Hundreds gathered in Surrey’s Holland Park on Aug. 16 to demand immediate action from Canada to help end the war in Gaza.
Surrey Residents Gather for Gaza Peace Appeal
On August 16, 2025, hundreds of people assembled at Holland Park in Surrey, B.C., to call for immediate political action to end the war in Gaza. The rally was organized by community groups including SurDelRock4Palestine, Cloverdale-Langley For Palestine, Al-Awda Vancouver, and FreePalestineBC, with support from peace organizations such as the Global Peace Alliance.
Voices of the Community
Among the speakers was 12-year-old Ghazal, who spoke about her experience growing up in Gaza before moving to Canada. “I speak for my uncle and for the life he lost… I carry Gaza in my heart. Free Palestine. Long live Gaza,” she said, moving the crowd with her words.
March to MP’s Office
Following speeches, demonstrators marched from Holland Park to the constituency office of MP Randeep Sarai. Organizers attempted to deliver a letter urging the federal government to take stronger action. Larry, an organizer with SurDelRock4Palestine, stressed: “Words are not enough anymore. Too many people are dying — it’s time for action.”
Ongoing Conflict Abroad
The demonstration comes as the conflict continues in Gaza. On August 18, news outlet Al Jazeera reported that Hamas had agreed to terms for a 60-day ceasefire, though hostilities remain.
Canada’s Official Response
The Canadian government has repeatedly called for an end to the fighting. On August 8, Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned Israel’s escalation, saying it would “do nothing to end the humanitarian horror in Gaza.” In a July 30 statement, Carney reaffirmed Canada’s support for a two-state solution and confirmed that Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, contingent on governance reforms and demilitarization.
Looking Ahead
For many Surrey residents who joined the march, the goal was clear: to push Canada’s leaders beyond statements and toward concrete action. By delivering their message directly to a federal MP, organizers say they hope to amplify calls for peace and ensure that voices from their community contribute to shaping Canada’s role in the international response.
