Selma’s Sweets Run 4 Peace 5k at Moraine Valley Community College gathered over 1,000 attendees for Palestine Child Relief Fund.
“When I think about PCRF’s first inauguration nearly 11 years ago, we had a great group by far, but this is the largest group I’ve seen attend this event. Congratulations,” said Mayor Gerald Bennett.
Runners and walkers gathered Sept. 15 to participate in what may now be known as the “largest” gathering for the annual run. It was so large organizers had to close down registration, but that didn’t prevent the outpouring of emails and messages through social media of people wanting to get in on the run and to help.
PCRF’s social media coordinator, Josselyn Sorto, shared what a great problem it was to have.
“Getting groups of people wanting to participate even after registration has been closed or people insistently wanting just to donate,” she said. “Just the hunger to make a difference is beautiful.”
“We poured our blood, sweat, time, and dedication into an event to unite our community,” she said. “Nearly a year after the conflict began, we hoped to bring a glimmer of light, joy, and faith that one day we can say Palestine is free.”
“As a Latin woman, I am also proud of my community,” she said. “Whether I was inspired to ask questions or a comrade did, somehow we all are in one space, with one common thought: We won’t stop fighting for our brothers and sisters.”
Mayor Bennett reflected similar sentiments: “This event is even more special. With the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, this turnout is undoubtedly indicative of your concern and your help that you want to take back to Palestine. We’re proud of the main sponsors, Selma Sweets & Frozen Treats, being in Palos Hills, as well as Moraine Valley Community College sponsoring this.”
Bruce Wu, who has attended the run for the third consecutive year, was blown away by turnout and community support. He was seen filming and capturing event attendees.
“I have a lot of compassion towards the Palestinian people and PCRF’s mission. I hope people see that we’re all the same,” Wu said. “Palestinians are people, and they want the same things we want.”
Orland Park resident and first-time participant Sara Aqel was thrilled to participate.
“It’s so wonderful seeing so much unity; what an incredible outcome of support to see all diverse ethnicities and races be involved and demonstrate compassion, community, and just wanting to do good. It leaves you feeling good.”
Chairwoman Vivian Khalaf and PCRF member Amyra Muhammad both shared words of support for community members.
“We can’t unsee what we’ve seen. All we can do is take action to stop this from continuing and do our part, no matter how little or how big, to help heal those who need healing,” Khalaf said. “With your support and generous donors worldwide, PCRF has provided over $30,000,000 in humanitarian aid to Gaza since October 7 in the form of medical, nutritional, hygiene, and shelter interventions.”
“We will continue to work hard. We will not become numb to the pain we are feeling. Our people in Gaza are not stopping, so we sure as hell never will,” said Khalaf.
“As you run the three miles or walk one mile, you are saving a child in Palestine and raising awareness for Palestine. We will continue to do this until we never have to,” said Muhammad.