Kiwassa Call for Gaza Ceasefire
Kiwassa’s Statement Calling for Ceasefire in Gaza
Kiwassa Neighbourhood House and its Board of Directors stand with members of the global public and international governments and organizations who have demanded a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. We are appreciative of these efforts in securing the current temporary ceasefire and are hopeful that it will extend into an ongoing ceasefire.
Our work as an organization is grounded in values of justice, respect, inclusion, courage, and place. Kiwassa’s vision is “A thriving community where all people are valued, connected, and secure.” Our organization is committed to Sanctuary City policies and principles. In alignment with our values and vision, we add our voices to the others who demand a continuation of the existing ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access to support civilian lives in Gaza.
“We live here,” is one of Kiwassa’s values – and we also recognize that the security and privilege of our lives here on unceded Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Səl̓ ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkwəy̓ əm (Musqueam) Nations are inextricably bound with global movements for peace and liberation.
We recognize the realities of increasing anti-Semitism, anti-Palestinian racism, and Islamophobia globally and in our own communities–and we unequivocally condemn all acts of racism. We believe a call for ceasefire is in alignment with our values.
This is a message to our community in support of your safety, the safety of your families and global connections, and to reinforce how Kiwassa’s mission reflects our organization’s commitments to universal human rights.
We understand that many in our community are impacted by the trauma of this conflict and are in need of culturally appropriate support and counselling. Please consider the following resources if you are in need of support:
- Muslim Therapists in BC
- Jewish Therapists in BC
- Jewish Family Service Agency – Mental Health & Counselling
- The Jewish Therapist Collective
- Healing in Colour – Racialized Therapist Directory
- Inclusive Therapists – Culturally Responsive Therapist Directory