DEARBORN – Members of the community are coming together to organize a “Support the Victims of Palestine” event at Lapeer Park in the south-end of the city.

The event, taking place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, August 9, seeks to raise money for the victims of the war in Gaza.  All the funds raised that day will go to the Palestine Children Relief Fund, which will have representatives there.

According to Event Coordinator William Ali, “Support the Victims of Palestine” is open to everyone. He would like to see parents bring their children. 

“Our goal is to raise money for the victims and show solidarity as Americans for the people of Palestine,” said Ali. “A lot of young people have expressed that they feel helpless and angry over what they are seeing on TV in Gaza and I told them instead of being depressed and angry, energy should be focused on doing something.”

Several local youth groups will be assisting with the event, including the Student Public Outreach Committee (SPOC), the Arab American Yemeni Student Professionals Organization and the Michigan Yemen Sports Association (MYSA). 

During the event, the park will be open for picnics and there will be an admission fee into the swimming pool from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Patrons can also engage in sporting activities, include volleyball and soccer. 

Other planned activities include a student and parent-led bake sale, contests, games for kids, henna tattoos and face paintings. 

Activities for adults include a 40 and over basketball contest.  Ali said he’ll lead a “100 friends for 100 dollars” contest. He hopes to get 100 people to donate $100. 

At noon, there will also be a planned moment of silence at the top of the Lapeer hill, where participants will hold up signs that read “Free Palestine.” 

“Hopefully we can earn a few thousand dollars for a good cause,” Ali said. “The park is opened for everybody to come out and join us.”

Community members  who have further questions or are interested in participating with the organizing of the event can contact Amal Ali at spocya@gmail.com