R E P O R T

Canberra Peace Walk
3 June 2007

A PeaceWalk took place in Canberra on Sunday June 3, the aim of which was to witness together our hope for peace in Palestine and Israel. People of all faiths joined in this hopeful, reflective walk.

The Canberra PeaceWalk recognised the shared humanity and human rights of all those who have suffered in this long-running conflict. The Walk called for the end of Israeli occupation of Palestine and the beginning of a just and sustainable peace.

The walk was led by the Canberra Ecumenical Working Group on Palestine and Israel and was supported by the ACT Churches Council, Christian World Service, Canberra parishes and community groups.

Olive branches, a symbol of hope and peace, were carried and an olive tree was presented to the Embassy of Israel on behalf of the Israeli people, from Australian people committed to just peacemaking. Discussions between Church Leaders and Embassy representatives preceded the presentation of the olive tree. Israeli Embassy representatives refused to accept the tree however have indicated their willingness to engage in dialogue with Church Leaders in the future.