Community to walk in solidarity with Gaza 

The local community is being asked to come together this Sunday, September 8, for a powerful display of solidarity with the people of Gaza.   

The D15&7 Walk for Gaza (Walk4Gaza), organised by the group ‘D15 With Palestine’ (https://www.instagram.com/d15withpalestine/), will raise much-needed funds for those affected by the ongoing crisis and keep international attention focused on the situation in Gaza.  

The walk will begin at 1 pm in Blanchardstown Village, with participants making their way via Roselawn to Millennium Park, finishing with talks from long-standing activists, and refreshments.   

The event aims to support those wounded, bereaved, and displaced by the ongoing genocide, with all funds raised going to local Palestinians to send to Gaza through their networks to help families and communities impacted by the genocide.  

Amani Saqallah, a member of D15 With Palestine, and a Palestinian living in Dublin 15, said, “It’s so encouraging to see the solidarity from the community in Dublin 15 and throughout Ireland.   

“It shows that we can help make a difference.   

“The funds raised through the Walk for Gaza will make a significant impact by providing essential aid to people in Gaza, as well as solidarity.   

“This solidarity from the community is a real message of hope to those who are struggling. Even small acts have a big impact, we must keep protesting and highlighting what is happening in Palestine.”  

Cllr. Ruth Coppinger, a member of D15 With Palestine since last October, said “The devastation in Gaza is unimaginable, with the Lancet medical journal estimating the death toll at over 186,000, alongside countless injuries and the destruction of homes and livelihoods,” Cllr Coppinger added.   

“This walk is our way of showing that the people of Dublin 15 stand in solidarity with Gaza, and we’re committed to helping those in need.

“But it is also to say to local Ministers and this government — we want action not words on the Gaza genocide.   

“We want an end to warplanes using Shannon airport, we want the Israeli Ambassador expelled, the Occupied Territories Bill passed and all trade ended with Israel until the genocide stops.”  

D15 With Palestine, a group of ordinary residents including members of the local Palestinian community, has been organising solidarity events since last year.   

Many of the Palestinian members, who are Irish citizens, now based in Blanchardstown, have personally experienced the trauma of fleeing their homeland.  

The group is encouraging everyone in the community to participate in the walk, donate, and help spread the word.

Whether through social media or by joining the walk on the day, every action counts.  

Those wishing to, or able to, take part can go to GoFundMe page https://www.gofundme.com/f/Walk4Gaza