LONDON: Dozens of people gathered in London for the second Picnic for Palestine, which was organized by UK-based Friends of Al-Aqsa.
The initiative was launched to raise awareness of “The Nakba,” also known as the Palestinian catastrophe, and promote an increase in pro-Palestinian action in the UK.
“Due to Israel’s severe restrictions on Palestinian freedom of movement, many Palestinians cannot meet to enjoy even the simple pleasure of picnicking with friends and family,” said FOA — an NGO concerned with defending the human rights of Palestinians and protecting the Al-Aqsa Sanctuary.
“FOA hopes that the #PicnicsForPalestine initiative will raise awareness of Israel’s ongoing Nakba against Palestinians and inspire increased activism for Palestine across the UK,” it added in a statement.
The organization is calling on the public to hold picnics for Palestine during this summer to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, and the initiative is set to run until Aug. 31.
“So grab your loved ones and head to any green space (it could even be your garden) as a show of your support for a free Palestine where Palestinians can enjoy picnics whenever they like, just as we can,” it said.
FOA also said that it would send “Palestine Picnic Pack” to those planning a picnic by registering via their website, which would include a Palestinian flag and flag bunting, badges, a poster, quiz sheet, stickers and information booklets.
“Picnics with friends and family is a pleasure we definitely take for granted,” said Shamiul Joarder, head of public affairs at FOA.
“Palestinians cannot enjoy this due to Israel’s severe restrictions on Palestinian freedom of movement. Let’s use our privilege to take meaningful action for Palestine this summer and host a picnic in solidarity to kick start a summer of BDS (boycott, divestment and sanctions) campaigns to hold Israel to account,” he added.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment toward BDS this summer, including the targeting of sportswear manufacturer Puma, one of the main sponsors of the Israeli Football Association. According to Human Rights Watch, the IFA includes teams in Israel’s illegal settlements on occupied Palestinian land.
Those at the event also looked at ways to campaign against the UK government’s new bill which is aimed at banning local councils from launching boycotts of Israeli products.
