Calgarians gathered in front of city hall Wednesday to pray for those Syrians killed and others fighting for their lives in Aleppo.
After almost six years of death and destruction as a result of the Syrian civil war, the sentiment in Calgary is one of heartbreak and helplessness.
“I’m so sad for my country. I can’t eat. I can’t take a breath,” Asila Ashamwi said. She moved to Calgary with her husband and three girls, all under the age of six, eight months ago.
“Many people in Aleppo don’t have food, don’t have anything,” Ashamwi said.
READ MORE: ‘The situation with Aleppo is now terrible’: Leader of Syrian rescue group urges action
A ceasefire deal collapsed in Aleppo Wednesday morning, trapping residents who were suppose to be evacuated. The ceasefire was reinstated later in the day.
“They are suffering for nothing. I wish that they could leave Aleppo alone and people could live in peace,” Imam Jamal Hammoud with the Calgary Muslim community, said.
About 40 people attended the prayer Wednesday.
READ MORE: How Canadians can help people in Aleppo