At Macc, we recognise the devastating consequences of the ongoing violence in Palestine, Israel and the Middle East, which has unfolded into a humanitarian catastrophe, impacting innocent civilians on all sides. The tragic loss of life, especially children, is horrific and heartbreaking.
We see with horror the daily loss of innocent civilian lives in Palestine, the displacement of many more, and the widespread suffering caused by the ongoing violence in the area and the blocking and destruction of essential goods and services.
While we recognise Israel's right to combat terrorist organisations and defend itself within the framework established in international law, we condemn the attacks on thousands of innocent civilians in Palestine by Israeli forces, just as we condemn the terror attacks perpetrated by Hamas which led to the deaths of innocent civilians in Israel.
We extend our solidarity to all Palestinians and Israelis who have been affected by this appalling violence, and our thoughts go out to those who have lost family members and friends.
This decades-long conflict has already seen countless lives lost. Those in positions of leadership must find alternative ways of reaching a solution where people can live their lives in peace. A cease-fire is imperative to enable people to be supported and reach safety and support but, the fighting must ultimately stop.
We recognise the tireless efforts of our dedicated VCSE colleagues, doctors and volunteers, who are working diligently on the ground to provide essential care and maintain support services amidst harsh and dangerous conditions. It is vital that urgent support and lifesaving humanitarian aid, medical supplies, fuel and food can be provided to those who are caught in the warzone.
We acknowledge that global conflicts can have a profound impact on communities represented here in Greater Manchester. As the violence continues, we are alarmed by the rise in incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism. Macc has a zero-tolerance policy to racism and all forms of discrimination. We fully support the Greater Manchester Let’s End Hate Crime campaign. To learn more about what constitutes a hate crime, the available help, and how to report such incidents, please visit this website.
The right to speak, to protest and to stand up in solidarity are essential features of a healthy democracy. But there is not a right to spread hatred. It is crucial that we stand together and promote unity, understanding and respect among all members of our society, both in Manchester and beyond. We see increasing use of social media to attack and divide, spreading misinformation to distort public perception and influence opinions. We firmly oppose anyone who exploits these events to foment division within our communities.
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with the emotional toll of these events, or wishes to explore ways in which they can support humanitarian efforts in the region, we recommend reaching out to the following organisations:
- British Red Cross
- Save The Children
- Oxfam GB Campaigns
- Manchester Mind - Urgent Mental Health Support
- Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit
- Penny Appeal
- MSF (Doctors without Borders)
- The Fed
- British Muslim Heritage Centre
- Myriad Foundation
- The Mayor's Faith and Belief Advisory Panel
- Greater Manchester Faith Community Leaders
- Medical Aid for Palestinians
Updated June 2024