On October 2nd, communities around the world will mark Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi’s legacy of peace, truth, and non-violence reminds us that working for justice is both a personal and collective act. Here in Halifax, we are honouring that legacy by combining action and reflection.
Saying No to DEFSEC
From 12–1 pm at the Argyle Street entrance of the Halifax Convention Centre, we will gather to say NO to DEFSEC. DEFSEC is Canada’s second largest arms show, a place where weapons are traded and normalized. We believe war begins long before the first shot is fired — it begins with deals made behind closed doors, where profit is placed before peace.
By raising our voices, we are reminding our leaders and our community that complicity in the machinery of war is complicity in crimes against peace. The Nuremberg Principles are clear: aiding in the preparation of war is itself a crime under international law. We are here to uphold those principles and demand a better future.
Coming Together for Peace Tea
After the rally, we invite you to step into a quieter space of reflection and conversation. At 1:30 pm, we’ll gather for Peace Tea at Le French Fix Pâtisserie (5233 Prince St, Halifax).
This gathering is a chance to continue the spirit of Gandhi’s teachings — not just resisting violence, but actively imagining what peace looks like in our daily lives. Together, we’ll ask:
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What does a just and peaceful world look like?
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What steps can we take to move towards this vision?
Sharing tea in community reminds us that change is not only about protest — it’s about building relationships, exchanging ideas, and nurturing hope.
Why These Two Events Matter Together
By linking action with reflection, we honour the full spirit of Gandhi’s legacy. Protest without vision can leave us weary. Reflection without action can leave us powerless. But when we bring the two together, we create a cycle of energy and purpose that sustains movements for justice.
On October 2nd, let’s take to the streets, raise our voices, and then come together over tea to imagine the world we are working toward.
Because peace is not only the absence of war — it is the presence of justice.
Details at a glance
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Rally: NO to DEFSEC → October 2, 12–1 pm, Argyle Street entrance, Halifax Convention Centre
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Peace Tea Gathering → October 2, 1:30 pm, Le French Fix Pâtisserie, 5233 Prince St, Halifax
We hope to see you there. Let’s make peace louder than war.