One More Canadian Province Honours Palestine

December 1: For residents of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Fredericton, New Brunswick, may not be familiar territory. Therefore, it’s not surprising that many of us were unaware of the incredible efforts a group of activists in the provincial capital has been making to advocate for humanity.

According to local leaders and social activists, Fredericton has witnessed a surge in pro-Palestinian activism in recent months. Regular protests have taken place outside the city hall, where demonstrators have called for justice for Palestinians and an end to the occupation. Student-led initiatives at local universities have also gained momentum, including organised walkouts and events to raise awareness of the situation in Palestine.

This growing activism is seen as a significant factor in the province’s decision to raise the flag, reflecting a broader community movement to express solidarity with Palestine.

The historic flag-raising ceremony at City Hall in Fredericton not only symbolises recognition of the Palestinian cause but also serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions about international solidarity and local activism.

Although the December 1 event attracted over 100 attendees, who gathered to witness this historic moment, they were quick to credit activist Chantelle Payu for her leadership on this issue. Despite facing early setbacks, she ultimately achieved success.

A media report on the event noted that, unlike other Palestinian flag-raising events in Canadian cities, the occasion in Fredericton faced no rival rallies or in-person opposition. However, the Atlantic Jewish Council’s Fredericton chapter expressed its deep concern in a letter to local media outlets regarding the flag-raising.

Now, all eyes are on Brockville, Ontario. Will the Brockville city council continue to deny its residents the right to celebrate Palestine?

After months of street marches supporting the rights of the Palestinian people, Brockville’s residents were disappointed when their city council narrowly rejected a request to fly the Palestinian flag behind City Hall.

The motion, brought forward by Councillor Cameron Wales, resulted in a tie vote, with councillors divided on the issue. The Brockville Peace Collective had requested that the flag be flown from November 27 to December 1 to commemorate the anniversary of the Palestinian declaration of independence. Some councillors argued that flying the flag would demonstrate support for residents, while others, including Councillor Phil Deery, insisted that municipal property should not be used to take sides in global disputes. The council agreed to review the city’s flag policy, with staff expected to report back in March 2026 following public consultation.