Vancouver mayor issues statement Monday to mark first anniversary of Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas on Israelis.
Mayor Ken Sim released a statement Monday saying the City of Vancouver “will always stand with the Jewish community and unequivocally condemns Hamas' acts of terrorism against Israeli civilians.”“Today, we mark the one-year anniversary of the horrific October 7th, 2023 attack — an event that not only shocked our city, our country and the world, but also left a lasting scar on countless families and communities,” Sim said.
The attack and ongoing battle have triggered protests across the world, including in Vancouver, where police say it has cost $4.1 million to police 344 protests related to the Israel-Hamas war. Added Sim: “I am aware of the protests that took place in our city this weekend, as well as the protest planned for today in relation to this tragic event. While we respect the right to peaceful expression, if you are celebrating the October 7th attack, you do not represent the values of Vancouverites. Violence and hate speech will not be tolerated in our community.”
The organization describes itself as an international network of organizers and activists working to build solidarity with Palestinian prisoners in their struggle for freedom. “I know emotions are raw and people are experiencing a wide range of feelings right now. I also know there are many diverse opinions in this city,” said Palmer in a news release.
In May, he issued a statement to explain why the city agreed to light up city hall and the Burrard Bridge in white and blue to celebrate Israel's 76th Independence Day.
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