Media Advisory - Christmas Cancelled in Bethlehem Amidst Bombing and Starvation: Canadian Leaders Stand in Solidarity with the Church of the Nativity and Call for Action on Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and West Bank

TORONTO, Dec. 21, 2023 /CNW/ - In Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, the Church of the Nativity and all churches across the city have cancelled Christmas events due to the humanitarian crisis in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and the assault on Gaza. The cancellation of Christmas festivities, which typically draw thousands of visitors, is a severe blow to the town's tourism-dependent economy. "But joyous revelry is untenable at a time of immense suffering of Palestinians in Gaza," said Hana Haniyeh, the Mayor of Bethlehem.  A press conference will address the critical situation, including the targeting of healthcare workers in Gaza. Three pressing demands, directed towards the Canadian government, will be articulated. These asks were raised by UOSSM during a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier this month. A response from the PMO is still awaited. 

Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church Amidst Devastation (CNW Group/UOSSM Canada)

What: Press Conference on Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Safety of Healthcare Workers Amidst Christmas Cancellation

When: Friday December 22^nd, 2023 at 11 am EST

Where: UOSSM Canada, 2255 Dundas St. W. - Suite 129, Mississauga, ON L5K 1R6

Who:

• The Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations (UOSSM) – Dr. Aliya Khan
• Independent Jewish Voices (IJV) and Jews Say No To Genocide – Alisa Gayle
• Canadian Christians in Solidarity – Khaled Mouammar
• Action for Palestine Healthcare Worker Coalition

Although the majority of Palestinians are Muslims, Christians have played a decisive role in advancing the Palestinian struggle for liberation.  Christian-Palestinians have also denounced celebrating Christmas this year.

SOURCE UOSSM Canada

For media inquiries and registration contact: Hana Faidi at [email protected]