FAO: Early Years Sector
We are writing in relation to the current period of vilence and coflict in Isrel and Palstine.
We condemn the abhorrent terrorist actions of Hmas and the attack of innocent ciilians in Isrel on October 7th 2023. Equally, we condemn the current breaking of international law, committed as the Israeli government order the forcible transfer of a population, after shutting off food, water and supplies amounting to collective punishment. As this conflict further escalates, we are increasingly witnessing atrocities including the murder of children and families. Our sector will not only have exposure to this, but will be directly and indirectly impacted by the events. We are also concerned about the increase in Islmophobia and antsemtism.
We have collectivised to write to our local MPs, asking them to call on the government to denounce the w*r crimes committed and we are engaging in a number of activities to help cultivate support and understanding, but wen are concerned that we are yet to receive statements or guidance from our key sector organisations.
As early years educators, we are writing to ask whether your organisation will (a) publicly write to the British government to call on them to support international human rights law and end any military action which could result in the death of innocent civilians in Gaa? And (b) In what ways will our sector be guided through this in regards to safeguarding, wellbeing and navigating the trauma that these events will elicit. Will your organisation stand with The United Nations, and publicly write to the government to call for the strict respect of international humanitarian law and its provisions, including unrestricted humanitarian access to those in need, the cessation of indiscriminate attacks against civilians, and an end to forced displacement of populations and blokade?
As early years educators, we are trying to adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, for example, Article 6 (the right to life, survival and development) and Article 19 (protection from violence, abuse or neglect).
To adhere to these principles, we cannot continue to operate at individualised levels and we have been spurred to write to you as there appears to be absence of collective action and guidance as we witness these atrocities. We need our sector to speak up on global incidents such as this, where international and human rights law is breached.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Early Years Educators, Teachers and Childminders.
With special thanks to the professionals who have provided guidance, templates and support in producing this letter (VS, TT, CB and LP)