Letters: Amid protests by my fellow college students, I'm calling for ceasefire in Gaza.

As we see student protests and encampments popping up at universities around the country, I write as a fellow college student to express my support for an immediate permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Since Oct. 7 we have seen death tolls rise while mass destruction, hate and disinformation abound.

I urge Sens. Mike Braun and Todd Young and Rep. Rudy Yakym to immediately and publicly call for a permanent ceasefire and oppose the transfer of more weapons of war which would only serve to intensify this already terrible conflict.

As lawmakers, they must prioritize the safety and well-being of all civilians, which can only be done when there is no threat of bombings or invasion. More war and violence is not the answer. We must stand up for the dignity of all people, which should undoubtedly include the right to live with access to clean water, food and proper safety at the bare minimum. Only once the shooting stops can we finally address the root causes of the conflict.

Kate Jackowski

University of Notre Dame student

Peaceful coexistence

The Morris Performing Arts Center’s recent touring production of the Disney musical "Aladdin" was truly enchanting. But it was “A Whole New World” outside the theater. While walking to and from our car, my wife and I were terrorized by loud music from numerous drivers.

Through the decades, I have engaged with multiple St. Joseph County residents and public officials about effective strategies to reduce noise pollution, but apparently to no avail.

Peaceful coexistence should be a top priority of every community, of which strong noise abatement is key. Here’s to a healthy, safe and happy environment.

Bob Kronemyer

Elkhart

Splitting hairs

The votes had been counted and recounted. The result had been litigated, over 60 times, unsuccessfully. The votes had been certified by all 50 states. The Electoral College had met and voted. In all legal respects, the election was over. At this point, no elected official had any business continuing to contest the results. And yet, Donald Trump did. Then, he exhorted his followers to violently attack the Capitol, in an attempt to unlawfully retain power. We all saw it unfold before our eyes, yet the Supreme Court now splits hairs, as if they are arguing about how many angels can dance on the head of a pin.

Jerry Steffens

Mishawaka

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Letter writers on Gaza ceasefire, noise, low-barrier shelters.