Reading, UK, 31 October 2023 — Continuing with Reading’s proud history of protest for justice, Reading Muslim organised a powerful Emergency Rally For Palestine, held on Sunday 29th October 2023, through Reading’s town centre on Broad Street. The event, held on a weekly basis going forward, was attended by over 300 people with diverse backgrounds, both Muslims and non-Muslims. It draws attention to the urgent need for humanitarian action and calls for our local MPs and councillors to demand the UK to take a stand against war crimes and injustices.
At the time of publishing, 10,053 people have been killed, of which 3,542 are children, and 28,459 people are estimated to be injured or trapped under rubble, of which 6,360 are children.
The figures have been reported by the Palestinian health ministry, Palestine Red Crescent Society and Israeli Medical Services.
The weekly Palestine Rally serves as a testament to the resilience and unity of Reading’s community. As an ongoing event, it creates a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, express their unwavering support for the Palestinian people, and stand up against war crimes. This is intended as a public expression of solidarity, fostering unity and collective action, and rejecting the UK government’s unfettered support for Israel, whatever the cost. UK citizens are loudly and clearly communicating that this cost is egregious, inhumane, and bordering on the territory of genocide.
‘Never again’ should mean exactly that. Never again.
Previous Event Highlights:
Date: Sunday 29th October 2023
Time: 12pm
Location: Broad Street, Reading
Admission: Free and open to the public
Upcoming Events Highlights:
Date: Sunday 5th November 2023, and every Sunday thereafter
Time: 1:30pm
Location: Broad Street, Reading
Admission: Free and open to the public
At each weekly rally, attendees have the opportunity to participate in peaceful demonstrations, listen to inspiring speakers, and engage in activities aimed at deepening their understanding of the Palestinian cause. These gatherings provide an ongoing platform for Reading’s community to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and demand justice.
Imtiaz Chowdhury, Chairman of Reading Muslim, emphasised the importance of the weekly rallies, stating, “The weekly Palestine Rally symbolises our unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and humanity. We, as a community, are determined to make our voices heard and to demand humanitarian action. Our actions are not just in line with the teachings of the Quran, which call for Muslims to stand up for justice, but also our duty as concerned citizens of the world.”
“O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives. Be they rich or poor, Allah is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate ˹from justice˺. If you distort the testimony or refuse to give it, then ˹know that˺ Allah is certainly All-Aware of what you do.”
[Quran, 4:135]
Reading Muslim’s weekly rallies also provide valuable opportunities to educate the community about the faith of Islam and how it can be a unifying force, bringing people together for a common cause. It is a testament to the power of community and how, together, individuals can create change and raise awareness about pressing global issues.
The organisation encourages all members of the community to join these weekly rallies, learn more about the situation in Palestine, and work together to foster positive change. Reading Muslim looks forward to the involvement of local MPs and councillors in demanding humanitarian actions and standing up for justice.
For additional information about the weekly Palestine Rally and future initiatives, please visit https://readingmuslim.uk or contact [email protected].
About Reading Muslim:
Reading Muslim is a Reading-based community organisation dedicated to promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among the diverse Muslim population in the Reading area. They engage in various social, educational, and charitable activities to contribute positively to the local community. Registered charity number 1061208 in England & Wales.
Media Contact:
Reading Muslim
[email protected]