West Hollywood Council Member Chelsea Byers posted a brief Instagram story addressing the loss of life in the recent war between Hamas and Israel.
The post this evening breaks her silence, which was duly noted by her critics after Mayor Sepi Shyne, Mayor Pro-Tem John Erickson, and council member Lauren Meister each posted personal messages of support for Israel shortly after news broke that Hamas militants launched coordinated attacks on as many as 22 locations situated outside the Gaza Strip on Saturday, taking hundreds of lives and holding several women and children hostage this past Saturday.
“Grieving the immense loss of life and escalating war,” reads her Instagram story. “Violence will never lead to peace. My heart is with families suffering the loss of loved ones and fearing for their safety.”
The message suggests she’s grieving for the loss of life on both sides, a neutral sentiment that may not sit well with her detractors.
Council member John Heilman has yet to make a statement on the conflict. He’s rarely on social media–in fact his last Facebook post dates back to December 19, 2022. His last posts reads. “Thanks to everyone for attending my celebration Friday night! It was wonderful to see you all. Tonight I start my new term on West Hollywood City Council. Stay in touch and stay engaged. Running this city is a team effort!”
The City of West Hollywood posted an official statement on Monday standing in solidarity with Israel and its people:
She should resign. That statement says nothing. She does not belong in any leadership position.
Israel: Women were disproportionately singled out because of their gender and used as weapons of war. They were mass raped, kidnapped, mutilated, paraded through Gaza naked and murdered. Elderly women were kidnapped and murdered in Gaza. Female babies had their heads cut off.
Chelsea Byers: Thoughts and prayers
Why are you pinning thoughts and prayers on Chelsea, when it’s literally then entire world? What do you want or expect her to do? You people are sick. Get a hobby.
I would guess that Council member Heilman will make his statement at the next council meeting. And, I imagine he stands with Israel. He may also feel sad for the loss of all lives perpetrared by Hamas, a terrorist organization. For some people saying into a camera is more important than posting it.
You would guess. He gets a free pass to take his time and address the issue at his leisurely pace because it’s real hard to address his followers on his social media. It’s not like he doesn’t know how to use that platform. He was very connected when he ran for council. Your misogyny is showing.
Not everyone thinks social media is great. Some are not big fans of Suckernerg or Musk.
Don’t confuse your opinions with reality.
As usual, when she speaks, she says nothing.
She said a lot more than what we’ve heard from Heilman. But the rules are different when it comes to a man. Got it.