On Sunday, Feb. 25, several wonderful people helped inform and inspire the Salmon Arm community by seeking peace and an end to the genocide unfolding in Gaza.
At the Gathering for Peace in Gaza event, held at the Nexus at First, Dr. Warren Bell helped put the current crisis in Gaza into its historical context; Gabrielle and Sue Ghattas told of their own lived experience as part of a Palestinian household; Anne Morris talked about the role of international law, and where it was not being honoured; Kristine Wickner helped us look at the Canadian response to the war in Gaza, in light of our own history of colonization; Rev. Erik Bjorgen brought a faith perspective to the conversation; and Jim McConnell and Juanita Austin offered some music for folks to sing along with.
We raised some money for UNRWA and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, signed a petition to send to city council, shared information about good resources, made connections, and lots of people stayed and had great conversations over coffee and baklava.
The event was co-sponsored by KAIROS Canada, an ecumenical peace and justice group, and CJPME (Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East) Okanagan.
Rev. Juanita Austin
Read more: Letter: Concerned Salmon Arm citizens to host Gathering for Peace in Gaza