Finally, Canada is speaking clearly about the atrocities inflicted on the people of Gaza by the Israeli military.
On February 14, the prime ministers of Australia, Canada and New Zealand issued the following statement on reports of Israel’s planned military operation in Rafah, in the Gaza strip.
“We are gravely concerned by indications that Israel is planning a ground offensive into Rafah. A military operation into Rafah would be catastrophic. About 1.5 million Palestinians are taking refuge in the area, including many of our citizens and their families. With the humanitarian situation in Gaza already dire, the impacts on Palestinian civilians from an expanded military operation would be devastating. We urge the Israeli government not to go down this path. There is simply nowhere else for civilians to go.”
It seems that Prime Minister Netanyahu has no intention of heeding these leaders. Still we must not allow such violence to go unchallenged.
On Sunday, Feb. 25, from 2 to 4 p.m., concerned citizens of Salmon Arm will attend Gathering for Peace in Gaza, at First United Church. Our guest speakers include Dr. Warren Bell, putting the current crisis in Gaza into its historical context; the Ghattas family talking about their lived experience as Palestinians; Anne Morris clarifying International Law in this context; Kristine Wickner and Koryn Devries – Canadian Response to the War in Gaza; and Rev. Erik Bjorgen bringing a faith perspective to the conversation. Music leadership is by Jim McConnell and Juanita Austin.
The event includes fundraising for UNRWA and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, and some lovely raffle prizes to win. There will also be a petition to sign asking the city council to press for a ceasefire. We will end by sharing in refreshments and conversation.
This event is supported by KAIROS – an Ecumenical Peace and Justice group and CJPME – Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East.
Juanita Austin