The state budget process in Ohio this year was long, confusing, and frankly one of the cruelest examples of how far our legislature will go to score points with their political base while simultaneously screwing over people in our state. We’ll have more to share about the final version of the bill next week. But recently some news was released that stopped us in our tracks: the final version of the state budget gave the Department of Children and Youth less funding for various programs and certain goals were having to be adjusted.  

One of the goals listed for adjustment was Ohio’s dismal infant mortality rate. Under the initial version of the budget proposed by Governor DeWine, their goal was to reduce the rate from 7.1 per 1,000 births to 4.4 per 1,000 births. But because of the cuts the legislature made to the Governor’s budget, that goal was instead reduce from 7.1 to 6 deaths per 1,000 births. The so-called “pro-life” party reduced program funding to the point where the department had to reduce the number of lives that could be saved. How “pro-life” of them! 

I have no idea what kind of human being you are. What kind of conscience do you possess that doesn't tremble at the sight of children starving in Gaza? No child should ever have to endure such brutality. No parent should have to cower in despair, knowing they cannot protect their children or provide for them. Kids go to sleep not knowing where the next meal comes from or if they will live another day.

You appear to the world with a cold face, denying famine and claiming there is no crisis there. But Gaza doesn't need your affirmation, Mr. Witkoff. Gaza is soaked in blood and tears and runs out of space for new graves. The images we receive daily on our screens are not rumors. The cries of mothers are not Hamas propaganda and children going to sleep without food are not numbers in a fake report. What you said is shameful, disgraceful, and lacks human decency.

Sunday, August 3, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Franklin County Municipal Court, 375 S. High Street, Columbus 43215

Join Central Ohio Jews for Justice and interfaith partners and community organizations to observe the traditional day of mourning, Tisha b’Av. Sunday, August 3rd from 4 - 5 pm, 375 South High Street. We will gather outside the Franklin County Municipal Court which is allowing ICE agents into the court. We will be mourning the destruction enacted on our neighbors by our own government, and hearing from our partner organizations including calls to action. United States anti-immigration forces are carrying out campaigns of terror in the name of Jewish safety, which makes all of us less safe.

We speak out against the false use of Jewish safety to justify unjustifiable violence, from the destruction of Gaza to threats against our immigrant neighbors. Optional RSVP - link below - if you will be attending and would like to stay in touch for future events.

RSVP or send questions to Centralohiojewsforjustice@gmail.com.