I am writing to acknowledge your recent correspondence regarding the AIPAC dinner.  I apologize for the delay in responding, but the Governor's repeal of the VLF increase created a budget crisis that required my immediate attention. 

As mayor, I attend dozens of events every month.  My attendance of any particular event does not imply my endorsement of an organization's specific policy agenda.

I want you to know that I personally support a two state solution so that Israelis and Palestinians can live side-by-side in peace.  I do not believe the interests of peace are served by the City of Berkeley aligning itself with either side in this ongoing dispute.

I appreciate your sincere concerns.

 Sincerely,

Tom Bates

Response: 

I appreciate that the Mayor has responded; however I think it falls short.  I do think his appearance at such an event is itself lending credibility to its message of support for unconditional U.S. funding of a military occupation. 

Bates states: “I do not believe the interests of peace are served by the City of Berkeley aligning itself with either side in this ongoing dispute.”  That is not what we are asking. AIPAC does take sides; it says that one ethnic group is to be valued over the rights of another group.  We say that we want our leaders be on the side of human rights, of justice for everyone.  That is why Mr. Bates failure to support an independent investigation of Rachel Corrie’s death is such a tragedy, a missed opportunity to stand for human rights.   

Yet I will, at the moment, presume that he truly meant this: “attendance of any particular event does not imply my endorsement of an organization's specific policy agenda.”  Alright, then let us see Mayor Bates attend an affair where real solutions to the conflict are discussed, based on international law.    Mayor Bates attendance at such an event would be an example of openness and willingness to listen to all points of view.   

Further communication with the Mayor is needed.  At the very least, ask him to commit himself to listening to an alternative point of view.  We will also ask him to consider carefully before attending another AIPAC event.  Our elected officials here in Berkeley cannot expect to have a comfortable night on the town when they attend galas for militarism and occupation, despite any claims of impartiality. 
 

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