Derry activist Mary Durkan sheds some light on Irish solidarity with Palestine

In a recent interview with Mary Durkan, an activist with the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) in Derry, a fervent picture of solidarity with Palestine emerged.

Mary, deeply involved in the movement, highlighted the significant strides made by Derry's IPSC and the community at large in advocating for Palestinian rights.

The interview began with Mary's acknowledgment of the heightened awareness catalysed by the ongoing genocide in Palestine.
She expressed enthusiasm over the increased engagement of individuals, both young and old, in activities such as the recent ‘moonlit dip,’ indicative of a growing momentum within the community.

Mary emphasized the impactful initiatives undertaken by Derry's IPSC, notably the successful petition initiated by Catherine Hutton urging Irish politicians to boycott trips to the St. Patrick’s celebrations in Washington.

She recounted the touching children's vigil held on World Children's Day, where young bilingual voices resonated with calls for justice alongside music and shared words.

“The energy and determination of the people involved in the movement are palpable. It's inspiring to see such passion for justice,” Durkan remarked.

The heart of the conversation lay in the collective resolve to continue the struggle for Palestinian liberation.

Mary spoke passionately about the grassroots efforts to implement the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, citing the removal of Puma products from O’Neill’s stores across Ireland as a significant victory, originating from the action taken by Derry IPSC.

“We take hope from these small wins, knowing that each action contributes to the larger cause of justice for Palestine,” Mary affirmed.

As Derry screened the Irish premiere of 'Freedom to Run,' a film documenting Scottish marathon runners' journey in the Bethlehem Marathon, Mary reiterated the city's unwavering commitment to Palestinian solidarity.

“Derry's solidarity with Palestine runs deep, rooted in a history of resistance against injustice,” she remarked proudly.

A New Year’s Eve vigil for Palestine on the Peace Bridge.

Mary underscored the importance of amplifying Palestinian voices and exposing the realities of apartheid firsthand, drawing parallels between Derry's historical resilience and the ongoing struggle for justice.

“This time last year when I was in Palestine, I witnessed the resilience of a people living under oppression. It's a reminder of the importance of standing in solidarity,” Mary reflected.

The Séanfhocal that decorates a wall at the Aida Refugee Camp.

“Written on the wall of the Bethlehem refugee camp Aida, along with a gym called Aclaí meaning exercise in Irish, is the saying ‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine,’ which translates literally as ‘People live in each other's shadows.”

Mary continued noting it to be her favourite proverb. One that speaks to community in every sense.

If you would like to contact Míċeál-Piaras please email: moceallaigh01@stmarys-belfast.ac.uk.