Swindon Palestine Solidarity announces upcoming events

Swindon Palestine Solidarity continues to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and for aid to be allowed to enter Gaza.

The organisation says its three recent roadside sign actions have generated many positive responses and are an effective way to keep people talking about what is happening in Gaza, and that these actions will be one of the many ways in which SPS will continue to campaign. 

On Thursday 12 June from 6-9pm, all are welcome to come and join in with Stitched in Solidarity, a free sewing workshop at the Bangladesh Centre, County Road, SN1 2EW. 

Participants can stitch a leaf with their messages of solidarity or just add their name. The leaves will be added to the large olive tree on the banner, which will be used in protests and public exhibitions. Stitched in Solitarity is billed as a great way for people to add their voices, especially for those who can’t attend protests, but want to be a part of the movement. 

A free place can be reserved on Eventbrite or by emailing [email protected]

SPS has also called for a local march in Swindon on Saturday 14 June at 1.30pm, starting at Regent Circus. 

A spokesperson said: "The narrative from politicians and journalists is shifting. It’s really important to keep up the pressure and to let them know that we want the people of Gaza to have the food, water, shelter and medical aid that they need. 

"Thousands of them are in immediate danger of starving to death. We demand a ceasefire. Our government should not be sending arms. We previously had 1000 people protesting in Swindon and want the next local protest to be even bigger. 

"We are being joined by members of the local mosques, so let’s show our solidarity with the Palestinian people.’

A coach has been booked to take supporters to the next London protest on 21 June, leaving Swindon at 8am and returning at approximately 7.30pm. 

The spokesperson said: "There were over 500,000 people at the last national protest for Palestine in London. It was noticeable that directly after that march was when the narrative about the plight of the Palestinians started to change. The next London march needs to be even bigger." 

To reserve a seat on the coach, people can go to Eventbrite or email [email protected]  There is a charge of £13.70 per person, but people can donate more to help cover the subsidised seats. Those who wish to come but cannot afford a seat are asked to get in touch with Swindon Palestine Solidarity.

The spokesperson said: "We know there is a lot of support for Palestine in Swindon. Hundreds of people have honked their horns and put their thumbs up during our roadside actions. If you aren’t already involved in anything to show support for the people of Palestine, why not come along to a march, either locally or nationally? 

"If marching isn’t for you, you can join the stitching event or a roadside sign action, follow us on social media, join our WhatsApp groups, help fundraise or organise, come to a film night or talk. 

"You can see, sign and share articles, petitions and actions. It all puts the pressure on for the positive changes so many of us want to see. Our charity quiz and meal last week raised over £900 for GINA (Gaza Infant Nutrition Alliance) which works to establish a continuous milk supply and education for breastfeeding support where it is most needed. Starving mothers are struggling to keep their newborn babies alive. 

"There are so many ways to get involved, we urge everyone to ‘Do Something!’