Kapehan at Kalayaan: Toronto’s Filipino Community Stands for Palestinian Liberation

Kapehan at Kalayaan: Toronto’s Filipino Community Stands for Palestinian Liberation

The Parallel Play Band (composed of AnakBayan Toronto, CPSO and allies, delivers a powerful anthem of solidarity, uniting hearts and voices through their symbolic performance.

August 29, 2024

By Leny Rose Simbre

TORONTO — Over 300 people gathered at 264 The Esplanade for a night of culture, solidarity, and activism at “Kapehan at Kalayaan” (Cafe and Liberation) on August 29, 2024, from 6 pm to 9:30  PM. Organized by Filipinos United for Palestine, this event brought together the Filipino community in Toronto to support the Palestinian liberation movement through music, food, and education.

The event, a unique blend of cultural celebration and political activism, featured Filipino treats and drinks, live performances, and the “Palayain ang Palestine” (Free Palestine) Collection from Pinoy  Collection Shop. All proceeds from the collection were donated to Little Gaza, a community of Palestinian-Filipino families and refugees in Quezon City, Philippines, emphasizing the commitment of the Filipino community to global solidarity and justice.

“Kapehan at Kalayaan” kicked off with a warm welcome and artist performance by D Badua, followed by Bennette and Sha from Greenhouse Theatre, who captivated the audience with their heartfelt songs. The evening continued with energetic sets from Parallel Play Banda, Zoe V, and Pantayo, each artist bringing their unique style and voice to the cause.

The program also included a stirring speech by Alqasem, who highlighted the shared histories of oppression and resistance between the Filipino and Palestinian communities. His words underscored the importance of unity and collective action in the fight for justice and liberation.

The Parallel Play Band (composed of AnakBayan Toronto, CPSO and allies, delivers a powerful anthem of solidarity, uniting hearts and voices through their symbolic performance.

Victoria and Paulo, members of Filipinos United for Palestine, shared the significance of the event, stating, “Like many, we have been looking for ways to build community while bearing witness to the ongoing genocide in Palestine. Understanding the links between the Filipino experience with colonialism and the importance of solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters, this fundraiser by Filipinos United for Palestine in support of Little Gaza was created to be a safe space to gather folks, celebrate our culture through food, drink, and the arts, awaken political consciousness, and create solidarity with one another. Through community, we find hope and ways to materially support those displaced by the occupation and advance the struggle towards liberation for all peoples in the Philippines, Palestine, and worldwide.”

The event was not only a fundraiser but also a platform for education and engagement. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the struggles faced by Palestinian families and the importance of supporting their fight for freedom. The event fostered a sense of solidarity and collective action, encouraging participants to stand together against injustice and oppression.

The overwhelming turnout and enthusiastic support demonstrated the power of community and solidarity. “It was inspiring to see so many people come together for a cause that transcends borders,” said one attendee. “The energy in the room was incredible, and it was clear that everyone was here to make a difference.”

As the night ended, organizers thanked everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s success. “We are deeply moved by the support and solidarity shown here tonight,” said D Badua, “Together, we are building a movement that transcends borders and unites people in the fight for justice and liberation.”

“Kapehan at Kalayaan” was more than just an event; it was a powerful statement of unity and resistance, showing that the struggle for justice is a global one. 

Jazz Manalang ignites a powerful chant of solidarity, advocating for the rights and support of Filipino-Palestinian refugees in the Philippines