"Gaza is not an independent country—it is a city in historic Palestine, currently under Israeli military blockade and occupation since 2006, and undergoing an unprecedented genocide since October 7, 2023. Referring to its residents solely as “Gazans” unintentionally detaches them from their broader national identity as Palestinians."
To the Rover team,
I am writing on behalf of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East to thank you for the video you shared on social media addressing the controversy surrounding the Liberal Party of Canada’s leadership race and the importance of informed voting.
I especially appreciate that you pointed out the concerning appointment of Marco Mendicino as Chief of Staff by newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney. As you mentioned, Mendicino is a staunchly pro-Israel politician with a troubling track record of hostility toward Palestinian human rights. He is one of the few Liberal MPs who voted against adopting a ceasefire in Gaza, despite overwhelming Liberal caucus and public support. He also voted against ceasing the transfer of arms exports to Israel.
On another note, I’d like to draw your attention to a subtle but important point regarding the use of misleading language in the video wherein you refer to Palestinians in Gaza as “Gazans.” While this may seem like a minor detail, it carries broader implications.
Gaza is not an independent country—it is a city in historic Palestine, currently under Israeli military blockade and occupation since 2006, and undergoing an unprecedented genocide since October 7, 2023. Referring to its residents solely as “Gazans” unintentionally detaches them from their broader national identity as Palestinians. This distinction matters—especially in a media landscape where Palestinian identity is constantly at risk of erasure. Using terms like “Palestinians living in the occupied Gaza Strip” helps affirm both their national identity and the reality of life under Israeli occupation.
All in all, thank you once again for using your platform to keep the call to end the genocide in Palestine at the forefront of our political priorities— especially as we approach the upcoming elections at the end of the month.
In solidarity, until we see a liberated Palestine from the river to the sea,
Lynn Naji
Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East