On Saturday 24th January 2009, residents marched in support of the people of Gaza.
Around 350 people set off from Ellesmere Green towards Devonshire Green, carrying placards with messages condemning the deaths of Palestinians, the siege on Gaza and the blockade of humanitarian aid.
A real cross section of Sheffield citizens took part in this show of solidarity, called by the Sheffield Muslim Association of Britain, Sheffield Stop the War Coalition, the UK Islamic Mission, the United Council of Mosques and others, with the support of the Sheffield Palestine Solidarity Campaign along side Burngreave Young Advisors.
Speakers called for on-going support of the Palestinian people, for governments to engage properly with Palestinian elected representatives to negotiate a lasting peace, and for a boycott of Israeli goods as long as Israel continues its attacks on Gaza and the West Bank. All speakers condemned the BBC’s recent decision not to broadcast an appeal for humanitarian aid.
Burngreave's Young Advisors, called for young people to “think global and act local”, to call for peace in Gaza and for young people in Burngreave.
Young people from Burngreave on the march said:
“I came to join the demonstration, it’s sad and awful what has happened.” Wala
“People are being killed in Gaza, and I feel mad about it.” Wafa
“We came here to support Gaza and to say we are with you and on your side against what Israel has done. And that we should help them, by giving money – I’d donate blood too if they need it.” Khalid
“I came on the demonstration because I am outraged with what has happened in Palestine.” Meriam
“It’s not a matter of religion, it’s not because I am a Muslim that I’m here. It’s a humanitarian issue. It’s because innocent people are dying.” Roumaissa
