As conflicts in Palestine come to a dramatic, and violent, climax, a group of Palestinians and youth allies are gathering for a rally on the lawn of the BC Parliament Building today.
On Thursday, May 20th, at 5 p.m., Palestinians are gathering to raise awareness, show solidarity, and protest Canada’s military exports to Israel, according to a release.
Israel is in its second consecutive week of airstrikes on the Gaza strip, southwest of Israel.
The latest escalation in violence began after days of clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound.
The Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem’s Old City is one of Islam’s most revered locations.
On May 10th, Hamas, the de facto government of Palestine, as well as a group considered a terrorist organization by Canada, fired long-range rockets toward Jerusalem, with most being intercepted or falling short.
In response, Israel has been targeting Hamas’ military leaders in the Gaza Strip with overhead air strikes, thus killing innocent Palestinians in the process.
The Gaza Health Ministry says at least 227 Palestinians have been killed, including 64 children, with 1,620 people wounded and over 58,000 displaced.
Israel has reported 12 deaths, including a five-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl.
Government data shows Canada sent $13.7-million in military goods and technology to Israel in 2019.
This month, on May 12th, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh condemned the federal government for “arming one side of the conflict,” while Prime Minister Trudeau said his government was following the situation with “grave concern.”
Organizers have stated that the rally for Palestine is a global human rights issue, not just a Palestinian problem.
“This is a global human rights issue consisting of ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, illegal occupation and settler colonialism,” said the media release.
“This not a protest to divide the community nor enforce anti-Semitic rhetoric but to unite us to champion human rights. Anti-semitic behaviour, remarks and signage will not be tolerated at this peaceful protest.”
As of this publication, Israel and Palestine agreed upon a ceasefire.
Rally for Palestine
- Where: BC Legislature lawn
- When: Thursday, May 20th at 5:00 p.m.
