Israel intensifies actions in Gaza, leading artists to convene at Together for Palestine event, advocating for survival and justice
In the heart of London, Wembley Arena played host to a powerful declaration of survival and solidarity for Palestinians and their allies. The benefit concert, aptly named "Together for Palestine," was organised by Brian Eno, Tracey Seaward, Khalid Abdalla, and Khaled Ziada.
The concert, which featured global stars like PinkPantheress, Florence Pugh, Louis Theroux, Elyanna, Munroe Bergdorf, and Saint Levant, among others, was a testament to the resilience of the Palestinian people. Adnan Joubran, a Palestinian performer, dedicated his performance to advocating for Palestinian rights and sharing their culture with the world.
The concert was attended by tens of thousands of people, each contributing to a cause that aims to alleviate the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The conflict in Gaza has generated nearly 39 million metric tons of debris, covering more than 22 pounds of rubble per square foot across the territory.
The crisis in Gaza is being called an unprecedented water crisis. Residents are forced to rely on contaminated wells, irregular water trucks, or brackish groundwater that doctors warn will cause kidney failure. The United Nations estimates that over 80% of Gaza's water infrastructure has been damaged.
Israel launched a major ground invasion of Gaza City earlier this week, backed by heavy air strikes, which forced dozens to flee along a single coastal road, joining the hundreds of thousands already displaced.
Palestinian art held center stage during the concert, with Malak Mattar curating a program that included iconic works by Palestinian artists and pieces from younger and emerging artists. The concert aimed to not only raise funds but also to amplify the voices of the Palestinian people and their struggle.
Khalaf, a key organiser of the event, emphasised the need for long-term commitment on a moral and ethical basis, not self-interest or short-term gain. He called for viewing the Palestinian catastrophe as one that has befallen humanity. He also stated that unless they have solid partners committed for the long-term, they will never be able to get what needs to get done in Gaza.
All proceeds from the concert went to Palestinian-led groups working inside Gaza to deliver food, medical supplies, and urgent humanitarian care. These groups include Taawon, the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, and the Palestine Medical Relief Society.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the "Together for Palestine" concert served as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.
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