Mike Morrice Leads Parliamentary Call to Action Against Gaza Genocide Amid Growing Grassroots Support
Ottawa, Canada — In a Parliament largely marked by silence or measured responses to the crisis in Gaza, MP Mike Morrice of Kitchener Centre once again emerged as a strong voice for justice. Speaking with conviction and urgency, Morrice denounced what he and international experts have described as genocide, calling on the Canadian government to take meaningful action to address the humanitarian catastrophe.
Morrice highlighted the devastating realities on the ground: Gaza now has the highest number of child amputees per capita in the world, with 1.1 million people facing catastrophic hunger and nearly 70% of the over 44,000 killed being women and children. Aid organizations like World Central Kitchen have been forced to pause operations due to the violence, leaving civilians without critical resources.
“Canada must not sit idly by,” Morrice declared. “There is much the government of Canada could do today if it were serious about ending its complicity in this genocide.” His proposed actions included enacting a two-way arms embargo, recognizing the state of Palestine, and fixing immigration processes for Palestinian-Canadian families seeking safety.
Morrice’s unwavering advocacy comes at a time when many MPs have hesitated to address the crisis with similar boldness. His leadership has drawn praise from human rights advocates and grassroots movements across the country.
On the same day as Morrice’s speech, 100 Jewish Canadians occupied the Confederation Building on Parliament Hill to demand an end to Canada’s complicity. Protest organizer Niall Ricardo delivered a striking message: “Our politicians cannot be complacent in these marble hallways while Israel continues to burn Palestinians alive in their tents.” The protest reflected the growing frustration among Canadians who feel the government’s response has been inadequate.
Morrice acknowledged the grassroots support, emphasizing the importance of such actions in holding the government accountable. “Years from now, politicians will memorialize this genocide,” he warned. “But more important than words of remembrance are actions today.”
In response to Morrice’s speech, the Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed grief over civilian casualties and highlighted Canada’s $215 million in humanitarian aid. However, the government stopped short of committing to the arms embargo or immediate recognition of Palestine, instead reiterating support for a two-state solution and diplomatic efforts.
Morrice’s repeated calls for stronger action and his alignment with grassroots movements like Ricardo’s protest underscore his role as a moral leader in Parliament. While many MPs remain silent, Morrice continues to push for Canada to reclaim its role as a global peacebuilder, calling for concrete action to end the suffering in Gaza.
As the crisis intensifies, Morrice’s voice and the growing chorus of activists demand that Canada move beyond words to meaningful, immediate action.