The two hundredth day since the terrorist assault by Hamas is approaching. An assault that was characterized by rape and sexual assault along with almost every other kind of violent offense. The targeting of female victims with sexual violence has been confirmed not only by investigation after the fact but by the gleeful posts of terrorist offenders shared during this crime against humanity.

Rape is not resistance.

We write to you as women of privilege and power. We demand that you call for the immediate, unconditional release of all remaining female hostages and the bodies of those female captives that are no longer alive. The reports of freed female hostages confirm that this violation of the bodies of the female hostages is ongoing. Silence in the face of rape and sexual assault is complicity. Discussions of “trading” hostages for others is degrading to all women and people of conscience.

The coming of the Jewish holiday of Passover as well as the ongoing military support for Hamas by the Iranian regime, an autocracy that rejects the autonomy and agency of women, provide additional clarity.

We call upon you to speak up clearly and forcefully. The captivity of these victims of sexual violence must end immediately. Whether abroad or here in Canada, victims of rape and sexual assault must know that those with power hear their voices.

RELATED: Watch Rabbi Michael Dolgin's sermon where he addresses the ongoing plight of female captives at the hands of Hamas terrorists. https://youtu.be/wpJa6tkZ768

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