International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is an opportunity to draw attention to the ongoing plight of Palestinians, advocating for their legitimate rights, and promoting a just and lasting peace in the region. Recognized by the United Nations, this observance stresses the importance of fostering dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians, as well as offering support for broader international efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The day also seeks to raise global awareness about the unresolved issues surrounding the Palestinian territories and the urgency of finding a peaceful solution.

The UN declared the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in 1977 as a response to growing tension and conflict. Canada has long advocated for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, including supporting a two-state solution whereby Israel and a future Palestinian state would coexist in peace and security. In recent years, Canada has contributed millions of dollars in humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, as well as engaging in various capacity-building initiatives, working closely with international partners to address the socio-economic challenges faced by the Palestinian people.

In Canada, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed through various government statements, public discussions, and events that spotlight the Palestinian cause. Organizations and community groups across the country host cultural events, political discussions, and fundraisers to support Palestinian communities and promote awareness about the ongoing issues of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It's important to note that the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed not just in Canada but globally on November 29th, underscoring the widespread support and recognition of this significant day.

Facts about this observance

• In 1947, the U.N General Assembly adopted resolution 181, also known as the Partition Resolution. This resolution aimed to establish an independent Jewish state, Palestine, and an independent Arab state, Israel. Palestine has since been recognized by 138 U.N members and has achieved non-member observer status in the U.N.
• There are over 7 million Palestinians living in exile according to the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Many reside in refugee camps in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
• The Palestinian population in Canada has grown significantly since the 1960s, especially following the Arab-Israeli war of 1967 (Six-Day War), and subsequent waves of Palestinian immigration, most notably after the 1980s and 1990s. As a result, the Canadian Palestinian population is estimated to be around 60,000-80,000 people today.
• Many Palestinian Canadians are bilingual or multilingual, speaking a combination of Arabic, English, and French. They often try to keep their language and cultural heritage alive through community events and cultural organizations.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Explore a timeline of Palestine's history. Visit Timeline for more details.
• Watch The Wanted 18 (2014). This documentary reveals the true story of 18 dairy cows becoming a symbol of resistance during the First Palestinian Intifada when a Palestinian village decided to buy cows for local production and challenged the Israeli military occupation.
• Offer your time and skills to local organizations that work in support of Palestinian rights. Many organizations in Canada provide assistance and resources to Palestinians, both on the ground and by advocating for their rights. If possible, consider making a donation to support their work.