their support for a cessation of hostilities. Her involvement adds to a growing chorus of celebrity voices calling for an end to the violence in Gaza.
Videos from the action will be available here!
Photos from the action will be available here!
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact Melissa at [email protected].
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