Six Fresno residents are taking part in a nationwide “Fast for Gaza” movement, limiting their intake to just 250 calories a day to mirror what many in Gaza have reportedly been surviving on amid ongoing conflict.

A week ago, about 20 people gathered outside the Federal Courthouse at Tulare and O streets in Fresno as part of the effort, said Stan Santos, a local participant and advocate. He said they plan to return for another fast and gathering from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, at the same location.

The action is organized by Raza Against War and Fresno Veterans for Peace Chapter 180. The local demonstration is in solidarity with others around the country who are calling for an end to violence and starvation in Gaza, especially affecting children and families.

Santos, who has been on the fast for a week, said he has lost 12 pounds and has had to cut back on his consulting work due to the physical toll.

“I have felt my muscles starting to spasm because of the fast,” he said. “I have fasted before but it has never been this dramatic.”

He emphasized that many people in Gaza are subsisting on an average of 250 calories a day — far below the recommended U.S. daily intake of more than 2,000 calories — which inspired the fasters’ dietary limits.

Participants say their goal is to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis and demand an end to what they describe as a campaign of enforced starvation and violence.

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