The Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities together organized an inter-faith fundraiser Sunday at the United Church to support the humanitarian relief efforts for people in Gaza.

All proceeds will go to the Inter- national Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

The Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities said they’re conscious of the necessity of standing together against hate and racism.

There has been an unprecedented rise in Islamophobic and anti-Semitic incidents across Canada ever since the escalation of the conflict in Gaza began early last month.

In the spirit of humanity, and the desire for peace and co-existence, the three communities worked together to organize the fundraiser.

There was an obvious RCMP presence outside the church. Organizers know of more than

$12,000 that’s been raised so far. “What we’re experiencing today is a humanitarian event; all of the money we raised today will go to the International Red Cross Red Crescent, who are active in the area of Gaza, southern Gaza, and all of the money is dedicated to medical, to housing issues, clothing and food,” said Rick Karp, the president of the

Jewish Community of Yukon. Muslim representative Israr Ahmed shared a story of the Prophet Muhammad. “The Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon Him, is telling us that we cannot lose hope, that we cannot lose faith; we have to remain optomistic, we have to be hopeful even when everything around us seems to be collapsing,” Ahmed said. “Even when all that is around us seems to be just chaos, we have to have hope and faith ... it is in that spirit of hope faith and peace that this fundraiser has been organized.

“Faith in God, hope and humanity that we can all come together and resolve our issues and work towards peace.

“Thank you to all for coming; it means a lot, it warms the heart of this frigid day,” Ahmed said. “It is moving.

“I cannot thank Stu (Clark) and Rick enough for being on board with this idea right from the get-go, the wonderful people at the United Church, all the wonderful volunteers ... people from the Jewish community who have supported this.

“This is how we stand against hate, bigotry, prejudism and racism.”