A silent protest has been organised for Derry’s historic walls on Christmas morning to show solidarity with Palestinian Christians living in Bethlehem.
Organised by the Derry Anti-War Coalition, it is the latest in a number of initiatives in the city to support people suffering in Palestine through the continuing war. The SDLP has also announced plans to formally twin Derry with Bethlehem to show support for Palestinians.
A spokesman for the organisers of the silent walk on the walls – which talks place at 10am at Shipquay Gate – said it would send solidarity to Palestine.
“Join us at Shipquay Gate as we walk the walls or our siege city to remember those living under a truly barbaric siege in Gaza right now. Here the church bells ring out as we walk to remember,” he said.
In a separate development, SDLP councillor Catherine McDaid has announced plans to have Derry formally twinned with Bethlehem. Ms McDaid said intends bringing a proposal before Derry and Strabane council in January.
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Ms McDaid told a meeting of the council that it was right that a “city of civil rights” should stand against the ongoing war.
“Bethlehem, the city internationally recognised as the birthplace of Jesus, has cancelled its Christmas celebrations in solidarity with its Palestinian brothers and sisters. We can show our solidarity by starting the process to become twin cities with Bethlehem and I plan to bring a motion to that effect in January,” she said.
