Vigil Held in Protest of 'No Christmas in Palestine' Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis

A powerful vigil was held in Melbourne today under the banner "No Christmas in Palestine," highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the plight of Palestinian Christians who have canceled Christmas celebrations for the second year in a row. The event, organized by Merri-bek & Northern Suburbs for Palestine, brought together a diverse group of speakers to raise awareness about the ongoing violence and the impact on Palestinian communities, particularly in Bethlehem.

P24 News Media

December 21, 2024

1 minute

Vigil Held in Protest of 'No Christmas in Palestine' Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis

Australia

Melbourne, December 20, 2024

The vigil comes amid the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have continued their bombardment despite widespread international calls for ceasefire. Palestinian churches, particularly in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, have declared that there is nothing to celebrate as violence escalates in the region. Last year, and again this year, many Christians in Bethlehem and elsewhere have been unable to gather for religious services, with Israeli authorities preventing worshippers from reaching the city.

The event was emceed by Sue Bolton, a City of Merri-bek Councillor, Socialist Alliance member, and founder of Merri-bek & Northern Suburbs for Palestine. Bolton emphasized the importance of keeping the conversation alive about Gaza and Palestinian suffering, even as political leaders push for silence. "The politicians wanted us to stop talking about Gaza months ago. We have to make sure that we keep talking about Gaza," Bolton said.

Reflecting on the failure of the Australian government to take significant action, Bolton pointed to the stark contrast in responses to global conflicts. "While the Australian government has changed its vote at the UN to support a ceasefire in Gaza, it is refusing to do the thing that would have the most significant impact on the people of Gaza," she said. "The Australian government refuses to implement widespread sanctions on Israel. When Russia invaded Ukraine, Australia joined the rest of the world in immediately implementing wide-ranging sanctions on Russia. Yet, over 14 months into Israel’s genocidal actions in Gaza, not a single sanction has been imposed on Israel."

Bolton’s words were echoed by the other speakers, who highlighted the continued suffering of Palestinians under occupation and the dire need for international action.

A Call for Sanctions and Accountability

Yousef Alreemawi, a lecturer in Arabic Language and Culture and founder of the Community Radio 3CR program Palestine Remembered, reminded the crowd of the deep historical and cultural ties between Palestine and the Christian faith. "Bethlehem is not just a symbol of faith for Christians worldwide. It is a living, breathing community that is under siege. As Palestinians face violence from both Israeli settlers and the IDF, it is crucial that the global community recognizes their suffering," Alreemawi said.

Ali Abusaid, a Gazan refugee, also shared his personal story of displacement and loss, stressing the trauma experienced by Palestinians in Gaza. "For us, Christmas is a reminder of the tragedy we are living every day. The world cannot turn a blind eye any longer," he said.

The vigil also featured speeches from Daniel Keane of Teachers for Palestine, Mohamed El-Masri, Greens candidate for Calwell, Mick Bull of Socialist Alliance, and Michael Shaik of Vote Palestine Wills. All speakers expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause and denounced the international community's inaction, particularly the lack of sanctions against Israel.

Musical Tributes and Solidarity

The emotional atmosphere was further heightened by performances from musicians Amy Jones and Camille el Feghali, who provided poignant renditions of songs that resonated with themes of resistance and hope for a peaceful future.

The "No Christmas in Palestine" vigil was not only a call for action but also a powerful reminder that the struggle for Palestinian rights and justice is far from over. As the crowd gathered in solidarity, the message was clear: Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza and Bethlehem, are not forgotten, and their struggle will continue to be heard around the world.

A Growing Movement for Justice

The vigil is part of a larger movement within Australia and internationally to challenge the status quo and demand meaningful action against Israel's occupation and its treatment of Palestinians. Organizers emphasized the need for a global arms embargo on Israel, with many speakers calling for immediate sanctions to help end the ongoing violence.

As the Australian government continues to face pressure to take stronger action, the voices of activists and concerned citizens grow louder, demanding justice for Palestine and an end to the violence in Gaza. The organizers of the vigil are hopeful that their efforts will continue to raise awareness and inspire further action, particularly as the world marks yet another Christmas without peace in Palestine.