LONDON, (PIC)
The 19th Annual Palestine Festival, organized by the Palestinian Forum in Britain (PFB), took place on Saturday in London, uniting thousands from the Palestinian and Arab communities alongside British supporters of the Palestinian cause.
This year’s festival was particularly poignant, as it coincided with Israel’s ongoing genocide of the Gaza Strip and its assault against Lebanon. In his opening remarks, Zaher Birawi, Chairman of the PFB, underscored the event’s profound significance:
“This year’s festival is unique, focusing on solidarity, advocacy, and unwavering support for our people in Gaza. Today, we dedicate the 19th Palestine Festival to raising awareness of the relentless suffering endured by our brothers and sisters in Gaza—our resilient Gaza—and across our entire occupied homeland. Let us teach our children that Palestine is our beloved homeland and that reclaiming and liberating it requires sacrifices of the highest value. History will not be kind to those who remain complicit or silent in the face of such atrocities.”
Birawi called on attendees to stand resolutely against the British government’s enabling role in the crimes committed against Palestinians, urging them to strengthen their solidarity with Gaza.
Uplifting Voices of Solidarity
Renowned artists delivered powerful performances that inspired unity and hope. The line-up included Khairi Hatem from Jordan, Turkish singer Mesut Kurtis, and British artist Garth Hewitt, whose moving songs echoed the resilience of the Palestinian people.
Honoring Voices of Advocacy
As part of its annual tradition, the PFB recognized individuals and organizations in the UK who have shown outstanding dedication to Palestinian rights and justice. The 2024 awards, presented by Zaher Birawi, were given to:
Matt Kennard: Journalist and co-founder of Declassified UK.
Richard Sanders: Filmmaker
Dr Omar Abdel-Mannan: Chair of Healthcare Workers for Palestine.
The Association of Student Activism for Palestine (ASAP).
The Green Brigade: Celtic FC Ultras.
Dr Myriam François: Media personality and advocate.
These honorees were celebrated for their principled opposition to Israeli occupation crimes and their steadfast efforts to challenge the UK government’s complicity.
Empowering Future Generations
The festival also focused on educating and inspiring children through activities led by the PFB’s Youth Division and the “PaliPals” project. These programs instilled values of belonging, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom, ensuring the next generation remains committed to the Palestinian cause.
Celebrating Palestinian Heritage
Cultural exhibitions highlighted the richness of Palestinian traditions, featuring embroidery workshops and a vibrant bazaar showcasing traditional foods. The embroidery sessions celebrated this cherished art form as a symbol of Palestinian identity and resistance.
Raising Vital Support for Gaza
Fundraising efforts at the festival centered on providing relief for Gaza. Attendees generously contributed towards essential supplies such as shelter, food, clothing, and medical aid. A partnering charity successfully raised tens of thousands of pounds, underscoring the community’s unwavering commitment to alleviating the suffering of those under siege.
The Festival successfully raised over £25,000 to support Gaza and Lebanon. One of the event highlights was the sale of a painting depicting the map of Palestine, which fetched an impressive £12,500 during an exciting and passionate auction.
A Unified Call for Justice
The festival sent a resounding political message: Palestinians in Britain remain steadfastly united with Gaza, committed to justice and resistance. Attendees condemned the UK government’s complicity in Israeli war crimes through arms sales and political inaction, describing such policies as disgraceful and unconscionable.
The PFB expressed deep admiration for the resilience of Gaza’s people, pledging to continue advocating for their survival, dignity, and eventual liberation.
