It was only three days ago that I wrote my blog post, The Atrocities in Gaza Must End. Now. My newsfeed remains filled with death and devastation. The senseless, daily killings in Gaza haunt me.
They should haunt all of us.
Let me be clear: Hamas’ murder of over 1,100 innocent people was a horrific act of terrorism. So was the recent killing of two Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C. We live in a world filled with hate-fueled violence. It is heartbreaking. It is overwhelming. How do we put a stop to it?
I wrote to my Member of Parliament, Dan Muys, and to Prime Minister Carney—as I encouraged others to do in my May 21 post. I haven’t heard back yet, and that’s understandable in the short term. But this isn’t the first time I’ve spoken up. In November 2023, I asked Muys to represent my call for an immediate ceasefire and for negotiations toward a two-state solution. I never received a reply.
And yet, I won’t stop.
All over the world, people are protesting Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza—including many Israelis and Jewish people of conscience in countries near and far. Leaders in the UK, Canada, and France have joined voices demanding an end to this devastation. Palestinians in Gaza are rising up, calling not only for an end to the occupation but also for freedom from Hamas’ oppression.
Still, each day, more children, women, men, and elders are killed.
I understand why many of us feel powerless. It’s hard not to when governments delay, deflect, or diminish these cries for peace. Statements without action feel hollow. And the U.S.’s continued military support for Israel only deepens this injustice.
So, what do we do? Do we give up? Do we accept that our voices don’t matter?
No. We must not.
I will not remain silent.
My voice may not carry far on its own. But I believe, deeply, that our voices—together—can. And do. Every letter, every post, every conversation chips away at indifference and builds pressure for change.
If you’re reading this and wondering if your voice matters, it does.
History is shaped not only by those in power, but by the millions who refuse to let injustice stand. I may never know what impact my voice has—but I will keep using it, because it’s the right thing to do.
To the families and friends of the 1,100 people killed by Hamas, and to those grieving the loss of hostages, I mourn with you. I hope for an end to Hamas’ reign of terror.
To the Palestinian people in Gaza and across the globe who oppose Hamas and endure this unrelenting devastation, I stand with you in calling for a ceasefire—and for a just, peaceful two-state solution.
May peace be upon you. And may peace be embraced with with every voice that dares to speak.
Photo credit: Children crying following the Israeli bombing of Khan Yunis, Gaza (Photo by Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images)
