In the heart of Winnipeg, a sizable throng, speculated to number around 500, convened at the Asper Jewish Community Campus to voice their support for Israel amidst the ongoing violence in the Israel-Gaza war.
Donned in hues of blue and white, symbolic of unity and peace, attendees partook in the gathering known as the Israel Solidarity Rally. This demonstration of togetherness unfolded just days following a potent offensive led by Hamas militants against Israel.
Expressing gratitude for the upwelling of public goodwill, Gustavo Zentner, President of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, acknowledged the deep impact the news has had. He narrated, “Waking up on Saturday to the aftermath of a catastrophic terrorist onslaught has truly destabilized our community, Manitobans and Canadians alike.”
Zentner emphasized that the rally was not aimed at partisan politics, or to take sides in the conflict, but rather to collectively denounce the terror attacks. He noted that many in Manitoba have family members in Israel, some of whom are entangled in the clashes. The prevalent sentiment revolved around shared grief over the tragic loss of over 700 lives.
The congregation also stood united in support of those ensnared and held captive, such as Winnipeg-born peace activist Vivian Silver, who succumbed to the hands of Hamas militants. Expressing hope and resilience, Silver’s cousin said, “One can only hope that an individual with her degree of noble intentions can navigate through this crisis and resurface safe and sound.”
The escalating violence drew comments from local politicians as well, including Manitoba’s premier-designate Wab Kinew. “The violation of civilian safety in Israel is horrifying. Each nation, including Israel, has an indisputable right to protect its constituents and its sovereignty,” Kinew asserted, a sentiment echoed by Premier Heather Stefanson, and Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham who were also present at the rally.
Affirming Winnipeg’s solidarity with Israel, Mayor Scott Gillingham announced that Esplanade Riel would be festooned in blue and white, a beacon of support for Israel. Ensuring the safety and order during the rally, The Winnipeg Police Service also extended their surveillance.
The Jewish Federation of Winnipeg hearteningly reported ‘robust’ security arrangements for the rally, including heightened police presence and professional security details, a testimony to their commitment to the mobilization of peaceful and orderly demonstrations.
