Palestinians in Paterson and the surrounding areas gathered Monday evening to reflect and support each other among rising tensions following a Hamas attack in Israel.

Many community groups gathered at Gould Avenue Park. It was an event that was put together as a safe space to express feelings and emotions.

“It should go without saying that we wish no harm on any innocent soul – especially no woman or child – neither an Israeli or a Palestinian," one speaker said.

"I am not a religious Jew, and yet this morning I found myself instinctively reciting the Mourner's Kaddish, the Jewish prayer for the dead. For all the lives young, old, mothers, fathers, children, lovers, Palestinians, Israelis, Americans, Muslims, Jews, Christians lost on this horrific weekend,” said another participant.

Paterson has one of the largest Palestinian communities in New Jersey.