Understanding Genocide: Islamic Relief Canada’s Stance on Palestine
At Islamic Relief Canada, we are committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of Palestinians as we respond to the the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As a humanitarian organization, we believe it is our moral duty to call attention to the situation for what it is: a genocide. Genocide is a term that is not used lightly. It is grounded in clear evidence of patterns of harm targeting civilians in a way that threatens their survival.
Calling out the genocide in Palestine stems from careful deliberation, drawing upon reports from the ground, expert analysis, and our deep commitment to truth, accountability and justice. By using this term, we aim to amplify the gravity of the situation and advocate for the protection of civilians, increased humanitarian access, and an end to the violence.
FAQs: Why We Use the Term Genocide
We understand that the term genocide carries weight, and many may have questions about its application in this context. Our FAQ section below addresses common queries, from what genocide means under international law to why Islamic Relief has chosen to use this language now.
Stories from the Ground
The numbers coming from the ground speak volumes, but the stories of the people who are experiencing the genocide are what reveal the full impact of the crisis – families torn apart, children robbed of their futures, and communities struggling to survive. These are the stories that move us to act and must not be ignored.
Genocide Report
In this report, we outline the evidence supporting our use of the term genocide grounded in international humanitarian law and established legal definition.