Every November, Halifax becomes the backdrop for conversations about global security — but not all of those conversations reflect our commitments to peace, safety, or the dignity of communities affected by war. This year, community members from across Mi’kma’ki are gathering to say clearly: No Peace, No Safety with the Halifax Security Forum.

The Halifax Security Forum brings military leaders, political figures, and defence contractors into our city each year. For many residents, this gathering doesn’t represent “security” — it represents the normalization of global militarization and the ongoing harm caused by war, occupation, and escalating violence around the world.

Halifax has a deep history of peace work, grassroots organizing, and standing in solidarity with people resisting oppression. From our local Peace & Friendship Treaties to ongoing mobilizations connected to global justice movements, Nova Scotians know that real safety is rooted in community care, diplomacy, accountability, and demilitarization.

A Community Gathering for Peace

On Saturday, November 22nd, people will gather at Peace & Friendship Park from 2:00pm to 4:00pm to stand together for a different vision of security — one grounded in peace, equity, and international solidarity.

This action brings together voices from across the region who are calling for:

• An end to the glorification of war and military intervention

• A shift toward peace-building, humanitarian action, and conflict de-escalation

• Accountability for the global impacts of Canadian foreign policy

• A Halifax that reflects its commitments to justice, not militarization

This gathering is open to everyone who envisions a future beyond war — a Halifax where safety does not depend on violence, and where we refuse to normalize the harm caused to communities here and abroad.

Why It Matters

War does not keep people safe. Militarized responses deepen instability, displace families, and harm those already most vulnerable. By showing up together, we send a collective message that our city does not belong to the agendas of war profiteers or global powers seeking to strengthen military alliances at the expense of human lives.

Halifax is a community of care — we know this, because we see it in our neighbourhoods, our movements, our mutual aid, and our commitments to justice across generations. This is another moment to make that care visible.

Event Details

📍 Peace & Friendship Park, Kjipuktuk/Halifax
📅 Saturday, November 22nd
⏰ 2:00pm – 4:00pm

All are welcome. Bring signs, bring friends, bring your hope for a more peaceful world.

Palestinian Land Exercise – A Free Community Learning Event

The Just Peace Working Group are inviting community members to a meaningful and participatory learning experience on Sunday, November 23rd, from 1:00–3:00 pm in the Community Room of the Bus Stop Theatre, located at 2203 Gottingen Street, Halifax.

This Palestinian Land Exercise, facilitated by the Just Peace Working Group, offers an opportunity to explore the complex history of Palestine/Israel through a human-centred lens. Together, we will walk through some of the major events that have shaped the region since the late 19th century and reflect on their impact on the people who continue to be affected today.

This session is designed to be thoughtful, grounded, and interactive—an invitation to learn, listen, and engage in peaceful dialogue with others in our community.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, November 23rd

• Time: 1:00–3:00 pm

• Location: Bus Stop Theatre, Community Room
  2203 Gottingen Street, Halifax

• Facilitator: Just Peace Working Group

• Cost: Free

• Registration: Required — please email jpwg2023@gmail.com

Spots are limited, so we encourage you to register early.

Whether you’re new to this subject or deepening your understanding, this learning opportunity offers a supportive space to explore history, ask questions, and participate in a shared commitment to peace and justice.