MIDDLETOWN, N.Y. — Hundreds of demonstrators marched through Middletown on Sunday to mark the 77th anniversary of the Nakba and call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis and U.S. involvement in Israel’s military campaign.
The protest began at Thrall Park, where about 100 participants gathered before proceeding through downtown, passing City Hall. Organizers criticized Middletown officials for not issuing a resolution supporting a ceasefire. Demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and signs calling for an end to violence and U.S. arms transfers to Israel.
The march was organized by a coalition of more than a dozen local and regional groups, including Rally Middletown, Hudson Valley for Free Palestine, Jewish Voice for Peace Hudson Valley, New Paltz Women in Black, Mid-Hudson Valley DSA, and SUNY BDS. Palestinian-owned restaurant Ziatün in Beacon also co-sponsored the event.
“If we are Americans, we are supposed to support the inalienable rights for all,” said April, a Rally Middletown organizer. “We include not only Americans, but the people of Gaza and Palestine, and all oppressed and vulnerable populations.”
The protest took place amid ongoing violence in Gaza, where Israel’s military actions since October 2023 have drawn widespread international criticism. According to organizers, tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed and basic necessities like food, water, and medicine are being withheld.
Groups unite across causes in call for justice
Participants linked the current conflict in Gaza to broader human rights and civil liberties concerns in the U.S., pointing to rising authoritarianism and increasing restrictions on dissent. Marchers included representatives of groups focused on racial justice, immigrant rights, and anti-war activism.
Signs and chants during the demonstration echoed calls for ending the blockade on Gaza, stopping the killing of civilians, and defending the right to protest. One participant, Amel, held a sign that read, “Free Palestine, Save Gaza,” and said, “I’m here today for the freedom of Palestine, to allow food and water into Gaza, and stop this horrendous war on innocent people.”
“I want the mass extermination of babies and children to end,” another attendee, May, said. “Stop killing innocent children. It’s not complicated.”
No arrests or major incidents were reported during the demonstration. Organizers stated they plan to continue advocating for Gaza and for policy changes in the U.S.