The NSW Police’s decision to withdraw its application to prohibit this Sunday’s Sydney Palestine rally is an excellent outcome for the democratic right to protest, and for the Palestinian solidarity movement, according to the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN).
Successful negotiations between protest organiser, the Palestine Action Group Sydney, and NSW Police have resulted in Sunday’s rally being permitted along an amended route, and Monday’s vigil proceeding without the need for a permit.
This outcome underscores the resilience of grassroots activism and reaffirms the fundamental principle that the right to protest is essential and must not be compromised by political agendas.
This is particularly the case as the one-year anniversary of Israel’s genocide in Gaza approaches, and Australian Government action to help end this genocide and Israel’s escalating violence across the Arab world grows ever more critical.
APAN applauds the community’s unwavering commitment to peacefully and powerfully advocating for justice for Palestine.
Comments attributed to APAN President Nasser Mashni:
“The withdrawal of the ban on this rally is not just a victory for the Palestinian solidarity movement; it is a resounding affirmation of our fundamental right to protest, especially as the Australian community stands against Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza.
“This outcome is a testament to the strength of grassroots activism and negotiation, proving that when communities unite for justice, their voices cannot be silenced by political maneuvering.
“As we approach the grim anniversary of Israel’s brutal genocide in Gaza, it is imperative that we rally together, unflinchingly demanding accountability and action from the Australian Government to end this rogue state’s atrocity crimes.”