A powerful demonstration of solidarity with the people of Palestine took place in Portlaoise yesterday.
Organisers say that hundreds of people gathered for a Peace Rally organised by the Laois and Carlow branches of the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC).
The event, held at the Laois County Council plaza, brought together a large and spirited crowd calling for peace, justice, and freedom for Palestine.
The rally began with an address from Emily Durling Barrett, chairperson of Laois IPSC, who rallied the crowd with a call to action.
Then, led by main organiser Jane Hogan and fellow chant leader Aoife Melia, the group marched through Portlaoise town waving Palestinian flags and holding banners.
Following the march, the gathering returned to the County Council plaza for a programme of music and speeches.
Musical performances were delivered by Jimi Cullen and Ned Byrne, whose songs of resistance and unity resonated deeply with the crowd.
The voices of Palestine were then brought forward through speeches by Ammar Salah and Dr Qasem, who spoke of lived experiences and stressed the urgent need for international solidarity.
The event was well attended by public representatives, including Councillor Tommy Mulligan (LPSC member), Brian Stanley TD, and Senator Maria McCormack, who stood in support of the rally’s message and aims.
Refreshments were donated by LPSC members, and a merchandise stall sold flags, badges, and keffiyehs, with proceeds going to ongoing solidarity efforts.
The day was documented by photographer Ahmed Badawy, whose images are featured throughout this article
The rally followed a weekend of activism that also included the ‘Gig for Gaza’ fundraiser at the Anvil Inn in Portarlington today.
Laois IPSC’s next event will be a coffee morning at Portlaoise Parish Centre on July 12, with all funds raised going to support GAA Palestine’s upcoming tour of Ireland.
Organisers expressed heartfelt thanks to all attendees, volunteers, speakers, and performers for helping to make the event such a strong and peaceful show of support for Palestine.
