Call for Circles of Silence on Nakba Day

Together with other Pax Christi International Sections, Pax Christi England and Wales is calling for Circles of Silence on or near Saturday 15th May.

May 15th is Nakba Day, when we remember the forced displacement of 750,000 Palestinians after the Israeli Declaration of Independence on 14th May 1948. These families became refugees and have never been allowed the right of return to their own homes. Many still live in refugee camps within the West Bank or in surrounding countries. That time is known as the 'Nakba' or 'Catastrophe'.

Since 1967, and the Six Day War, Israel has maintained military control of what remained of Palestine, has colonised these Occupied Territories through Israeli settlements (declared illegal under international law), has taken more land, destroyed Palestinian homes and villages, has displaced Bedouin Communities and regularly uses excessive violence against the Palestinian population.

It is important that we recognise the injustices and violations of international law that took place in 1948, 1967 and in the on-going Nakba of today. We pray and work for justice for ALL in Palestine and Israel.

Pax Christi, England and Wales, invites you to be part of a global Circle of Silence in whatever way is possible for you by:

- lighting a candle and spending time in personal silence;
- joining with others in your family, Community, School or Parish to spend time in silence;
- holding a Circle of Silence (Silent Vigil) in your local community;
- holding an online vigil;
- taking a photo with you holding a peace message for Palestine - that we can put on social media.

Please send photos and messages to: annfarr46@gmail.com . These will be forwarded to Palestine.