War on Gaza: Muslim Community Slams Canadian City Council’s Bias
“We, Arab and Muslim communities in Brantford, write to express our profound disappointment and frustration with the recent actions and declarations by the city council of Brantford,” Naser Hamed, president of the Muslim Association of Brantford, said in a letter to city council. “It came as a shock and disbelief to us that during the council’s discussions, a pronounced bias was exhibited towards the situation in Israel, with a palpable neglect of the dire circumstances in Gaza.”
Hamed said the association unequivocally stands for peace, justice and the sanctity of life.
“The world we foresee is one where every individual, regardless of their background, faith, or nationality, can live in peace and security. In light of recent events in Palestine, we feel compelled to express our deep concern and sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, Muslims, or Jews,” Hamed said.
He said they condemn “unlawful killings of civilians.”
“Such acts are not only morally reprehensible but also undermine the foundations of humanity and all Abrahimic religions, he said.
Hamed’s letter comes about a week after city councillors, at a committee meeting, condemned the attacks on Israel by Hamas.
The resolution, which will come before council for approval on Oct. 24, condemns the actions of Canadian residents who publicly celebrated the attacks by Hamas. It calls also for Canada to consider financial aid for Israel to replenish depleted stocks of defensive anti-missile systems.
The resolution also calls for the lights at city hall to be illuminated with the colours of the Israeli flag until the cessation of hostilities.
“Historically, Brantford has been a place of unity, where various communities have come together to show support during global crises,” Hamed said.
“However, the recent actions by the city council have left our community feeling alienated and marginalized.”
“This not only alienates a significant portion of the community but also creates an environment where expressing solidarity with Palestine might lead to dire consequences of anti-Palestinian racism and anti-Arab racism,” Hamed said.
The association is appealing to city council to reflect on its actions and consider the broader implications of community harmony impacting the relationship of Palestinian, Arab and Muslim Communities with the city, Hamed said.
“We call upon all parties in conflict regions and areas of tension to prioritize the protection of civilians, to adhere to international laws and standards, and to seek fair resolutions to the disputes,” Hamed said.
The Palestinian Association of Brantford has quickly organized a demonstration this weekend “to plead with the leadership at Brantford City Hall to reconsider their stance” and become advocates for a fair and just resolution to the conflict.
“We firmly believe that the city council can play a pivotal role in raising awareness, influencing policies and fostering change,” said an announcement.
The rally will take place at city hall on Oct. 22 at 1 p.m. with a push to both stop the Gaza war and to urge city council to reconsider its resolution.
“Getting involved in political conflicts is not the place of city hall,” said the protest announcement.
“This will result in division in the community.”
Source: stratfordbeaconherald.com
