A ceasefire-hostage deal has finally been reached, and with it comes an end to months of violence, horror, and needless suffering.

Since the horrific October 7th attack, families from the Middle East to the Massachusetts 7th have been grieving — for the 1,200 Israelis murdered by Hamas, for the tens of thousands of civilians killed in the genocide in Gaza unleashed by the Israeli military and aided by U.S. dollars, for the hostages yet to be reunited with their loved ones and those who have died in captivity, and for the death and destruction Palestinians have been subjected to for over a year.

Collectively, we have been calling for this moment for the past 15 months. A broad, diverse, and peaceful coalition made their voices heard in public squares and campuses around the nation. Local resolutions were passed with overwhelming support. Congregations and faith communities joined hands in praying for the victims of this unconscionable suffering.

This ceasefire-hostage deal is a welcome reprieve for the millions of Palestinians in Gaza, the families of Israeli hostages, and families of imprisoned Palestinians. This is the first step towards healing from the traumas endured and towards rebuilding Gaza.

A ceasefire is set to take place on Sunday, and last for 42 days. This deal must be honored and made permanent. There must be an end to the massacre of civilians and a surge of sending humanitarian aid. Hostages must be reunited with their loved ones, and forcibly displaced Palestinians must be allowed to return to their homes.

As our movement continues to watch this agreement unfold, and we continue to call for peace around the world, this is a reminder of the power of diplomacy. And I am devastated to say that it didn’t have to come to this. Thousands of lives could have been saved if all parties pursued a diplomatic solution sooner.

Today, I remain committed to advocating for a just and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. We must prioritize saving lives, and working together to prevent a horrific conflict like this from ever happening again.

Onward,

Ayanna