The meeting was primarily focused on this single agenda item. The resolution, proposed by Council member Yousef J. Saleh, aimed to express Jersey City’s unwavering opposition to hatred and racism, call for more resources to combat rising cases of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, and advocate for a permanent ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Council members Amy M. DeGise, James Solomon, Daniel Rivera, and Joyce E. Watterman abstained from voting, citing the divisive nature of the resolution and the need for unity among City communities. Council members Denise Ridley and Mira Prinz-Arey were absent from the meeting.

Council member Saleh, who is of Palestinian descent, passionately defended the resolution. He emphasized that while the resolution may not directly influence International diplomacy, it was about giving the Jewish and Palestinian communities a voice and emphasizing the city’s condemnation of violence and prejudice.

Council member Frank E. Gilmore also voted in favor of the resolution, stating his desire to end violence on all sides. Council member Richard Boggiano advocated for the formation of a committee or task force to bridge the gaps between the various groups involved.