Pro-Palestine advocates are increasing the pressure on local politicians as the Israel-Hamas war stemming from Oct. 7 attacks by the Hamas group continues.

Earlier this week, a candlelight vigil was held in downtown Fresno where activists joined a growing call for a ceasefire in the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip. More than 150 people attended and called on Fresno-area elected officials to support Palestinians.

According to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, children make up nearly half of the 13,000 people killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza since the start of the conflict.

U.S. cities such as Oakland and Richmond in California; Detroit, Michigan; Atlanta, Georgia; Akron, Ohio; Wilmington, Delaware; and Providence, Rhode Island have passed resolutions calling for a stop to the war in the Gaza Strip.

Reverend Simon Biasell, the head pastor of the Big Red Church in Fresno, said at the rally “Not another nickel, not another dime shall be used of our tax money to bomb innocent children.”

Critics in Fresno say responses from local leaders have been slim. Mayor Jerry Dyerhas been criticized for raising the Israeli flag, making insensitive comments as well as not engaging with the Palestinian community.

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