Editor:
I am shocked and appalled by what is currently happening in Israel and Palestine – and oh, so very angry. Not at the individuals on the ground, but at the political leaders all around the world who have stood silent or been complicit in creating the current explosive situation. There’s plenty of blame to go around, and violations of human rights left, right and centre – many going back decades.
The only positive response I can think of is to have a march for peace and human rights. Not supporting or excusing either side but to speak up for all human rights and try in some small way to hold “our” government to account. Standing up for what should be in the world. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” It’s hard amid so much sorrow to not increase the darkness, but I believe that we on the Sunshine Coast can hold up a flame, together.
I invite you to join me next Saturday, Oct. 21 in the early afternoon. Those who can march are invited to gather at the Davis Bay pier at 1:45 p.m., to set off along the waterfront at 2 p.m. Those who can only stand or sit for peace and human rights are invited to join us in the parking lot of Living Faith Lutheran at 2:45 p.m. for a few speakers, singing, and sharing signs of hope with one another. Even if you don’t feel you know much about what is happening, but want to learn more, you are most welcome. Please email [email protected] with any questions, or if you are available, to help with organizing.
Leave hatred behind, but bring your sorrow, your questions, your hopes, and let’s stand together. And call on our governments to work towards peace and human rights for all. There are Israelis and Palestinians standing together, even in the “Holy Land”; supporting each other, mourning together, and crying out for justice. Can we do any less?
Peace,
Katryn Harris
