On Sunday, June 28th, HR Canada Charitable Organization featured Palestinian-American peace advocate Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib in discussion with author, human rights advocate, and interfaith leader Raheel Raza.

Since October 7, public conversations about Gaza, Israel, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have become increasingly polarized. Across Canada and around the world, these debates have often generated more heat than light, contributing to social division, rising antisemitism, and a growing disconnect between public narratives and the lived realities of those most directly affected by the conflict.

This webinar explored how activism, media narratives, and public discourse shape understanding of the conflict, influence attitudes toward Jewish communities, and affect perceptions of peace, coexistence, and human rights. Through the lens of personal experience and evidence-based analysis, participants will gain insight into the challenges facing Palestinians, the realities of life in Gaza, and the obstacles that stand in the way of constructive dialogue and lasting peace.

Raised in Gaza, Ahmed Alkhatib has become one of the most prominent Palestinian voices advocating for coexistence, reform, and a pragmatic path forward for both Palestinians and Israelis. Drawing on his personal experiences and extensive work in public education and policy, he discussed the gap between the realities confronting Palestinians and the narratives often advanced by international activist movements, especially here at home.

Leading the discussion was Raheel Raza, a leading Canadian advocate for human rights, religious pluralism, and interfaith understanding. Together, they examined how public narratives are formed, how misinformation and ideological framing can distort understanding, and how these dynamics contribute to prejudice, polarization, and rising antisemitism.

Participants also explored an important question: when advocacy movements become detached from the experiences and aspirations of the people they claim to represent, what are the consequences for public understanding, social cohesion, and prospects for peace?

Consistent with HR Canada Charitable Organization’s commitment to advancing education and increasing public understanding of antisemitism, discrimination, and social intolerance, this discussion will provide a thoughtful examination of the relationship between public discourse, anti-Jewish prejudice, and constructive engagement across communities.