Media Release: Aboriginal-Palestinian solidarity grows as protestors gather for 9th rally

8 December 2023 – for immediate release

Author and academic Tony Birch will address Melbourne’s ninth pro-Palestine rally since the beginning of the Gaza crisis on Sunday, underscoring the deepening ties between the Aboriginal and Palestinian communities.

Birch, who occupies the Boisbouvier Chair in Australian Literature, joins several indigenous leaders including Gary Foley and Lidia Thorpe in addressing Free Palestine Melbourne rallies in the past two months. 

“The Palestinians have always been there for us. It will be a great honour to stand with them in their time of need,” he said.

Last month, Birch signed a statement of solidarity with the Palestinians, which condemned the Australian government’s “gross moral failure” regarding the Gaza crisis.

“Indigenous solidarity is extremely important to us,” said Muayad Ali of Free Palestine Melbourne. “When Aboriginal leaders tell us that they understand our pain, and support our struggle for freedom and dignity, it reminds us that the people of this country are better than their politicians.”

Greens Senator Janet Rice and Secretary of the Victorian Trades Hall Council Luke Hilakari will also speak at the rally.

The rally will begin at 12pm in front of the State Library with speeches. The crowd will then march to Parliament, in cooperation with Victoria Police, where more speeches will be held.

For interviews and commentary contact info@fpmelbourne.org