Walsall Kobar Friendship Association presented this year’s Salaam Festival at the New Art Gallery. This was a celebration of Palestinian culture and of the people’s resolve to remain on their land in the face of Israel’s determination to be rid of them.
Sumud Palestine has been warmed and encouraged by the friendship of members of Walsall Kobar and Mohammed Mukhaimer and his family and I enjoyed sharing the day. The Sumud Palestine table top exhibition prompted some participants to sponsor an olive tree and there was dance, music and poetry. Overshadowing the event was the Israeli bombardment of Gaza. Palestinians told of family and friends lost during the previous onslaught, Operation Case Lead, and of their fear for them as once again Gaza is blitzed.
Angela