While Israel’s offensive on Gaza may have temporarily paused, demonstrations of solidarity with the Palestinian people persist. This sentiment was evident not only in recent protests at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade but also in the latest act of civil disobedience orchestrated by Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP).
On the afternoon of November 26, over 1,000 pro-Palestinian Jews strategically blocked the Manhattan Bridge from the Manhattan side, with many participants ready to face arrest as a form of protest. This action served as a follow-up to the highly visible occupation of Grand Central Station a month prior.
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A member of Left Voice, actively involved in the demonstration, noted the participation of several members of the UAW at Columbia University, including herself. This reflects the broader engagement of students and university faculty in the movement, underscoring the potential for organized workers to align their struggles as union members with broader movements against oppression, such as the ongoing push for Palestinian liberation.
The collaboration between diverse groups in this civil disobedience action highlights the intersectionality of contemporary social justice movements. As individuals from different backgrounds, professions, and affiliations unite in these protests, it emphasizes the collective effort toward a common goal – advocating for the rights and liberation of the Palestinian people.
The demonstration on the Manhattan Bridge, marked by its scale and commitment, symbolizes the ongoing resilience of those advocating for justice and equality. The involvement of university faculty and students, as well as organized workers, suggests a growing synergy between various social justice causes, presenting an opportunity for a more unified and impactful movement against oppression.
