On Sunday, a large and unprecedented wave of pro-Palestinian protests swept across Australia. Hundreds turned out in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) today to call for peace and an end to the carnage in Gaza. Only a few days after the ceasefire, the demonstrations spread. This represents a significant turning point in the war that has now raged for two years. Protesters say the ceasefire is a huge victory. They stress that this is only the first step towards dignity and security for the people of Gaza.
The rally launched from outside the Victoria State Library on Swanston Street. One man particularly stood out as he wore a keffiyeh around his neck, expressing his support for Palestinian people with pride. Demonstrators started their march down St Kilda Road, towards the US consulate. Every Sunday they called for continued support for peace. With their message firmly in mind, participants took their message of justice and equity to the streets of Seattle.
Protest Details and Urban Impact
The protests came on the eve of the Nike Melbourne Marathon, which boasted a record-breaking 50,000 participants. Swanston Street and St Kilda Road are closed for the marathon. Along the way, protesters made creative use of the streets to truly take their message to the streets and keep their eyes trained on their goal.
“I think Melburnians understand that we need to keep coming out,” – an unnamed participant remarked, highlighting the community’s commitment to the ongoing demonstrations.
Every one of these protesters marched ferociously down George Street, past Town Hall and headed toward Belmore Park. They wanted to shed light on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for more than a ceasefire or pause in hostilities.
Calls for Action Beyond Ceasefire
Even with the recent ceasefire, speakers at the protests emphasized that there is still a long way to go. Activists were adamant that consistent action would be necessary to fight what they’ve called genocide in Gaza.
“The ceasefire is just the beginning, the reality is Gaza is completely destroyed,” said Saf, emphasizing the dire humanitarian conditions that persist despite the cessation of hostilities. “We have a whole population that’s been starved, died from famine; these conditions have not stopped.”
A special thanks to the activists who shared their thoughts on the need for sustained pressure and public demonstrations.
“I think the people power that’s been demonstrated over the past two years is testament as to why we’re at where we’re at,” another participant noted.
A National Movement
On the ground at Melbourne climate strikes As part of a larger nationwide effort, as many as … READ MORE >>Inland and westward Some rallies have already kicked off on the east coast, highlighting a national, unified demand for justice and peace for the Palestinian people.
Mai Saif, an activist involved in the protests, articulated their broader goals: “We’ve been campaigning for the end to the occupation, colonisation and end to the apartheid system that consistently oppresses and dominates Palestinians.”
Tactical police units visible at all times around major monuments as police closely monitor crowds. A preceding high court ruling had blocked the planned Opera House rally. With that decision, attention turned to myriad other events still planned across the country.
