‘We Charge You With Genocide’: Thousands of Pro-Palestinian Protesters Rally at Texas Capitol to Demand Cease-Fire

Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters rallied at the Texas state Capitol in Austin on Sunday, demanding a cease-fire and condemning Governor Greg Abbott’s support for Israel after Hamas invaded and massacred its civilians on October 7.

“Abbott, Abbott, you can’t hide. We charge you with genocide,” demonstrators chanted. “From Palestine to Mexico, the walls have got to go,” the crowd also demanded.

The governor went on a solidarity visit to Israel and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in early November, underscoring Texas’ support for the Jewish State. “Texas has always, and will always, support Israel and the Israeli people,” Abbott said in a statement released after his official trip. “During this trip, I saw firsthand the resilient spirit of the Israeli people,” he continued.

“Texas will continue to help support Israel safeguard their freedom against brutal terrorist organizations like Hamas.”

In October, Abbott earmarked over $4 million to dozens of Jewish communities in Texas to enhance safety measures amid growing concerns of domestic antisemitism. Since the war broke out, the state government has purchased at least $65 million in Israel bonds to buoy the beleaguered country’s finances as the conflict enters its sixth week. The state comptroller released a report two weeks ago noting that Texas has invested annually in such financial instruments since 1994 and now holds at least $140 million worth of Israel bonds.

“Our tax dollars should stay here for the prosperity of our own children, not for the death and destruction of impoverished children halfway around the world,” one demonstrator told the Texas Tribune. “We need to clarify misconceptions about what is happening in the Middle East,” another protester told the outlet. “We want people to realize that the U.S. policy is not fair towards Palestine.”

Last Wednesday, four state House Democrats sent a letter to party chair Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa demanding he implore President Joe Biden to push for a ceasefire.

“The longer this conflict persists, the more innocent civilians will bear the brunt of its devastating consequences. It is our moral and humanitarian obligation to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. A ceasefire is the first step towards bringing about the much-needed calm that can pave the way for dialogue and peaceful resolution,” the letter reads.  “We urge you to ask President Biden and his administration to work towards a ceasefire and intensify his efforts to secure additional humanitarian aid for the Gaza population.”