Revelstoke rallies for Palestinians

Local group Humanity in Revelstoke and supporters rallied together at Grizzly Plaza Saturday, July 26 in the latest showing of solidarity for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Waving flags, banging pots and holding signs reading “honk for Gaza,” “stop starving Gaza” and more, supporters cheered on passersby who honked cars, rang bells and even pulled train whistles.

“From fellow protestors to car honks, passersby to train passengers frantically waving from the Rocky Mountaineer, thank you to everyone who joined in to speak out for Palestine,” Humanity in Revelstoke wrote on socials.

With few counter protesters in attendance and a steady stream of newcomers joining in for short periods, the protest remained peaceful alongside the Revelstoke Farm & Craft Market throughout the day.

“Do not engage in any conflicts with those who may oppose our actions,” Humanity in Revelstoke wrote to supporters announcing details of the protest, explaining that any heated actions or words could distract from the main focus of rallying support for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

“This protest is our grief turned into action,” Humanity in Revelstoke wrote to Revelstoke Mountaineer following the July 26 protest. “For anyone who may be feeling distraught or helpless witnessing the siege and forced starvation of Gaza: You are not alone. And you are not powerless. Keep pushing to stop the genocide in Palestine. Call and write to our reps, donate, boycott, help us organize. Change starts with ordinary people refusing to accept injustice.”

The protest was a response to Bisan Owda’s recent call to action and the latest in a series of projects the local support group has taken on. Recently Humanity in Revelstoke raised over $1,100 in donations for the Sameer Project through a screening of No Other Land, a collectively made Palestinian-Israeli documentary, as well as over $1,160 for the Gaza Sunbirds Aid Program through GoByBike week where the team ranked in the top five in Revelstoke.

One of the most recent additions of support is a community Farmstand for Palestine at 510 Ninth St. East. Donated bouquets, baked goods, crafts and other items are frequently added for purchase by donation with proceeds going to Doctors Without Borders. Within the first week of operating, the farmstand raised over $2,000. Food items not sold at the farmstand are donated to the local food bank regularly.

Humanity in Revelstoke will host an event to rebuild  a support vigil at Oscar Street and Leach Street that was recently vandalized.

“For over a year, we tried to create a safe space to learn and engage about Palestine. But you do not need to be an expert to speak up for what is right. All life is sacred and every single human being is deserving of life and dignity,” Humanity in Revelstoke wrote to Revelstoke Mountaineer.

Community members are invited to join with art materials provided on site. All ages are welcome to attend, the event runs 6 p.m. to 9 p.m on Wednesday, Aug. 6.