PICTURES: 'Powerful' Palestinian peace rally in Portlaoise

Hundreds of Laois and Carlow people concerned at the ongoing genocide in Gaza by Israel, marched down Portlaoise Main Street last weekend.

The organisers described their march on Saturday June 21 as "a powerful Palestine peace rally". Full story below photographs by Ahmed Badawy.  Tap NEXT to view gallery.

The protesters gathered at the Laois County Council plaza, hearing an address from Emily Durling Barrett, chairperson
of Laois IPSC, who rallied the crowd with a stirring call to action. The atmosphere was reported by them as "electric" as demonstrators, led by main organiser Jane Hogan and fellow chant leader Aoife Melia, marched through Portlaoise
town waving Palestinian flags and holding banners high. They had support from local spectators, some of whom joined the procession in solidarity.

Following the march, the gathering returned to the County Council plaza for a passionate programme of music and speeches. Moving 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 impassioned speeches by Ammar Salah and Dr. Qasem, who spoke of lived experiences under occupation and the urgent need for international solidarity.

The event was attended by Laois public representatives, including Cllr Tommy Mulligan (LPSC member), Brian Stanley TD, and Sinn Féin Senator Maria McCormack.

Creating a family-friendly atmosphere, refreshments were generously donated by LPSC members, and a popular merchandise stall sold flags, badges, and keffiyehs, with proceeds going to ongoing solidarity efforts. 

The rally began a weekend of activism that also included the ‘Gig for Gaza’ fundraiser at the Anvil Inn in Portarlington on Sunday, June 22. Pics to follow.

Laois IPSC’s next event will be a coffee morning at Portlaoise Parish Centre on July 12, with all funds raised going to support the young players of 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."