April 26, 2024 (EIRNS)—In the often jaded and desensitized world of insider politics in Washington, a breath of humanity left a lasting impression. On April 25 a memorial service was given for the seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen (WCK) who were killed in three IDF air strikes on their convoy in Gaza on April 1. Over 560 guests, including U.S. Senators and foreign diplomats from 30 countries, attended the memorial at the Washington National Cathedral, which is used for state functions. A performance by cellist Yo-Yo Ma and an interfaith program in the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim traditions were given.
“They were the best of humanity,” said the tearful José Andrés, celebrity chef and founder of WCK. The usually exuberant Andrés nearly broke down as he spoke of each of the seven victims. He then acknowledged other aid workers who have been killed in Gaza. Andrés said that at the WCK, “We take risks because we want to change the world … food is a universal human right.” He asked the WCK workers in the audience to stand. “You are our light in the darkness,” he said, prompting an eruption of applause from the audience.
