Oshkosh, WI: Community activists say no to local company's contract with Israeli military
Oshkosh, WI – In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, over a dozen passionate community members gathered outside Oshkosh Defense on Saturday, October 21, expressing their vehement opposition to the company's contract with the Israeli Occupation Forces.
The protest sent a clear message that the people of Oshkosh and the Fox Valley stand against the production of Eitan Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) destined for Israel's ground invasion of Gaza.
The Eitan APCs, which Oshkosh Defense does and is slated to continue manufacturing, have raised concerns due to their potential use in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Activists and community members believe that the deal not only exacerbates tensions in the region but also runs counter to principles of peace and justice, furthering the violent actions of the apartheid Israeli state.
The protest was organized by the Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO) with support from Students for a Democratic Society, and United Action Oshkosh.
With Palestinian flags waving and a large banner unfurled, the gathered community members were met with multiple shows of support from the passing public. FRSO member Rob Logeson read a prepared statement, and the people called back with unified chants of solidarity. With the escalation of violence against Palestine, more actions could be on the horizon if Oshkosh Defense continues to do business with the genocidal apartheid regime of Israel.