Protesters hold pro-Gaza demonstration in São Paulo
Thousands of people participated on Sunday afternoon (Jun. 15) in a march in downtown São Paulo in support of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, who are facing a humanitarian crisis as a result of Israeli military attacks. The mobilization is supported by popular movements, unions, and left-wing politicians.
In their call to action, the organizers said the event is part of the “Global March for Gaza,” an international initiative mobilized by popular movements, social organizations, collectives, and human rights activists.
At the event, participants called for a ceasefire in the region, an end to the conflict, and the severing of trade relations between Brazil and Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration.
Activist Soraya Misleh, who is of Palestinian origin, has taken part in demonstrations against the conflict since the beginning of the crisis. She described today’s demonstration as historic—broader in scope and bringing together the Palestinian Arab community in Brazil, political parties, and social movements.
“The voices and pleas of the Palestinian people call for international isolation of Israel, similar to what was done against apartheid in South Africa in the 1990s. Right now, we are witnessing a holocaust in Palestine, in Gaza, and a brutal blockade in which Israel is pursuing a ‘final solution’ as part of the ongoing Nakba—a catastrophe that has lasted for more than 77 years,” said the activist, referring to the successive Israeli attacks that have driven the exodus of the Palestinian people.
Creative researcher Cauê Teles attended the event with his 8-year-old son, Guido. “We are here to demand that our government sever ties with Israel, as several other governments, like Colombia, have already done. We cannot continue to support a colonial state that is committing genocide,” said the researcher.
Other Brazilian cities also held marches in support of the Palestinian people.
