The purpose of the CPSA organized rally held on Oct. 9 was to create a space of collective healing for Palestinians and allies in London and express profound concern regarding the continued violence perpetrated against Palestinans. The attempts to portray the protests as hateful are dangerous and false. We established many times throughout the program that no form of hate racism or antisemitism will be tolerated. Furthermore, organizers worked to de-escalate altercations between attendees and provocateurs actively establishing our space as one intolerant of aggression. Our program consisted of Muslim faith leaders, Independent Jewish Voices, humanitarian workers, and affected Gazans.

London Police Services were notified by organizers two days in advance and two phone meetings took place to go over route planning and risk mitigation. The continued characterization of the protest as "unsanctioned" by elected officials is disingenuous. Our leaders and elected officials must not make statements that further perpetuate the rampant Anti-Palestinian racism. We call on all levels of government to advocate for de-escalation and an accountable process that can lead to meaningful and just peace for Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.